Classic Car Wiki

Introduction to TVR

TVR is a British car manufacturer renowned for producing powerful, lightweight sports cars with radical styling and no-nonsense driving dynamics. Founded in the mid-20th century, TVR built a cult following for its commitment to performance, its fearless engineering approach, and its refusal to conform to industry norms. Though its history includes periods of financial struggle, TVR remains one of the most iconic names in British automotive culture.

Founding and Early Years (1947–1958)

TVR was founded in 1947 in Blackpool, England, by Trevor Wilkinson. The name “TVR” was derived from his first name — Trevor — by removing the vowels. Originally called Trevcar Motors, the company was soon renamed TVR Engineering.

First Creations

TVR’s early work involved chassis development and custom-built cars based on existing mechanicals. In 1953, the first true TVR — the TVR No. 1 — was completed, featuring a tubular chassis and Ford components. It set the tone for the brand’s lightweight philosophy.

TVR Grantura and Growth (1958–1965)

In 1958, TVR launched the Grantura, its first production model, built around a tubular steel frame with fiberglass bodywork and independent suspension.

Grantura Characteristics

• Offered with a variety of engines (MG, Coventry Climax, Ford).
• Exported mainly to the United States.
• Lightweight, simple, and track-friendly.

US Market and Griffith

American dealer Jack Griffith fitted a Ford V8 into the Grantura chassis, resulting in the Griffith 200 and later the Griffith 400. These brutal muscle sports cars were TVR’s first entry into the high-performance league.

Turmoil and Transition (1965–1980)

The 1960s and ’70s saw frequent changes in management and ownership. TVR was purchased by Arthur and Martin Lilley in the mid-1960s, and the company began to stabilize under their leadership.

TVR Vixen and M Series

• TVR Vixen – Introduced in 1967 with a Ford 1600 engine, a more refined evolution of the Grantura.
• TVR M Series (1972–1979) – Included models such as the 1600M, 2500M, and 3000M. These featured a new steel backbone chassis and improved refinement.

Performance and Reputation

TVRs of this era gained popularity for their aggressive styling, good power-to-weight ratio, and affordability compared to rivals like Lotus and Porsche.

TVR Under Peter Wheeler (1981–2004)

In 1981, TVR was purchased by chemical engineer and car enthusiast Peter Wheeler, whose leadership would define the brand’s rebellious and uncompromising identity.

Wheeler-Era TVRs

Wheeler introduced a new generation of TVRs that were more powerful, more extreme, and more original than ever before. Under his leadership, TVR designed its own engines and pushed the boundaries of styling and engineering.

Notable Models

• TVR Tasmin / 280i – Introduced in 1980 with wedge styling and Ford V6 power.
• TVR S Series – Retro-inspired roadsters with V6 and V8 engines.
• TVR Griffith (1991) – A modern muscle car with a TVR-tuned Rover V8 engine; helped revive the brand in the 1990s.
• TVR Chimaera – A grand touring roadster with soft lines and V8 power, suitable for everyday driving.
• TVR Cerbera – A 2+2 coupe featuring TVR’s own AJP8 engine; fast, loud, and raw.
• TVR Tuscan – Bold and exotic, the Tuscan became famous after appearing in the film Gone in 60 Seconds.
• TVR Sagaris – Perhaps the most outrageous TVR ever built, featuring extreme aerodynamics and track-ready focus.

In-House Engine Development

TVR developed its own engines during this era, including the Speed Six (inline-6) and AJP V8. These engines provided massive performance but were notorious for unreliability and lack of emissions compliance.

Collapse and Ownership Changes (2004–2013)

In 2004, TVR was sold by Peter Wheeler to Russian investor Nikolai Smolensky. The company struggled with quality control, regulatory issues, and global competition. Production slowed and eventually stopped.

Factory Closure

In 2006, TVR closed its Blackpool factory. The brand essentially went dormant, though Smolensky made several unsuccessful attempts to restart production using updated versions of older models.

The TVR Revival (2013–Present)

In 2013, a new British consortium led by businessman Les Edgar acquired the rights to the TVR brand. Their goal was to resurrect the company with modern manufacturing and global ambition.

New TVR Griffith (2024)

In 2017, TVR announced the rebirth of the Griffith, designed in collaboration with Gordon Murray Design. The new Griffith features:

• Carbon fiber chassis using iStream manufacturing
• 5.0L naturally aspirated Cosworth-tuned V8
• Manual transmission
• Classic front-engine, rear-drive layout

After several delays, the car is scheduled to enter production in 2024 in a new facility in Wales.

Legacy of TVR

TVR is celebrated for its fearless approach to car design — no driver aids, no compromise, just raw performance. It delivered some of the most exciting, visceral sports cars ever produced in Britain. Though often temperamental, TVRs are adored by purists and collectors for their uniqueness and drama.

Collector Appeal

Classic models like the Griffith 500, Chimaera, Cerbera, and Sagaris have become modern collectibles. Their aggressive design, high power-to-weight ratios, and rarity make them coveted on the enthusiast market.

Conclusion

TVR’s history is one of bold ideas, passionate leadership, and a love for thrilling driving experiences. While often troubled by finances and quality issues, the company’s cars continue to inspire loyalty and awe. As TVR looks to return with a new Griffith, fans hope the brand can once again deliver the raw, unapologetic sports cars that made it famous.