TVR’S WINNING WEDGES
TVR is about to unveil a new model, but what effect will this have on values of existing models?
‘Today’s market is a good-value one’
With a new model from the revived TVR about to be launched at the Goodwood Revival, interest in earlier TVRs should see an increase as a result. Not just the 1990s models either, but those of the 1960s and 1970s – proper sports cars that appealed to those looking for something more akin to a Lotus than a Jaguar or an MG.
Today’s TVR market is a goodvalue one – 1960s and 1970s cars were reasonably well built ( bar, some might argue, the electrics), much as Reliant Scimitars were, while reliable mechanicals mean that properly sorted ones can provide regular enjoyment.
Later cars suffered from a more hit-and-miss approach to construction, so would-be owners need to exercise caution.
The good starting point is that prices are sensible across the decades – Charterhouse’s February sale saw a reasonable 1997 Chimaera 4.0 sell for £11,220 – that’s similar-condition Triumph Stag money.
March saw three Cerberas away. A 2000 Speed Six made £15,120 at Historics and another 2000 car at Barons reached £18,500. A 1996 models pulled £14,625 at H&H.
Buyers often have to be patient for something older, but one lucky buyer secured a 1978 Taimar for £10,500 at Barons’ April sale.
The 1980s wedge-shaped cars tend to inhabit a group on their own, but a choice of bodystyles and engine sizes puts prices all over the place. In May, Morris Leslie’s 1987 350 was bought well at £4929 and the following month Classic Car Auctions replied with a same-year 350i that made £4900.
To some would-be owners, the best combination of looks, power and usability – along with perceived better build quality – lies with the V8S models, Brightwells selling a 1991 car in June for £10,000. Barons sold a slightly scruffy S3 for £5390.
More recently, Brightwells’ Modern Classsics sale’s reasonable 1990 S3 made £6710.
Often overlooked as many intending British sports car owners seek out the more predictable MG and Triumph choices, TVRs of all ages offer excellent value for money and a wealth of specialists mean that long-term custodianship shouldn’t be a difficult experience.
The marque’s imminent revival means that there could be an interest uplift in previous models too.