The TVR Griffith is possibly the most important British sports car since the Jaguar E-type. If it had failed, the future of TVR would have been uncertain. But it didn’t and TVR has gone on to build some of the world’s fastest and most uncompromising sports cars.

Powered by a high-performance Rover V8 the early 4 litre cars produced 240bhp, respectable in a car weighing just 2,340lb. But that was only the start: soon the engine grew to 4.3 litres and power leapt to 280bhp. Aware that owners craved still more power TVR offered a BV (big valve) version, squeezing 300bhp from the 4.3 litre. With small numbers of the BV version produced they have become highly sought after and represent an almost depreciation-proof investment.

With sales of more than 700 cars in just two years TVR now had the resources to deliver the ultimate Griffith, the 500. Powered by a 5 litre V8 and developing a lusty 340bhp these cars were capable of reaching 100mph in less time than most cars take to hit 60mph.

Despite changes to the Griffith engine, the car’s styling has remained almost unchanged. This means early cars still look fresh faced and are good value, as they can be had for as little as £12,000. But spending a couple of grand more will get you into a post-1994 Griffith 500.

TVR technology is more track car than road car, with weight reduced through the use of composite bodies and tubular steel chassis. With this in mind power steering was deemed a luxury and was not even an option until 1994. Air-conditioning was also considered a little “girlie” by the boys at the factory, and with customers having to pay extra, large numbers of cars left the factory without it.

But the Griffith 500 is not about luxury it’s about power. The burble and pop from the engine as you change down through the gears on the overrun will have you grinning from ear to ear. Accelerate hard in second and you will laugh like a banshee. Short of riding a racehorse blindfolded through a forest there are few experiences that can both delight and terrify as much.

When you’re buying a used TVR Griffith the list of items to check runs to several pages, so unless you have already owned a TVR my advice is to buy from a TVR dealer. They should check the car over thoroughly and provide a comprehensive warranty.

The most common faults are with the electrics, so check windows, mirrors, alarms and gauges as all are prone to failure or problems. The hoods are also susceptible to water leaks although it can be difficult to spot as most cars are garaged. Engines and gearboxes are strong but check oil pressure, which should sit between 25lb and 30lb when the engine is warm. Any smoking from the exhaust is a bad sign, as is a lumpy idle. With big disc brakes all round and only 2,340lb to halt, brake wear is not particularly high.

TVR customers were able to specify any colour they wanted for their new car and many went wild, so watch out for loud body and trim combinations and don’t buy anything hoping that the colour will grow on you — it won’t.

CHECK IT OUT
Traction control Not available, the car makes do with a limited slip differential
Engine Should idle at 1000rpm
Air-conditioning An option on Griffith 500 only
Stone chips All TVR noses are prone, no chips could be a sign of repair after accident damage
Oil pressure Should be 25-30lb when warm
Power steering Optional on Griffith 500 and not available on pre-1994 cars
Brakes Big discs but no ABS option. Check for judder and pulling to one side
Seats Leather upholstery was standard, but high-mileage cars might require re-Connollising
Exhaust Early cars may be "de-catted" for more performance
Heated front seats An option since 1994
Insurance Group 20 but limited mileage can reduce premium
Chassis Check plastic coating is intact or it can lead to rust

VITAL STATISTICS
Model TVR Griffith 500
Engine V8, 4988cc
Power 340bhp @ 5500rpm
Transmission Five-speed manual
Fuel 22.1mpg (combined)
Acceleration 0 to 62mph: 4.8sec
Top speed 167mph


THE ONE TO BUY
1996 N-reg with 60,000 miles and full TVR service history. Pay £17,595 at a dealer or £14,500 from a private seller

OR FOR SIMILAR MONEY ...
1999 S-reg BMW Z3 M Coupé
1997 P-reg Morgan Plus 8 4.6
1996 N-reg Lotus Esprit GT3
1990 H-reg Porsche 911 Carrera 4 cabriolet
1982 Y-reg Ferrari 308 GTB QV

VALUES TVR Griffith 500
Mileage 30,000
1994 L Trade £13,200. Retail £17,650
1996 N Trade £14,850. Retail £19,350
1998 S Trade £17,350. Retail £21,750

Mileage 40,000
1994 L Trade £12,650. Retail £17,150
1996 N Trade £14,250. Retail £18,695
1998 S Trade £16,650. Retail £21,000

Mileage 60,000
1994 L Trade £11,600. Retail £16,095
1996 N Trade £13,100. Retail £17,595
1998 S Trade £15,350. Retail £19,695

Source: estimates based on confidential CAP black book prices. 'Trade' is what a dealer would pay to buy your car; 'retail' is what you would pay a dealer