TVR 2500M

TVR 2500M 1976 Earls Court Motor-Show Car (registered Feb 1977)

Despite best intentions and some progress. I have conceded that it is unlikely I will find the time to restore my TVR. and so. regrettably. it is available for sale.

 It is a genuine low mileage (61K) car and has been in my ownership (5 previously) since 1988 and dry stored for the past 20 years. It will require sympathetic restoration but not chassis replacement. Details are as follows;

This TVR was displayed by the factory on their stand at the Motor Show in 1976 and it is therefore a significant part of TVR history. Choosing a 2500M for display made sense. since at the time the American market was extremely important to the company and many TVRs with the federalised. emission-controlled Triumph TR6 engine were sold in USA.

The Motor Show car was unusual in certain respects.   Although fitted with the federalised Triumph engine and running gear. it was right-hand drive and carried several other distinguishing features. To display the independent suspension to best advantage the suspension wishbones were nickel plated and this remains a feature which can be seen today (see photographs). In addition the seats were unique and covered in a combination of tan cloth and vinyl and this can also be seen in the photographs. The car was finished in metallic racing green with contrasting tan vinyl roof. which included a matching sun roof. a very attractive colour combination.

As with any older TVR a key factor is condition of the chassis. Fortunately the car's underside and chassis was regularly saturated with rust preventing oil and this included the felt pad which sits atop the differential cage and on which the rear body is located. Over time. when saturated with water this pad often causes significant corrosion. In this car the felt pad was saturated with wax/oil so preventing water ingress and subsequent corrosion problems. The chassis is therefore well preserved and restoration need not involve removal of the body from the chassis. The original bonnet carrier and hinges have been replaced with the improved stainless steel version provided by Adrian Venn that includes quickly detachable hinges – which makes removing the bonnet a simple process.

Similarly. an Adrian Venn large capacity radiator has been fitted.  

The engine has had its emission gear removed (stored and available). The Stromberg carburettors have been replaced with a (Burlen Services) reconditioned pair of 1-3/4 SUs. which were correctly set up by Sigma engineering. A six-branch rapid extraction sports exhaust manifold has been mated to a high quality (straight through) stainless exhaust system.  

Gearbox is a TR6 item with overdrive operating on the gearlever knob. The rear diff is TR6.

The interior is largely unmolested and includes the original equipment radio-cassette. All instruments are present although the steering column has had its lock removed. Headlining is good. Vinyl roof and Sunroof will require recovering. The rear tinted window is in excellent condition but presently not fitted. A new set of carpets comes with the car.

The fibreglass body is very sound. with few crazes and the bonnet is a particularly good fit. T slot wheels are present but will require restoration and fitment of the correct tyres (185/14). A set of (4) new matt black fibre-glass bumpers/overiders is included in the sale.  

 The true worth of M series TVRs in terms of style and driving pleasure is at last beginning to be realised and this historic TVR is an excellent candidate for a fairly straightforward restoration. which if carried out sympathetically. will result in a superb sports car while also providing an excellent investment.  

If you require further information please contact me on 01722 716634 – after 6 pm. Viewing is available at any time by appointment before the end of the auction. Obviously the car is not running so will need to be removed on a trailer. Delivery is possible within England and Wales – please email with your postcode for a quote. Overseas buyers are welcome but please make contact before bidding and make sure you have the means to transport the vehicle home.

Payment is either cash on collection or direct bank transfer. There is no buy it now price and the auction will be allowed to run to the end.

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