TVR 280 Coupe 2.8 i (150 Hp)
Overall Rating
TVR 280:
The TVR Griffith, later models being referred to as the Griffith 500, is a sports car designed and built by TVR, starting production in 1990, and ending production in 2002. As part of a 2017 attempt at reviving the TVR brand, a new generation Griffith was presented but never entered production.
The TVR Griffith 200 was produced from 1963 to 1964 and the TVR Griffith 400 from 1964 to 1967.
Like its forerunner namesakes, the Griffith 200 and Griffith 400, the modern Griffith was a lightweight ) fiberglass-bodied, 2-door, 2-seat sports car with a V8 engine. Originally, it used a 4. 0 L 240 hp Rover V8 engine, but that could be optionally increased to 4. 3 L 280 hp in 1992 with a further option of big-valve cylinder heads. In 1993, with a TVR-developed 5. 0 L 340 hp version of the Rover V8 became available. All versions of the Griffith use the Lucas Industries 14CUX engine management system. All models use a five-speed manual transmission from Rover and TREMEC....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Coupe Overview:
TVR 280 (Coupe). A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 0 makes it ideal for daily use.
As a vehicle from the 1980s, the TVR 280 Coupe predates modern safety standards and Euro NCAP testing. It lacks contemporary safety features like airbags, ABS, or advanced driver-assistance systems, offering minimal crash protection by today's measures.
2.8 i (150 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The 2.8-liter Ford Cologne V6, with 150 Hp, provided spirited performance for the lightweight 280 Coupe, offering a lively and engaging driving experience characteristic of TVR's focus on driver involvement.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is modest by modern standards, typical for an early-80s naturally aspirated V6. Expect around 20-25 MPG (imperial) under mixed driving conditions, with spirited driving significantly reducing this.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Distinctive and timeless wedge styling
- • Engaging and raw driving experience
- • Reliable Ford Cologne V6 engine
- • Exclusivity and classic British sports car appeal
- • Good power-to-weight ratio for its era
Cons:
- • Variable build quality and electrical issues common to TVRs
- • Lack of modern safety features and crash protection
- • Limited practicality with small interior and boot space
- • Potentially challenging parts availability for specific TVR components
- • Firm ride and limited comfort for long journeys
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | TVR |
| Model: | 280 |
| Generation: | Coupe |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.8 i (150 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1984 |
| End of production: | 1987 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 150 Hp |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |











Fuel, speed, and comfort: How does the TVR 280 rank in your book?