1987 TVR 280i Convertible
with only 11,400 original miles!
This particular model, the 280i, was orginially introduced as part of the Tasmin series, which debuted in 1980 on the world automotive stage. The Tasmin was first introduced in the US in 1983 and then in 1984, the "280i" designation took over, indicating the 2.8 litre engine size. TVR pulled out of the US market in early 1987, and because of that, only 7 US-spec 280is were produced that year, and this car being offered is number 4 of those 7 cars.
The 280i, as with all TVRs, was built by hand at the Bristol Avenue factory in Blackpool, and incorporated hand-laid fiberglass body placed on a strong tubular steel chassis with 4-wheel independent suspension. This particular example was completed in January 1987 and was finished in Alpine White with red leather interior and a tan canvas top. The three-position top features a hard center targa section that removes and stores in the trunk. When fully retracted, you can enjoy the benefits of a full convertible. This car also had the rather rare (in the US) factory option of power assisted steering and carried a price tag, when new, of $30,555.00.
First Full Check and Service
Full drivetrain inspection, full check and service of the brake system, suspension, tires, engine, cooling system, belts, hoses, fluid, etc. The fuel lines between the twin fuel tanks were replaced, the tanks were drained of old fuel, and replaced with clean fuel. The oil and filter were changed, and the gear shift lever bushings in the transmission were both missing or worn, and were subsequently replaced. All faulty wiring and grounds were repaired or replaced as needed.
Second Service
Detected a leaking brake booster, so a new servo unit was installed along with a new master cylinder. New steering column bushing at the firewall as fitted, as were new plastic door clips inside each door. Fuel mixture and idle speed on the fuel injection were set to specification and it was determined that the warm up regulator appeared to be sticking.
Third Service
Featured replacement of the warmup regulator, adjustment of the valves and new valve cover gasket, new throttle cable. Loose fuel filler neck was detected along with cracked vent hose. Each were removed and replaced.
Spring 2007
New air conditioning system, built by Vintage Air and well known in the street rod industry, replaced the original system.
Fall 2007
The car was given its annual Virginia state inspection and a full service once again. Also, the felt liner in the window track in both doors was replaced with new liner.
The comfortable and accommodating leather interior is in excellent condition (except for a small quarter-sized hole in the carpet in front of the driver's seat) and all the interior woodwork has recently been refinished. It also has custom TVR-logo carpet overmats on the floor. The car comes with a custom tailored indoor car cover, all available service records, owners manuals, and a custom-made owner's portfolio in which you can keep all your records.
The reason I am selling this car is that I have recently finished redoing another 280i so this one needs to find a new home where it will continue to be enjoyed.
This is a car you won't see passing you going the other way as you drive. Despite the car's very low mileage, any necessary services have always been performed to make sure the car is dependable. The car has received the best of care under its present owner and is ready to be enjoyed.
Where else, can you find a completely hand-built, limited production sportscar for such a modest investment of only $11,450.00? Don't wait. Sure, you can buy these for less money, but by the time you finish bringing a cheaper one up to where you want it, you'll have more than that invested. Please contact me for more information or with any additional questions.