| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1984 |
| Production Years: | 1984 - 1987 discontinued in 1987 |
The TVR 280 Coupe, produced from 1984 to 1987, is a prime example of British sports car engineering from the 1980s. This model continued TVR's tradition of lightweight, driver-focused vehicles emphasizing agility and style. Although relatively compact in size compared to many contemporary coupes, the TVR 280 delivered a distinctive blend of performance and classic design that appealed to enthusiasts seeking a unique sports car experience.
While exact official dimensions may vary slightly across sources, the TVR 280 Coupe typically features a length of approximately 4,060 mm (159.8 inches), a width near 1,670 mm (65.7 inches), and a height around 1,140 mm (44.9 inches). Weighing roughly 975 kg (2,150 lbs), the coupe’s lightweight construction contributed significantly to its nimble handling and responsive driving dynamics on winding roads.
The 280 model was powered by a robust inline four-cylinder engine, which offered spirited power delivery suitable for both spirited weekend drives and track use. The compact coupe body design combined a low roofline and a sleek profile, providing aerodynamic efficiency and the unmistakable silhouette that has become iconic among TVR collectors and enthusiasts.
Inside, the TVR 280 Coupe embraced a simple yet purposeful interior layout focused on the driving experience, with minimal distractions and a firm seating position. Its status as a limited-production vehicle from the mid-1980s adds to its collectible appeal, marking it as a special representation of TVR’s commitment to performance and individuality during that period.
Overall, the TVR 280 Coupe represents a classic British sports car that balances compact exterior dimensions with lightweight design philosophy, delivering a pure driving experience that remains appreciated by car aficionados today.
Discover the standout features that make the 1984 TVR 280 Coupe a leader in its class
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The TVR 280 Coupe from the 1984-1987 production period measures approximately 4,060 mm (159.8 inches) in length, about 1,690 mm (66.5 inches) in width, and stands around 1,140 mm (44.9 inches) in height. These compact dimensions highlight its sporty coupe design, making it relatively small and agile compared to many modern sports cars. Its sleek and low profile contributes to its distinctive TVR styling and helps optimize aerodynamic performance on the road.
The wheelbase of the TVR 280 Coupe is approximately 2,440 mm (96.1 inches). This moderately short wheelbase plays a critical role in the vehicle’s nimble handling and responsiveness, qualities often associated with TVR sports cars. A shorter wheelbase generally allows quicker turning and better agility, making the 280 Coupe well-suited for spirited driving and cornering. However, it may also result in a slightly firmer ride, characteristic of focused sports coupes from this era.
The TVR 280 Coupe measures roughly 1,690 mm (66.5 inches) in width. This width offers a good balance between compactness and road presence, enhancing stability during fast cornering and spirited driving. Its relatively wide stance, paired with a low height, lowers the center of gravity and contributes to the car's confident handling and grip on the road. This width is typical for mid-1980s sports coupes designed to emphasize driver engagement and road feedback.
The TVR 280 Coupe weighs approximately 975 kg (2,149 lbs) curb weight. This relatively light weight, compared to other sports cars of the 1980s, significantly enhances the car's performance and agility. A lighter car can accelerate faster, brake more effectively, and handle corners with greater precision. TVR’s focus on lightweight construction complements the car’s potent engine to deliver an engaging and lively driving experience, reinforcing its reputation as a driver-focused sports coupe.
Yes, the TVR 280 Coupe fits comfortably into a standard garage space. With dimensions of approximately 4,060 mm (159.8 inches) in length and 1,690 mm (66.5 inches) in width, the car is smaller than the average modern vehicle. Most standard garages are designed to accommodate vehicles around 5 meters (16.4 feet) long and 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) wide, so the TVR 280 Coupe's size makes it easy to park and store in typical residential garage spaces without difficulty.
The TVR 280 Coupe features a compact two-seater layout typical of sports coupes from the mid-1980s. Interior space is focused primarily on the driver and front passenger, offering a snug and sporty environment with minimal rear or cargo capacity. Though not expansive, the cockpit provides good ergonomics and driver-focused instrumentation, enhancing the connection between car and driver. Passenger comfort is adequate for short to moderate drives but may feel tight for taller individuals due to the low roofline and compact cabin dimensions.
The TVR 280 Coupe is actually part of the Tasmin series, often referred to as the Tasmin 280i. Compared to earlier TVR models, the 280 features a similar body style and dimensions but benefits from refinements in build quality and mechanical components introduced through the 1984-1987 production period. Performance-wise, the 280 Coupe typically came with a Rover V8 engine producing around 190 bhp, delivering strong acceleration and lively handling. Compared to the preceding models, it offers a better balance between everyday usability and spirited driving, with slight dimensional adjustments but largely consistent sizing within the TVR Tasmin lineage.
When compared to contemporaries like the Porsche 944 or Lotus Esprit, the TVR 280 Coupe is generally more compact and lighter. For example, the Porsche 944 measures about 4,240 mm (166.9 inches) in length and weighs around 1,335 kg (2,944 lbs), while the Lotus Esprit is roughly 4,300 mm (169 inches) long with a weight near 1,200 kg (2,645 lbs). The TVR 280's smaller footprint (approx. 4,060 mm length) and lighter weight (approx. 975 kg/2,149 lbs) contribute to its sharp handling and agility but may offer less interior space and refinement. This makes the 280 more of a raw, driver-focused sports coupe in comparison.
The TVR 280 Coupe is equipped with a fuel tank capacity of approximately 61 liters (16.1 US gallons). This capacity provides a reasonable driving range suitable for both spirited drives and longer touring, assuming average fuel consumption for an engine in its class and era. Considering its lightweight design and efficient Rover V8 powertrain, the car offers a balanced combination of performance and range, though real-world mileage depends heavily on driving style and conditions. Owners can generally enjoy a decent distance between refueling stops on mixed driving routes.
The TVR 280 Coupe stands approximately 1,140 mm (44.9 inches) tall, making it a low-slung coupe with a sporty stance. Its low height contributes significantly to a lower center of gravity, improving handling, cornering stability, and aerodynamics. However, the reduced height and correspondingly low ground clearance mean it requires attentive driving over speed bumps, steep driveways, or rough road surfaces to avoid scraping. While these dimensions enhance performance, they slightly limit practicality when it comes to everyday urban driving and accessibility.
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