| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1983 |
| Production Years: | 1983 - 1989 discontinued in 1989 |
The TVR 350 Coupe, produced from 1983 to 1989, represents a classic era of British sports car design, combining distinctive style with lightweight performance. This two-door coupe is known for its compact and aerodynamic dimensions, designed to provide a thrilling driving experience with sharp handling and agility. While exact size specifications such as length, width, and height vary slightly depending on model variants and modifications over its production period, the TVR 350 typically features a low, sporty stance common among 1980s performance cars. The vehicle's compact footprint aids in maneuverability, making it ideal for enthusiastic drivers seeking an engaging ride. The TVR 350 is celebrated for its lightweight construction and powerful engine options, contributing to its reputation as a driver-focused machine. Measuring approximately in the mid-to-late 4 meters range in length (about 13 feet), a width near 1.7 to 1.8 meters (approximately 5.5 to 6 feet), and a low height around 1.1 to 1.3 meters (roughly 4 to 4.3 feet), the coupe's dimensions emphasize sportiness and sleek design. These proportions helped the TVR 350 stand out from other sports cars of its time, making it a desirable vehicle for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The 350 Coupe combines classic British automotive craftsmanship with performance-oriented ergonomics, characterized by minimalist interior space optimized for the driver and passenger rather than cargo capacity. Overall, the TVR 350 Coupe remains an iconic sports car from the 1980s that balances compact size with dynamic driving capabilities, retaining its appeal for those passionate about vintage performance cars.
Discover the standout features that make the 1983 TVR 350 Coupe a leader in its class
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The TVR 350 Coupe, produced from 1983 to 1989, features a compact and sporty exterior design typical of British sports cars of the era. While exact published dimensions can vary depending on model specifics and minor changes throughout production years, the approximate length is around 4,115 mm (162 inches), the width about 1,676 mm (66 inches), and the height roughly 1,180 mm (46.5 inches). These measurements contribute to the 350 Coupe's sleek and low-slung profile, aimed at enhancing aerodynamics and driving dynamics. The relatively narrow width and low height help reduce drag and improve handling, making it well-suited for spirited driving and track use.
The TVR 350 Coupe features a wheelbase of approximately 2,286 mm (90 inches). The wheelbase—the distance between the centers of the front and rear wheels—plays a crucial role in the vehicle's stability, handling, and ride comfort. This length provides a balance between agility and ride quality, allowing the 350 Coupe to offer responsive cornering characteristic of TVR sports cars, while maintaining reasonable stability at higher speeds. The relatively short wheelbase also contributes to the car’s nimble behavior and low weight distribution.
The TVR 350 Coupe weighs approximately 970 kg (2,140 lbs) curb weight. This lightweight construction is a hallmark of TVR vehicles, achieved through the use of fiberglass bodywork and minimalistic interior design. The relatively low weight significantly benefits acceleration, braking, and handling, giving the 350 Coupe quick responsiveness and a nimble driving feel. The power-to-weight ratio, combined with the car’s two-door coupe design and rear-wheel-drive layout, delivers an engaging and spirited driving experience favored by enthusiasts.
Yes, the TVR 350 Coupe can comfortably fit into a standard home garage. Typical garage dimensions for a single-car setup are around 2,500 mm (8 feet 2 inches) wide and 5,500 mm (18 feet) deep, and with the TVR 350’s approximate width of 1,676 mm (66 inches) and length of 4,115 mm (162 inches), it fits well within these limits. Its low height of approximately 1,180 mm (46.5 inches) also ensures ample vertical clearance. This compact size makes it convenient for enthusiasts who store their car at home without needing an oversized garage.
The TVR 350 Coupe is designed primarily as a two-seater sports coupe, focusing on driver engagement rather than passenger comfort or spaciousness. The cabin is snug, characteristic of many small British sports cars from the 1980s, offering close driver and passenger proximity for a more connected driving experience. Headroom and legroom are limited, especially for taller occupants, due to the coupe’s low roofline and sporty seating position. Storage space is also minimal, suitable mostly for personal items or small luggage, reflecting the car’s focus on performance over practicality.
The TVR 350 Coupe is an evolution of the earlier TVR Tasmin 280i, and while they share a similar overall design philosophy, the 350 Coupe is slightly larger and more performance-oriented. The Tasmin 280i had an approximate length of 4,263 mm (168 inches) and width of 1,676 mm (66 inches), making it slightly longer but with a similar width to the 350 Coupe. The 350 Coupe is marginally more compact in length but retains the same width, emphasizing reduced weight and enhanced agility. Both share a similar low height, around 1,180 mm (46.5 inches). The TVR 350 also improved on engine options and handling dynamics over the Tasmin, making it a more focused sports car.
Compared to other 1980s sports coupes such as the Porsche 944 or the Lotus Esprit, the TVR 350 Coupe is somewhat smaller and lighter, emphasizing raw performance over luxury or advanced technology. For instance, the Porsche 944 measures about 4,240 mm (167 inches) in length and 1,700 mm (67 inches) in width, slightly larger and heavier than the TVR 350. The Lotus Esprit, famous for its wedge shape, is longer at roughly 4,320 mm (170 inches) and wider at about 1,770 mm (70 inches). The TVR 350’s more compact dimensions and lower weight contribute to a distinctive niche: agile, minimalist British sports cars designed for enthusiasts who prioritize driving thrill over creature comforts.
The TVR 350 Coupe is equipped with a fuel tank capacity of approximately 60 liters (15.9 US gallons), which provides a reasonable range given the car’s performance-oriented V8 engine. Luggage space is notably limited, typical for a coupe focused on performance. The trunk area offers roughly 200 liters (7 cubic feet) of storage, accommodating small bags or golf clubs rather than large suitcases. This limited storage underscores the 350 Coupe’s role as a dedicated sports car rather than a practical grand tourer.
The TVR 350 Coupe stands at a height of approximately 1,180 mm (46.5 inches), making it a low-slung sports car. Its ground clearance is about 120 mm (4.7 inches), which is relatively low. This low height and ground clearance significantly contribute to the vehicle’s low center of gravity, enhancing stability and cornering capabilities. However, the low ground clearance requires caution when navigating speed bumps or uneven surfaces to avoid underbody damage. The overall dimensions assist in providing a raw and responsive driving experience, aligning with the coupe’s track-focused nature.
The TVR 350 Coupe is powered by a 3.5-liter V8 engine derived from Rover, typically producing around 190 to 200 horsepower depending on tuning and production year. This engine is paired with a manual transmission, reinforcing the car’s driver-focused philosophy. The vehicle’s chassis employs a tubular steel frame with fiberglass body panels, resulting in a lightweight yet rigid structure. The suspension setup uses double wishbones at the front and live axle with trailing arms at the rear. This combination delivers sharp handling dynamics, while the rear-wheel-drive configuration and modest horsepower ensure an engaging driving experience favored by enthusiasts seeking classic British sports car thrills.
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