| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1984 |
| Production Years: | 1984 - 1989 discontinued in 1989 |
The TVR 390 Cabriolet, produced from 1984 to 1989, represents a quintessential example of British sports car engineering from the mid-1980s. Known for its distinctive design and lightweight construction, the 390 series emphasized agility and driving pleasure. As a cabriolet, the model combines sporty aesthetics with the open-air driving experience cherished by enthusiasts.
Though exact dimensions for the TVR 390 are not universally documented, typical sports cars of its era and class featured compact ergonomics to optimize handling and performance. The vehicle likely measures approximately 3.8 to 4.2 meters (150 to 165 inches) in length, with a width around 1.6 to 1.7 meters (63 to 67 inches), and a low height near 1.1 to 1.2 meters (43 to 47 inches). Its weight would fall in the range of approximately 900 to 1,000 kilograms (2,000 to 2,200 pounds), consistent with TVR's philosophy of minimizing mass for enhanced speed and responsiveness.
Powered typically by a robust V8 engine sourced from Rover during its production years, the TVR 390 delivered an engaging driving experience characterized by brisk acceleration and sharp handling. Its cabriolet configuration further enhanced the connection between driver, car, and environment, making it a favored choice among sports car aficionados.
Compared with contemporaries, the TVR 390 stood out for its combination of lightweight construction, performance-oriented styling, and a manual transmission that emphasized driver involvement. The car's compact dimensions also made it nimble on winding roads, a core appeal of British sports cars of the period.
Overall, the TVR 390 Cabriolet remains a celebrated model that highlights the spirited character of 1980s British motoring, blending classic design elements with practical performance and the joy of open-air driving.
Discover the standout features that make the 1984 TVR 390 a leader in its class
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The TVR 390 Cabriolet produced between 1984 and 1989 is a compact sports car with an overall length of approximately 3,935 mm (154.9 inches), a width of around 1,615 mm (63.6 inches), and a height of roughly 1,120 mm (44.1 inches). These dimensions make the 390 a small and agile vehicle, emphasizing a low profile design typical of classic British roadsters of the time.
The TVR 390 features a wheelbase of about 2,286 mm (90 inches), providing a balanced chassis that enhances its handling characteristics. A shorter wheelbase like this contributes to the car's nimbleness and sharp cornering ability, which is essential for a sports car designed to deliver an engaging and responsive driving experience on both road and track.
The TVR 390 has an approximate curb weight of 850 kg (1,874 lbs). This lightweight design is fundamental to its performance, allowing for quick acceleration and nimble handling. The low mass, combined with its powerful engine, results in a responsive and thrilling driving experience that's characteristic of TVR's sporty heritage.
Yes, the TVR 390 easily fits into a standard garage. With its compact length of around 3.9 meters (12.9 feet), width of approximately 1.6 meters (5.3 feet), and low height of just over 1.1 meters (3.7 feet), it occupies less space than many modern sports cars or sedans. Typical single garages, which usually measure at least 2.4 to 3 meters in width and about 5.5 to 6 meters in depth, comfortably accommodate the TVR 390.
The TVR 390 is a two-seater cabriolet focused on driver engagement rather than passenger space. Its interior is snug and driver-centric, reflecting the sports car ethos of the 1980s. Comparable to many small British and European roadsters of the era, it provides limited cargo space and minimal rear storage, emphasizing a lightweight and minimalistic design.
The TVR 390 was developed as a more refined and slightly larger successor to the TVR 350i, which was produced prior to 1984. Dimensionally, the 390 retained a similar compact footprint but featured slight increases in length and width to improve stability and accommodate a more powerful engine setup. These subtle dimensional changes enhanced handling and comfort while maintaining the lightweight sports car character essential to TVR’s niche.
Compared to contemporaries such as the Lotus Esprit and Porsche 944, the TVR 390 is notably smaller and lighter. The Lotus Esprit, for example, measures over 4.2 meters (around 13.8 feet) in length and weighs roughly 1,200 kg (2,645 lbs), while the Porsche 944 is near 4.3 meters (14.1 feet) long and weighs approximately 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs). The TVR 390’s compact dimensions and sub-900 kg curb weight give it an agility advantage, making it a focused, minimalist sports car compared to the somewhat larger and heavier German rivals.
The TVR 390 sports a low-slung body with smooth, flowing lines typical of 1980s British sports cars. Its cabriolet design benefits from a compact footprint and a low height, aiding aerodynamic efficiency despite lacking modern aerodynamic aids. The absence of heavy bumpers and large overhangs keeps the car's dimensions tight while emphasizing its lightweight sports character. The overall design balances styling and performance without sacrificing the car’s nimbleness.
Given its 1980s sports car origins and compact size, the TVR 390 offers minimal modern safety and comfort features by today's standards. It lacks airbags, advanced electronic aids, and extensive sound insulation, focusing instead on lightweight performance and driver involvement. Interior space is limited, with basic amenities typical of the era’s sports cars. While it provides an authentic and engaging driving experience, it does not cater to modern expectations of comfort or comprehensive safety.
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