| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1986 |
| Production Years: | 1986 - 1988 discontinued in 1988 |
The TVR 420 Cabrio is a distinctive British sports cabriolet produced between 1986 and 1988, embodying the classic 1980s TVR styling combined with open-top driving excitement. This generation of the TVR 420 was designed to offer an engaging driving experience with a lightweight chassis and a compact yet sporty footprint.
While exact measurements for length, width, height, and weight vary slightly depending on specific models and modifications, the TVR 420 Cabrio typically features a length around 4,270 mm (168 inches), a width close to 1,740 mm (68.5 inches), and a height approximately 1,240 mm (48.8 inches). Its relatively low profile and wide stance contribute to enhanced stability and a dynamic road presence.
Constructed as a cabriolet, the TVR 420 offers an open-air motoring experience with a manually operated soft top, emphasizing the pure, unfiltered driving sensation the brand is known for. The car's lightweight construction and rear-wheel-drive platform make it agile, delivering sharp handling and responsive control.
Produced for a brief period from 1986 to 1988, the TVR 420 Cabrio remains a sought-after classic for collectors and enthusiasts. Its design reflects the spirited era of British sports cars, with an emphasis on performance and driver engagement rather than luxury or mass-market appeal.
In summary, the TVR 420 Cabrio stands out for its compact, aerodynamic design and spirited performance as a classic 1980s British convertible, making it a notable model in the history of TVR sports cars.
Discover the standout features that make the 1986 TVR 420 Cabrio a leader in its class
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The TVR 420 Cabrio produced from 1986 to 1988 measures approximately 4140 mm (163 inches) in length, 1680 mm (66 inches) in width, and 1270 mm (50 inches) in height. These dimensions reflect a compact yet sporty cabriolet design typical of the era, emphasizing a low and wide stance to enhance performance and aesthetics.
The TVR 420 Cabrio has a curb weight of around 1100 kg (2425 lbs). This relatively light weight for a sports cabriolet aids in nimble handling and acceleration, contributing to a responsive driving experience. The lightweight construction allows the car to deliver agility while maintaining sportscar rawness characteristic of TVR vehicles.
The TVR 420 Cabrio has a wheelbase measuring about 2280 mm (approximately 89.8 inches). This wheelbase length strikes a balance between sharp handling and stability at speed, supporting the car's role as a driver-focused sports cabriolet. It results in maneuverable dynamics without sacrificing ride comfort.
Yes, the TVR 420 Cabrio fits comfortably into a standard garage. Given its length of roughly 4140 mm (163 inches) and width of 1680 mm (66 inches), it is smaller than many modern vehicles, making it suitable for typical garage spaces. Height clearance at approximately 1270 mm (50 inches) also means it poses no challenges when parking under standard garage roofs.
The TVR 420 Cabrio is a two-seater sports cabriolet, focusing primarily on driver and passenger engagement rather than large interior volume. Its compact interior is built around a driver-centric cockpit, offering sufficient comfort for two adults though limited cargo space. The design maximizes sporty feel and visibility rather than spaciousness.
The TVR 420 Cabrio features a manually operated soft top that, when raised, fits snugly over the passenger compartment without significantly increasing the vehicle's height. When lowered, the top neatly folds behind the seats, maintaining the car's compact length and preserving the low-slung silhouette. This design supports both closed and open-air driving without bulky or heavy roof components.
Compared to its predecessor, the TVR 350 series, the 420 Cabrio is marginally larger in length and width, providing a slightly more substantial road presence while still remaining compact. Performance-wise, the 420 featured a larger straight-six engine offering increased power and torque, improving acceleration and top speed. The updates reflected a shift towards more refined power delivery combined with the classic TVR lightweight ethos.
The TVR 420 Cabrio compares competitively with mid-1980s sports cabriolets such as the MG RV8 and Lotus Elan M100. Dimensionally, it is similar in length and width but usually lighter, which enhances its dynamic agility. The TVR’s distinctive inline-six engine and raw driving feel set it apart, offering a more visceral experience compared to some contemporaries focused more on comfort or refinement.
Cargo capacity in the TVR 420 Cabrio is limited due to its compact two-seater architecture and the space needed to stow the convertible top when down. The boot offers approximately 150 liters (5.3 cubic feet) of storage space, suitable for light luggage or groceries but not designed for large cargo loads. This aligns with its primary function as a sporty leisure vehicle rather than a utility car.
The TVR 420 Cabrio has a tight turning radius of about 4.9 meters (16 feet), which is quite favorable for a sports car of its era. This contributes to its excellent maneuverability in cramped urban settings and parking situations, making it less cumbersome than larger sports cars or grand tourers despite its performance-oriented design.
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