1988 TVR Tasmin 350i Sport 225

Vendor supplied images

Highlights

Outstanding documentation from new
Original owners' books and full documented history
Rare Sport 225 model confirmed by TVR club
Fully serviced and tuned recently
New tyres and recently replaced roof
New MOT will be done before collection

The Appeal

Perhaps one of Pete Wheeler's most impactful cars, the wedge-shaped, hand-built TVR Tasmin 350i is a rare and exhilarating British sports car that stands out for its unique blend of V8 power and go-kart-like handling. This specific 1988 model is particularly special due to its Sport 225 package. If the limited run of the Tamsin wasn't rare enough, this package is scarcer than hen's teeth. To save TVR homologating another model, the performance-enhancing parts were supplied in the boot for the dealer to install for the customer!

The package boasts a Sport 225hp engine with upgraded 4 pot brakes. That new level of responsiveness and power made the Sport 225 a tantalising option, and set an already fast sports car into legendary territory.

Rare, yet eminently more economic than many of the car's continental contemporaries, this example of 'Wheeler's Wedge' has been cossetted over the years, as evidenced by a wealth of paperwork. Recent work includes a full service, replacement of various seals and gaskets, and a distributor service by H&H Ignitions. The car also benefits from new tyres, a recently replaced roof, and upgraded brakes, ensuring it is in fine fettle for its next owner.

History and Paperwork

Registered in 1988
4 registered keepers
MOT valid until July 2024
TVR club confirmed it was indeed a sport model
Full service recently carried out, including replacing rocker cover, inlet manifold, and sump seals/gaskets
Outstanding documentation from new:
- Original owners' books and bill of sale
- MOT certificates dating back to 1995
- Additional service information for the '350 sport (225 conversion)'
- Original sales invoice from Christopher Neil Sports Cars dated 02-11-1988
- Additional information from previous owners describing their time with the TVR

The Condition

Chassis is corrosion-free, with regular touch-ups/wax oil
No repair work carried out; sill covers were removed to inspect the outriggers and seatbelt mounts
Body has some signs of age; bumpers have recently been painted
Passenger door mirror is the worst area
Roof replaced
Front and rear bumpers repainted
Finisher seal on the front bumper is missing but on order and will be installed shortly
Fitted with a full set of new tyres
Seats show some wear, commensurate with age
Door cards and roof trim have been replaced
Some light wear to the leather dashboard surround
Veneers carry light signs of use
All instruments clear and legible
Original music player is still in situ

The Mechanics

3,528cc Rover V8 powerplant
Sport 225hp engine (9.75:1 comp ratio)
5-speed transmission
Upgraded 4 pot brakes with brake shields
Limited slip differential
Inlet manifold and sump removed to show a clean and healthy engine
Coolant hoses and fuel hoses all replaced
Starts, stops, and drives just as a TVR should
New rear brake calipers, pads, and discs
New front brake pads
New Engine ECU
New air flow meter
Tie rod bushes and washers
All fuel hoses replaced, including tricky ones connecting the rear fuel tank saddles
New fuel swirl pot from ACT Performance Parts
Coolant hoses replaced
HT leads, spark plugs, and distributor cap replaced
Lower ball joint replaced for MOT
Notorious steering column bush replaced
Exhaust system replaced
Fast, usable classic
The vendor notes this car's impressive Go-Kart handling
We're informed it's ultimately in superb order

BEFORE YOU BUY

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