Description
The TVR Vixen was a hand-built British sports car produced by TVR in Blackpool between 1967 and 1973, evolving from the Grantura and establishing itself as one of the marque’s most distinctive lightweight sports cars. Built around a tubular chassis with glassfibre bodywork, the Vixen combined compact dimensions with sporting performance and the individual character that has become synonymous with early TVRs. The 1968 model year marked the introduction of the Vixen S2, bringing the longer-wheelbase chassis and a number of detail improvements to the increasingly successful design.
This particular 1968 TVR Vixen is a particularly appealing example, having remained within the same family since January 2006 and benefitting from a sympathetic restoration carried out in 2014. The work undertaken at that time included new wire wheels, fresh paintwork, chassis repairs and new trim, with invoices for the restoration amounting to over £4, 000. The results are still very evident today, with the striking red paintwork presenting extremely well, complemented by a black leather interior and brightwork that remains in excellent condition.
What really sets this Vixen apart, however, is the depth of history accompanying the car. There is a handwritten record detailing every owner from the car’s first owner in 1968, providing an unusually clear picture of its journey through the years. The last owner, Mr D, went to considerable lengths to establish the car’s provenance, writing to the DVLA and receiving a substantial quantity of historical paperwork, including copies of previous V5 documents. Together, this forms an impressive ownership archive rarely found with a car of this age.
The history file is further enhanced by the original TVR owner’s manual, numerous photographs taken during the 2014 restoration and a fascinating collection of handwritten diagrams showing the locations of various components and explaining what they are. It is the sort of documentation that gives an insight not only into the work carried out, but also into the enthusiasm and care that has surrounded the car.
Finished in its striking red exterior with black leather trim, the Vixen has the right visual presence for one of TVR’s early sports cars. The wire wheels, freshened bodywork, excellent chrome and well-presented interior combine to give it a very purposeful appearance, while the restoration has clearly been carried out with the intention of keeping this distinctive British sports car on the road for many more years.
A 1968 TVR Vixen with a well-documented ownership history, substantial restoration file and a family connection stretching back to 2006, this is an interesting and highly individual classic from TVR’s early Blackpool-built era. The combination of provenance, restoration history and presentation makes this an especially appealing example for the enthusiast looking for something rather different from the usual British sports car.
Viewing is by appointment only.
