Out of 117 TVR Vixen S1s produced, just 14 of those were made with the MG engine, and this particular model is number 13 out of those 14. Being one of just 117 is quite special but one of the 14 to receive the MG engine makes it a very rare car. So that is your first appealing fact about the TVR; the second is it has been fully restored with the body off, ensuring nothing was left untouched from the body, to the chassis and the mechanics. 

The third fact is that it has also been given a few extra horses with an increase in engine size to a 1860cc, making it a little more revvy and fantastic fun to drive.

What a fantastic opportunity to own a classic TVR that is barely even run in after covering just 159 miles since completion. It’s the perfect car to take straight to the show field, the odd coffee morning here and there and will undoubtedly draw in the crowds, so be prepared for some questions!   

The seller purchased the TVR in 2019 as a project car. Having a vision in mind, he knew exactly how it would end up, and work commenced on the full stripdown immediately. As a result, the TVR has been fully rebuilt from the ground up to an excellent standard over a two-year period, leaving nothing untouched. 

The paperwork for the car is extensive and shows just how much time and effort has gone into sourcing rare parts to restore this classic 1968 Vixen S1.  

Inside, the TVR has the original leather seats which are in excellent condition and have minimal wear for the age of the vehicle. The door cards have been retrimmed in leather to match the seats and are free from any scuffs or marks. 

The dashboard, which has been trimmed to match, holds various gauges, all of which are working as they should, apart from the clock, which does not function. The odometer has a reading of 92,627 miles which is reported to be the original mileage, but please remember the engine and mechanical side has all been rebuilt. There is a small split in the stitching of the steering wheel, which a trimmer could probably repair. They would, of course, need to see this first for inspection.  

The carpets are new and have been finished with leather edging for that extra touch of detail. Looking up, the headlining has been replaced and is therefore in excellent order and fits like a glove with no sagging.  

When looking over the TVR's body, it is great to see how good the fit and finish of the panels is. The usual rippled effect often seen on fibreglass bodies is not there, and everything looks nice and smooth, suggesting that a considerable amount of time has been spent on the TVR’s paintwork. The colour choice for the Vixen is a Land Rover Firenze Red which sets the car off a treat. There are no chips to mention, and it all still looks very, very fresh. 

The headlights and indicators have been replaced, so they are bright and clear. The chrome work for the corner bumpers is in good condition with no tarnishing. The front end aligns nicely and opens and closes as it should. Moving further up, the windscreen is free from any chips and is held in place with a new seal. 

Around to the sides, the doors align nicely and close with a firm hand. The window frames are in good condition and show no weathering. The windows are also in good order with minimal scratches. The lovely shaped rear arches flow around to the rear, which looks just as good as the rest of the car. The curved rear window is held in place with new seals, and the MK1 Cortina rear lights are in good order with no splits or cracks. 

Chrome wire wheels finish the look of the car, held in place with knock-offs; these are in excellent condition and are fitted with a matching set of tyres which are also like new.

Starting off the mechanical restoration was the chassis, which was blasted clean and inspected before being powder coated in black. This then had the new AVO fully adjustable coilovers fitted and a complete set of polybushes to ensure everything would be nice and tight whilst out on the road. The TVR is reported to handle excellently; being so light and nimble makes it a great car to drive.

Adding to the driving experience is the fully rebuilt engine, which is now 1860cc. Fitted with new pistons, liners, fast road camshaft, vernier timing gear, bearings, as well as being fully balanced, the engine is a snappy revvy unit perfectly suited to the Vixen. The twin SU carburettors have been fully rebuilt and balanced up nicely, so the car starts with the flick of the key. The car has been updated with modern electrics too, eschewing the original dynamo in favour of a more modern alternator set up. 

The gearbox has also been upgraded to a four-speed with overdrive which will make motorway journeys a touch more economical. The brakes have not been left out either, with new calipers and discs at the front to ensure the car comes to a halt in a straight line. For the twisty bits, the steering has been treated to rose joints on the drop links for a more precise feel through the wheel.  

Update: The seller has advised that the differential has some slight play.

What a great way to step into TVR ownership! Buying this restored Vixen S1 is probably one of the best decisions you could make if you are in the market for a classic TVR. 

It's ready to go and be enjoyed, with the engine just needing a few more hundred miles to be fully run in. Could you really get a newer car?

Let's not forget this is one of 117 Vixen S1s made and number 13 out of 14 with the MG engine fitted, making it a very rare and sought after vehicle. So what are you waiting for? Your TVR awaits.