1996 TVR Griffith 500 from UK and Ireland - Comments

Paint runs.

Water leaks everywhere.

Electrical failure (ECU).

Fading roof.

Wheel bearing.

The attitude of TVR once I had bought the car was "they did not want to know".

Dealer service was non-existent.

I would not recommend a TVR to anyone.

Which dealer did you go to?

Some are better than others, and it is worth shopping around rather than going for your nearest.

I have owned a Griffith 500 from new. The car is designed for enthusiasts who have an empathy with motor cars. My car has been superb and my dealer, The TVR Centre excellent, I just wish they had a branch nearer to my home! I would never recommend a TVR to a former BMW or Porche owner, the ownership experience is neither better or worse.. just different.

The Griffith doesn't use the AJP...

You have to understand that when you are buying a used TVR, you are buying a machine that was made with performance in mind and sheer thrills. You are also buying a car that will embarrase the likes of Porsche and Ferrari when it comes to performance, at half the price.

Bearing that in mind, the car will demand some level of pampering and patience, sometimes.

If you want reliability buy a VW Golf.

If you want rock solid build quality buy a Mercedes, BMW or Volvo.

If you want a convertible that may never leak but a Mercedes, etc convertible.

But, if you want a car that has all the above AND the performance of a TVR, win the lottery first.

I am sorry to hear you have had bad dealings with the dealer you bought the car from. It is a real shame, and it should not be a reflection of TVR.

I own a Mitsubishi EVO 5 Lancer and a TVR Griffith, both different beasts, both stunning car's. If you find owning a TVR problematic, buy a Rover!!!...