Lot 09: TVR TAIMAR

Originally founded in 1947 as TVR Engineering by Trevor Wilkinson, car production was to commence in 1954. During 1962, however, ongoing financial problems were to see the company cease trading, although business was to carry on, now being run by a subsidiary company  Grantura Engineering. Again, changing fortunes were to see the business purchased by Martin & Arthur Lilley in 1965, with Arthur's son, Martin  a TVR dealer  becoming Managing Director of the newly formed TVR Engineering Ltd, with Arthur as Chairman. Production of the existing 1800S model was to re-continue with new developments over the following years. For 1972, following a blaze of publicity at Earls Court, an all-new chassis was employed, forming the basis of the M-Series cars. The 2500M was powered by a Triumph 6-cylinder engine and 4-cylinder and V6 Ford engines were used for the 1600M and 3000M respectively, these models remaining the mainstay of TVR's output for the 1970s. From 1976 until 1979 came the Taimar, basically a re-styled version of the 3000M, now featuring a welcome lift-up hatchback making luggage access so much easier. Despite this advantage, the weight rose just 20lbs and this new model was to have considerable appeal, offering practicality with excellent performance. In the care of the present custodian for the past 22 years, this example of the Taimar dates from 1979. During this time it has been serviced annually irrespective of the mileage covered and has always been garaged. A programme of ongoing maintenance has meant that the car has always remained in a ready-to-use condition although few miles have in fact been covered in recent times. It is said to run very well and service records etc. are provided along with all previous MOT certificates and tax discs since 1986. Finished in Silver with black interior trim, the car is offered with the aforementioned service records together with a V5C document and MOT certificate valid until May 2009.