Lot 162: 1965 TVR Griffith Competition

When Blackpool-based TVR began building its distinctive and individual sports cars in 1958, founder Trevor Wilkinson chose a multi-tubular chassis, all round independent suspension and stubby fibreglass coach work as the formula for the marque. The arrival of the mighty 150mph Griffith which, thanks to its AC Cobra 4.7 litre V8 engine, instantly propelled the diminutive British machine into an altogether higher performance league.By early 1964 it had evolved into the 400, the improved specification including a larger radiator with twin electric fans and restyled body work with a Manx tail. With the 271bhp option few cars could match the 160mph top speed and 0-60mph time of 5.5 seconds; combined with good road holding, it made the TVR ideal for competition.This particular race prepared Griffith has been the recent recipient of a comprehensive restoration. A list of all of the work that has been carried out is too long to list here but a summary includes; an engine rebuilt with all new internal parts, pistons, cams, valves, and crankshaft. It has been race tuned to provide 400 bhp. Any replacement parts were provided courtesy of TVR and the body was restored by race car specialists in the UK. The restoration included the replacement of essential components and it has received a completely new suspension, new brakes, new oil and water radiators, new wiring loom, new roll bar and a new safety fuel tank. A fairly comprehensive restoration we think you would agree, the cost of which ran into thousands and thousands of Euros, far exceeding the asking price of today. Being a 1965 car it is also eligible for numerous historic events, and is sure to be a front runner in the right hands.The car is supplied with its American registration paperwork and will therefore require re registering in Europe, however all EU Custom Duty has been paid