1971 | TVR Vixen Serie 3

TVR Vixen S3s are becoming increasingly difficult to come across with only 168 ever made. BYS 645K is a stunning example having been subject to a full body-off restoration and featuring tasteful upgrades throughout. The car is powered by an impressive Lotus Twin Cam engine sending the power through a Ford Type 9 5-Speed gearbox. A Rollcentre Roll cage and adjustable coilovers add to the agility offered by the already nimble design. Old MOT certificates among the plethora of paperwork in the history file detail 61,000 miles in 1992 therefore the indicated mileage could be correct.

Meticulous maintenance would be a slight understatement when studying the huge file of receipts for the TVR. Within the last 5 years, many of the major jobs have been completed, giving peace of mind for its next owner. 2022 saw the Vixen treated to a new clutch kit and spigot bearing along with a full gearbox gasket kit in addition to a new rear main oil seal while the gearbox was removed. More recently, in 2025, the most recent owner has carried out a thorough mechanical refresh on the S3. Jobs completed included a full steering and suspension overhaul with an uprated polybush kit, new ball joints, track rod ends, anti-roll bar links, new wheel bearings, cleaned and repainted wishbones, and rebuilt trunnions. The pedal box had been removed, cleaned, repaired and recovered. The electrical system received a refresh with a new alternator, starter motor and battery, while the instruments were recalibrated. For the cooling system, the thermostat was replaced, and additional cooling fans were installed. Most notably, the head gasket and rocker cover gaskets were renewed in spring of 2025.

In the heart of the Vixen is the favourable 1.6L Ford Kent I4 engine with twin 40DCOE carbs providing the fuel. This arrangement of power delivery provides a superbly balanced driving experience with spirited driving being rewarded at the higher end of the rev range. In true sportscar fashion, all the power is sent to the rear wheels. Enhancing the driving experience, certainly at cruising speed, is the Ford Type 9 5-Speed gearbox. Overall, BYS 645K feels like an exceptionally well maintained, ready-to-go sportscar.

The Vixen series production ran from 1967 to 1973 with only 1,029 units manufactured throughout this 6-year period. Of those produced only 168 S3 examples were made with the latest ones rolling off the production line in early 1972. The combination of the twin cam ford engine and the emphasis on a lightweight body construction led to the Vixen being a very popular choice among enthusiasts.