TVR Grantura Classic Cars for Sale

History of the TVR Grantura

TVR launched the Grantura in 1958 as its very first production model, marking the beginning of the Blackpool company's long tradition of building lightweight, performance-oriented sports cars. Over nearly a decade, the Grantura evolved through several iterations—from the original Mark I to the final Mark IV and 1800S, ending production in September 1967. Each stage brought mechanical and design improvements, embodying a philosophy of customisable, driver-focused cars. Early models introduced the use of tubular backbone chassis and fibreglass bodies, a configuration that set TVR apart from mainstream manufacturers.

Model Series Evolution

The Grantura series is divided into distinct marks: Mk I, Mk II, Mk IIA, Mk III, Mk IV, and the 1800S variant. The Mark I pioneered TVR’s backbone chassis with a variety of engines, while Mk II and Mk IIA offered refinements such as improved suspension geometry and component upgrades. Mk III and Mk IV continued this evolution, with the latter targeting further chassis rigidity and ride improvements. The wide variety of engines, including the popular MGA 1588cc units with possibilities for HRG crossflow heads, illustrates the flexible and bespoke nature of Grantura production. The successor to the Grantura series is the TVR Vixen, which built upon many of these foundation concepts.

Highlights and Special Features of the Grantura

The Grantura is well suited for entry into historic motorsport. Many examples are FIA certified (Period E/GTS 5), enabling participation in classic race events like the Oldtimer Grand Prix Nürburgring, Jim Clark Revival Hockenheimring, and historic hill climbs such as Rechberg and Großglockner. Typical technical enhancements include close-ratio gearboxes, Weber dual carburettors, and HRG crossflow heads. Wire wheels and Wiechers roll cages—sometimes with extra reinforcement—are common in racing-prepared cars. Many vehicles come with an array of spare and accessory parts, reflecting the owner-enthusiast culture surrounding the model.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The 1800S is considered a notable version due to its performance enhancements over previous models. Cars equipped with FIA Historic Vehicle passports or those prepared for major classic motorsport events such as the Historic-Berg-Europameisterschaft stand out within the Grantura lineage. Such variants often feature comprehensive upgrades and certification unique to their motorsport pedigree.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Regular engine rebuilds are typical, with refreshed cylinder heads, pistons, connecting rods, and camshafts. Cars often rely on diligent owner maintenance rather than specialist garages. Key points to inspect include the integrity of the backbone chassis, overall body condition, especially the fibreglass, and wear on critical suspension and drivetrain components due to motorsport use. Fuel system reliability often comes from upgraded Pierburg pumps, yet regular attention is necessary. Due to the competition history of these cars, check for structural fatigue, particularly around roll cage mounts and reinforced areas.

Engine, Transmission & Handling

The TVR Grantura offers a highly tactile driving experience, emphasised by its light weight, communicative chassis, and responsive engine options. Original motors range from modest four-cylinders (frequently the MGA 1588cc with HRG crossflow heads and Weber carburettors) to occasional Coventry Climax or Ford engines in later models. Close-ratio manual gearboxes and a well-tuned suspension contribute to the car's agility and responsiveness, especially in motorsport or hill climb settings.

Popular Models:

1. Grantura Mk I: Favoured for historic racing, often featuring dual Weber carburettors and wire wheels.
2. Grantura Mk IIA: Noted for improved suspension and increased demand among enthusiasts.
3. 1800S: Enhanced engine performance, suitable for both competition and spirited road use. undefined

Design – Interior, Comfort, Exterior

Granturas feature hand-laid fibreglass bodies—a rarity at the time—on backbone steel frames. The interior is stripped and purposeful, prioritising weight reduction for motorsport. Variants prepared for racing typically include Wiechers roll cages, additional cross-bracing, and simple sports seats. Externally, the models showcase classic 1960s British sports car lines, often seen with period-correct pastel or race-inspired colours and sometimes supplied with original wire wheels. The dashboard layout is simple, with large-dial instrumentation and minimal luxury features, reflecting the car’s driver-centric focus. Accessories often include sets of spare wheels, period-correct badges, or historic event stickers, underlining their motorsport use.

Other Noteworthy Aspects

Many Grantura owners actively participate in the maintenance and preparation of their vehicles, with a strong DIY culture enabling direct involvement in race prep and servicing. It’s common for cars to be supplied with a selection of spare parts and documentation, highlighting the model’s adaptability for competition or regular historic events.

Summary

The TVR Grantura is the origin point for many of TVR's defining characteristics: lightweight construction, innovation in chassis and engine use, and a deep connection with motorsport. The variety within the Grantura range, from the Mk I through to the 1800S, offers options for both pure road use and historic racing participation. The strong market interest in early series Granturas is reflected in current supply and demand, with a notable share focused on Mk I models, making them a cornerstone entry in the world of British classic sports cars.