pcutt

Back in the mid-80s I turned down an opportunity to buy a late '70s TVR Vixen that sported a V8. I didn't even drive the thing but since I own an 86 NA nowadays, I've been wondering how the handling of the two compared. I'm more interested in handling relative to curves (and hilly curves!) rather than straight-line acceleration. Anybody have any experience with those TVRs?

Here's a random link of a Vixen to show the body style, but the one I was offered had a V8 wedged in there.

PorscheDude1

Not many vixen's here in the States. Most probably do not know what a vixen is or even a TVR for that matter.

Very cool car none the less. Was the car that had a V8, a Rover V8?

pcutt

Yes, the Rover V8, which was actually licensed from Buick.

V2Rocket

that things pretty cool, like a beefy datsun lol

Pcar944

I've never driven one but used to see many in the UK.

They had a reputation for alarming handling. TVR was only one step up from a kit car manufacturer. The convertible didnt even have roll up windows but used old style side curtains.

Epic2112

Like the TR8. Or were those actual Buick engines?

pcutt

Rover licensed the design from Buick and manufactured them in England and supplied these V8s to the miscellaneous sports car mfgs. Yes, same as the TR8.

zoltan944

Well wasn't the 944 tagged the best handling production car in the mid 80's?
So wouldn't that answer the question?

pcutt

"Alarming" meaning mediocre and scary? Not sure how much slang you're using. My pal who owned it swore by its handling, but this was down in South Florida where there were neither curves nor hills so it was hard to judge.

Another car I passed up was an early '70s Europa owned by my uncle's racing buddy up in Tallahassee where there are plenty of great driving roads. That Europa really was a driver's dream! It's the one car I regret not buying when I had a chance.