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1985 TVR 280i
2dr Coupe
6-cyl. 2792cc/145hp Bosch FI
#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good
$9,800*
+6.5%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
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Notes
Note:Also known as the Tasmin.
Jan 2025
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1980-1988 TVR 280i stats
Highest sale
$15,487
Lowest sale
$2,310
Most recent sale
$15,487
Sales
28
Photos
1 photoImage may not reflect selected vehicle.
Past sales
$15,487
1986 TVR 280i Base
17000 M
Standard
North America
Nov 19, 2024Bring a Trailer
View details
$10,032
1986 TVR 280i Base
Standard
North America
Feb 6, 2024Cars & Bids
View details
$6,300
1985 TVR 280i Base
Standard
North America
Jan 22, 2023Bring a Trailer
View details
$8,505
1983 TVR 280i Base
Standard
North America
Nov 14, 2022Bring a Trailer
View details
$7,460
1987 TVR 280i Base
82454 M
Automatic
Europe
May 17, 2022Car and Classic
View details
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Model overview
Model description
TVR replaced their long-running M-series with the wedge shaped Tasmin in 1980, available in both two-seat coupe and convertible form, with the convertible allowing for top-up, top-down, and Targa-style configurations courtesy of a smartly designed center roof panel. Oliver Winterbottom of Lotus fame designed the body, which sat on a steel tube frame. TVR relied heavily on Ford components for wheels, brakes, front suspension, the four-speed transmission, and of course the engine, which was a Ford Cologne V-6 in a 160-hp state of tune.
By the time the Tasmin reached the U.S. in 1983 it was called the TVR 280i, and the German Ford V-6 had been smogged down to 145 hp. The car did boast leather interior and burled walnut trim, but the 280i’s 0-60 time was a tad too close to 10 seconds for its $25,000 price tag, and reportedly inconsistent build quality held sales to only 1,200 or so, with most being convertibles.
Even with the stated problems noted, there is still plenty to like about the TVR 280i. It is a comfortable tourer with predictable and engaging handling traits. Not surprisingly for a low-volume British car, electrical problems can be an issue and one should also check for rust in the tube frame. With these areas considered, the TVR 280i offers hand-built exclusivity married to Ford mechanical reliability for used Mazda Miata money.
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Common Questions
The value of a 1985 TVR 280i can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $9,650 for a 1985 TVR 280i in good condition with average spec.
The highest selling price of a 1985 TVR 280i at auction over the last three years was $6,300. The highest prices are usually reserved for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or modifications and excellent history.
The lowest selling price of a 1985 TVR 280i at auction over the last three years was $6,300. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.
In the last three years there have been 1 1985 TVR 280is sold at public auction.
The most recent auction sale of a 1985 TVR 280i was $6,300 on January 22, 2023 by Bring a Trailer.
Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.
Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.
Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.
The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.