Discussion
We need to start another argument regarding engines, safety electronics and price.
Here's my take:-
-> I hope the engine is a V8 and that it is NOT a yank lump. No idea if this is feasible but maybe an Audi or even the Yamaha/volvo V8.
-> I'd happily have traction and ABS and airbags (and better driver protection).
-> Suspect we're talking £70K minimum price but I wouldnt be surprised if the car is nearer £85K.
-> I assume there will be a convertible and 2 seater coupe (largely the same car)
-> Assume the chassis will be akin to a lotus style mix of ali, carbon and glue.
-> Gearbox a manual from launch but with plans for flappy paddle auto in due course.
-> Engines in basic tune at circa 400bhp with option for 500bhp.
-> Some snazzy electronics on the dash ie some form of tablet device used for speedo, revs, computer, sat nav, music combo
Here's my take:-
-> I hope the engine is a V8 and that it is NOT a yank lump. No idea if this is feasible but maybe an Audi or even the Yamaha/volvo V8.
-> I'd happily have traction and ABS and airbags (and better driver protection).
-> Suspect we're talking £70K minimum price but I wouldnt be surprised if the car is nearer £85K.
-> I assume there will be a convertible and 2 seater coupe (largely the same car)
-> Assume the chassis will be akin to a lotus style mix of ali, carbon and glue.
-> Gearbox a manual from launch but with plans for flappy paddle auto in due course.
-> Engines in basic tune at circa 400bhp with option for 500bhp.
-> Some snazzy electronics on the dash ie some form of tablet device used for speedo, revs, computer, sat nav, music combo
Or what about something entirely different? Partnership with an existing manufacturer and based on an existing model in their range, substantially modified to provide a TVR experience in looks, sound and driving. A coach-builder type approach for want of a better description.
To be honest I would not be an advocate of that, but I am struggling to see how they will bring a whole new vehicle to market cost effectively.
To be honest I would not be an advocate of that, but I am struggling to see how they will bring a whole new vehicle to market cost effectively.
PoleDriver said:
jpf said:
Is it possible to use a 4 cylinder (say 2.3 litre eco-tec) with 300+ BHP, and price it in the realm of $40,000 dollars? Why not make the most exciting 4 cylinder sportscar in the world that people can get in and out of?
I have spent that on mine in the last couple of years and I know other who have done the same as their is still NOTHING to touch it for both performance and style!
jpf said:
Is it possible to use a 4 cylinder (say 2.3 litre eco-tec) with 300+ BHP, and price it in the realm of $40,000 dollars? Why not make the most exciting 4 cylinder sportscar in the world that people can get in and out of?
No it isn'tThere is not enough difference in cost between the bigger engines and the eco-tec engines.
The cost of an engine depends entirely (almost) on how many are made. Not the size in cc, not the number of cylinders, not who makes it, just how many. Similarly the cost of making a car has virtually nothing to do with how big, fast or well equipped it is, it is about quantity. Quantity is why low volume cars with unique engines are expensive.
The point I was making was the 4 cylinder Ford was the root of TVR.
TVR will have a very tough time competing against Mclaren, Ferrari, etc. Isn't it better to compete in the Alfa 4C space and be the British alternative to the 4C? Could TVR price their 4 cylinder sportscar below a basic Porsche Cayman?
People buying Ferrari/Aston/Mclaren are purchasing the name. TVR has been out of the game for a while. Either they need to be able to offer Aston performance for 60% of the price to re-build their name or, pursue a different market. The idea of using an exotic Audi/BMW motor would be a catastrophic mistake--too pricey.
Would you pay a 50% premium over a MX-5 for a 4 cylinder TVR? With a TVR interior, TVR style, yes I would.
TVR will have a very tough time competing against Mclaren, Ferrari, etc. Isn't it better to compete in the Alfa 4C space and be the British alternative to the 4C? Could TVR price their 4 cylinder sportscar below a basic Porsche Cayman?
People buying Ferrari/Aston/Mclaren are purchasing the name. TVR has been out of the game for a while. Either they need to be able to offer Aston performance for 60% of the price to re-build their name or, pursue a different market. The idea of using an exotic Audi/BMW motor would be a catastrophic mistake--too pricey.
Would you pay a 50% premium over a MX-5 for a 4 cylinder TVR? With a TVR interior, TVR style, yes I would.
The last time TVR had a 4 cylinder engine was the 1970's--from what I can tell. If you are going to re-build the brand, start at a reasonable price point. I'd even sign up for 4 cylinder TVR's built out of South Africa to keep costs competitive.
Can TVR sell an 8 cylinder car at a 50% premium over a Mustang (ok, I'll even allow for a Corvette)? If so, they can pull it off. If they think they are going to compete against Ferrari, the TVR rocket will never launch.
They need to re-build the brand first.
Can TVR sell an 8 cylinder car at a 50% premium over a Mustang (ok, I'll even allow for a Corvette)? If so, they can pull it off. If they think they are going to compete against Ferrari, the TVR rocket will never launch.
They need to re-build the brand first.
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