First S6 drive, was it representative?

[LeeHodges]

So, I've just had my first experience of driving (or even being in) a S6 engined car after owning a Griffith 500 for 16 years. I've fancied a change for a few years now and have always looked at the Tamora as a possible upgrade. I knew that the general engine characteristics are a lot different on the S6 from the V8 but as I've only driven one I've nothing to compare my experience to. I know it would be sensible to drive another for comparison but there's just not that many around. So I wanted to ask if my limited experience was typical by those in the know. It's always hard on a test drive when the garage representative is sitting with you, when your trying to navigate potholes, attempting to learn the biting point and then there's those floor-mounted pedals to deal with!

Eventually I got onto a straight bit of tarmac and at around 40-50mph I pushed down on the loud pedal, which would in the Griff result in a good shunt from the rear and you'd be pushed forward. But in the tamora nothing really happened. Is this sort of behaviour normal for the 3.6 S6? I know power is delivered in a different way in these cars so maybe I need to change my expectations / driving style?

Thanks folks

Lee

[LeeHodges]

Oh, ok. Again, I am coming into this a bit blind as it were. Yes, I was in 4th so that'd explain it. I guess I just wanted to ensure it wasn't an issue with that car. I have to decide if the S6 suits me as a driver. Out of interest, does anyone know anything about the white tamora at Selby TVR? The present owner had a full engine rebuild by trackVroad.

[LeeHodges]

Thanks for that, Tom. I'm trying to see if I can keep the Griff for a while whilst buying the Tamora as I've done a lot of work on my Griff; it's a lovely car and I'd never forgive myself if I let it go for something I then sold on as I couldn't live with it.

[LeeHodges]

I wonder how my wife would live with being a passenger in a car that I've got to "provoke" :-)

[LeeHodges]

TVRinBFG said:

Hi Lee - I find when doing Speed Six TVR back to back test drives, the customer nearly always prefers the second car they drive, even if the first car is actually better to drive. So another car, or a second test drive, might help you make up your mind? And given the choice between a Griffith and a Tamora, I prefer the Tamora - it handles better; you can use more of the power more of the time; and it's quicker.

Hi beemercaf - what tyres and sizes have you gone for on your 17" alloys? You got a photo of the car you can post up? It's something I've been thinking about trying on my own Tamora.

I think you're right; anyone in Staffordshire got a standard Tamora they're willing to take me out in / discuss the nuts and bolts of?

[LeeHodges]

Speed 3 said:

Also the stupid question, did you actually floor it all the way ? The pedal travel is extraordinarily long

I didn't, I have to say. I knew there was supposed to be a long pedal but on my test drive I just didn't feel ready to test its length! Given what you've all said, I feel assured that the engine will perform for me, despite that I've got to reprogram my driving brain.

[LeeHodges]

chris watton said:

Once you realise the difference in the power bands between the old RV8 and S6, you'll find the former is more like a old diesel engine, plenty of oomph when you first press the loud pedal and then it's all gone!

I agree, Chris. My wife thinks I'm mad but there have been times where I've felt the V8 left me wanting at times.

[LeeHodges]

Thanks all, you're helping a lot. What're they like at lower speeds around town/traffic? I find that with the v8 you have to be very engaged somehow.

[LeeHodges]

It looks academic for me right now anyway as the seller has told the grarage that he's changed his mind and is keeping the car

[LeeHodges]

Yeh, not sure about the colour either on that one. The interior especially as it looks almost yellow, although I'm sure it's better in the flesh. I do like this one but am not sure about the extreme low mileage on a S6:

http://www.go-vehicles.co.uk/used-TVR-TAMORA-Leeds...

[LeeHodges]

Kingy220 said:

I know of a very nice red 06 Tam that may be for sale if interested.

Sounds interesting, although an 06 could prove expensive...

[LeeHodges]

That does look like a better interior picture I must say. The silver car's an odd one; the carpets are coming away from the sills and there's a few chunks out of some of the seals. Looks like it's done more than 3k, but I admit I haven't seen it in the flesh.

[LeeHodges]

TVRinBFG said:

Can vouch for kingy220's car too, having owned it twice!.

That does look nice, although it says Reserved.

[LeeHodges]

Kingy220 said:

That's the ad from three years ago when I purchased from MADS.

If you are interested drop me a mail.

The Green one at TVR Mads is also very nice too.

I may yet, Kingy220. I'm keeping my options open!