1971 TVR M

This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Classic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2026 on Sunday the 15th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. Estimated price: GBP 12,000 - GBP 16,000.

Introduced in 1972, the M Series represented a significant step forward for TVR, combining its familiar lightweight glassfibre two-seat coupé formula with a new tubular backbone chassis and independent suspension

The 1600M was the four-cylinder member of the family, powered as standard by Ford's 1,598cc Kent Crossflow producing around 86bhp and driving through a four-speed manual gearbox. Just 148 examples were produced across its two production runs, making it one of the rarer M-Series derivatives

The car retains a Ford Kent Crossflow engine, recorded on the vehicle documentation as 1,698cc rather than the standard 1,598cc. The precise internal specification has not been verified, however a number of upgrades are clearly evident including a tubular four-branch exhaust manifold, alloy rocker cover and K&N-style air filter

Further improvements are visible within the engine bay, including an upgraded radiator and electric cooling fan, alloy coolant tank and braided hoses, suggesting that usability and cooling have been given some consideration during the car's life

Originally finished in blue, this 1600M is now in a wonderfully period shade of bright orange, the car presenting well, complemented by black and polished alloy wheels

The cabin is equally smart, trimmed in light grey with matching seats, transmission tunnel and dashboard surround, whilst the traditional timber dashboard and Mountney steering wheel complete a particularly attractive interior

The odometer currently displays 30,975 miles, although this figure has not been warranted

Importantly, CVN 647L comes from the esteemed collection of the late Bob Shepherd, a well-known and generous Scottish collector, and subsequently resided on display at the Grampian Transport Museum for many years

Offered as a running and driving car, however, having spent an extended period as a museum display piece, we would recommend a degree of further recommissioning before returning it to regular road use

Rare, characterful and very attractively presented, this early 1600M combines genuine scarcity with interesting upgrades and excellent provenance, and should make a particularly enjoyable lightweight British sports car once fully recommissioned