Buying a used Tuscan

[marco]

Hi

I've been looking for a replacement Griff 500 for a while now and the lack of success in finding one has me thinking about leapfrogging it with a big(er) loan and getting a used Tuscan.

I'd be looking at a £30k, 2000 W model I expect and if I'm honest having owned a super-reliable Griff in the past, the only real concern lies under the bonnet.

I'm well aware of the hysteria about what people perceive to be the unreliability of the Speed Six engine and am definitely *not* trying to start that old thread up again but I would appreciate any advice on what the current state of play is on engine longevity and Tuscan reliability in general.

For example, if a car has not required any engine work (yet) and covered say 10,000 miles is that a sign that its a good 'un or is a rebuilt one a better bet?

What mods are "must haves" to check for?

How many extras are appearing on service bills above the standard cost? (i.e. what is the real cost of servicing)

As I said, I'm not trolling for an animated debate (!) but this must be a genuine concern of a lot of people in my position. Regular costs I can plan for and I've enough TVR experience to know what I'm getting in to BUT not being independently wealthy, the potential for huge extra scary costs is another matter!

Thanks


Marco

[gazzab]

It is important to ensure that the current owner has treated the car with respect when warming it up. Dont rev it over 3k until you have done 10 miles. The mole valley web site has details. I think that too many people dont use the cars enough then they thrash them 'cold' which is asking for problems. There were, however, some engine probs that put some people off the S6 engines. But we all know that.

[fish]

Sorry I can't post much I've got a best man speak to write tonight. However e-mail me marco and I'll give you my number for a chat if you want. I currently run a std Tuscan as my only and everyday car.

[pbrettle]

I think that you have hit the nail on the head - there is a lot of hot-air about Tuscans that just doesnt stack up. The majority of owners have few or no problems and love their cars to bits. Occassionally one is not so good, but then again thats what a waranty is for...

Not sure how the deal works with the TVR waranty, but certainly the newer ones all come with a 2 year waranty on the engine. Older ones might not, but if not then spend the £500-£1000 to get it for piece of mind alone....

Personally cant wait until my upgrade - not yet, but will be doing so sometime in 2002 and might just be a Tuscan (or is a Tamora - its just so hard).

Cheers,

Paul

[Bo Nydal]

quote:
a Tuscan (or is a Tamora - its just so hard).

Paul

I'd kill for a Tuscan – but that's just me. The Tamora is dull lookiing in comparison in my opinion.

However, don't know what either drive like

[andyr]

There must be plenty of members here with Tuscans. Can't Ted run a poll to find out what owners think?
ie 1 = loads of problems, 5= no probs at all.

Just a lunchtime thought.

>> Edited by andyr on Thursday 14th February 13:40

[pbrettle]

Andyr,

Not a bad idea - we can put this Tuscan thing to bed once and for all....

Ted - what do you think?

Cheers,

Paul