S over a 3000m

[hobson]

I've been genning up on the S when I came across a few 3000ms for sale and as I'm not that fussed about top down I thought it might be a cheaper option.

As this is the S forum I'm keen to get contrasting views on the pros and cons. By all means be partisan, I've placed a similar post in the 'classic' forum.

Other factors, I'm not a star mechanic, oil change and plugs, but don't mind driving something a bit oily.

I was going to spend £5-6k on an S but perhalps get a 3000m for 3-4k

Cheers

Mike

[tvrdave]

Hi Mike I’m your man. I had a 3000M with the Essex V6 blew that up and put in a 5.0 Mustang motor. The 3000M was and is a great car I loved it. I couldn’t believe that a car could handle much better. The Essex was a good strong motor very torquey and good speed. The handling of the 3000M was tight and good on ramps and corners. Then I sold it in October 2003 and I bought a 1990 S2. All bets are off on the M. The handling on the S2 is like a Go-cart. It sticks to the road like S**T to a blanket and corners like it is on rails. Over all the S is just a better handling car with the same performance but much more civilized to live with. More comfortable. And don’t very knock top down driving. Try the M as the exhaust fumes roll up the back in the windows and the sunroof and you smell like gas because you are sharing space with the gas tank. I love my S2 we will be together a long time. Unless I can afford a Griffith.


Dave

[Podie]

I don't think you're comparing like with like... I think the best option is to try and drive a few of each and then make your decision..

[hobson]

Thanks guys, I'm starting to get the picture.

The one thing that's been drummed in to me is whatever I do don't get the first I see, even if you 'think' you are letting an exceptional one go.

I shall try out a couple a 3000ms.

I'd love a griff too, considered it, they are lovely but I can't justify the cost at the moment.

Cheers

Mike

[Chingers]

Had both and loved both. Firstly I'd agree with Podie try them both and see what you think. Secondly it depends a great deal on what you want them for. I use mine as the daily car to work so my priorities are very different from someone who just wants it for a weekend car. Personally I prefered the double wishbone rear suspension of the M over the trailing arm of the S. The 4 speed box on the M definitely has its limitations on dual carriageways etc and means you will struggle to keep above 20mpg but the torque of the Essex is vastly superior to the 2.8 or early 2.9s. I started my TVR life with an M then when someone trashed it I replaced it with an S1 because it was a soft top. When I had to replace the the S1 I thought long and hard about which way to go but ultimately the daily useability and soft top factors won the day.
The choice is yours.
Chris P.

[Podie]

It might be worth mailing Sledgedog... I THINK (not 100% sure) he had a 3000M before his S3...

[hobson]

The more I research it, the S is best for my needs. Going to get the bible and get moving, before winter sets in! Probably engage the services of Mr Ingleby though.

Cheers

Hope to be OTR soon.