Wednesday 13th April 2011

PH Buying Guide: TVR Griffith - Interior

---

The Griffith's cabin is a sumptuous place to be, and is not as quirky as some later TVR models'. Almost all with have hard-wearing leather seats, though some earlier cars may have a mix of fabric and hide. Air conditioning is a desirable option, but should be checked for effectiveness or budget for a re-gas.

The driving position is excellent and offers space for taller drivers, while the reclining seats have plenty of support. Simple, individual round dials are easy to read, but make sure all of the gauges work as it's usually smaller electrical problems that irk on TVRs of this age.

Seat belts and carpets are good indicators of a Griffith's overall condition. Look for water damage from leaky roofs and general wear that tallies with the mileage. Also study the walnut veneered dash for any lifting varnish, and try the boot electric boot release.

Another clue as to a Griffith's age is early cars had a speedo and rev counter with needles that sweep from right to left, while later cars changed to the more conventional left-right sweep. Later cars also gained aluminium surrounds for the dials.

1) Introduction
2) Powertrain
3) Body
4) Rolling Chassis
5) Interior (reading now)
6) Insurance quotes
7) TVR Griffiths in the PH classifieds now...

[LordGrover]

Not aware of any fabric and hide interiors although the half-hide standard offering was some kind of PVC/plastic affair in some places. Early speedos and tachos started from 1 o'clock rather than the more conventional 7 o'clock - still run clockwise though.

[Mr MoJo]

Some very very early cars had fabric centres to the seats.

[LordGrover]

Blimey. I live and learn.
I wonder how many Griffs, precats in particular I've seen over the years and never seen one...
Cheers Mr Mojo - see you soon eh?

[Mr MoJo]

Long time no see LG.

I've only ever seen 2 and they looked nasty tbh. One was for sale on here about 6 mths or so ago if my memory serves me right. I would think if there were many others produced they may have had retrims by now anyway.

Must catch up soon, Castle Combe season starting shortly I believe

[LordGrover]

Yep. I'm away so will miss the first meet but will be there for pretty much everything else. Chatting to spend this morning and thinking of popping up to Chatsworth now. Will let you know if I do.

[MattW]

LordGrover said:

Not aware of any fabric and hide interiors although the half-hide standard offering was some kind of PVC/plastic affair in some places. Early speedos and tachos started from 1 o'clock rather than the more conventional 7 o'clock - still run clockwise though.

Funily enough there is one for sale in the classifieds with half leather and cloth (Juniper green); never seen one like it before, didn't know they existed!

[Mr MoJo]

LordGrover said:

Yep. I'm away so will miss the first meet but will be there for pretty much everything else. Chatting to spend this morning and thinking of popping up to Chatsworth now. Will let you know if I do.

Will be good to see you up there. I'm flying solo this year, Mrs MoJo didn't fancy another one !! Speak soon

eta This one has cloth inserts - http://www.track-days.co.uk/sales/2715812.htm

Edited by Mr MoJo on Wednesday 13th April 17:01