TVR Grantura

Lore & Background

The Grantura went through a series of developments leading to the Mark I through Mark IV and 1800S models. The Mark I used a fibreglass body moulded to a tubular steel backbone chassis with VW Beetle-based front and rear suspension, paired with an inboard MGA differential and Austin-Healey 100M inboard drum brakes. Approximately 100 Mark I cars were built from 1958 to 1960. The Mark II/IIa introduced MGA engines as standard, front disc brakes, and rack and pinion steering; about 400 were built.

The Mark III series featured a new, longer, stiffer chassis designed by John Thurner, with coil sprung independent suspension. The Mark III 1800 used the 1798cc BMC B-series engine, and the 1800S introduced a cut-off square back called a 'Manx tail' with Ford Cortina rear light clusters. After a pause in production in late 1965, under Martin Lilley's new ownership the 1800S reappeared rebadged as the Mark III 1800S, followed by the Mk IV with a longer wheelbase and larger fuel tank. Approximately 300 of the Mark III, Mark III 1800, 1800S, and Mk IV cars were built before being replaced in 1967 by the Vixen.

Reader's Guide

The TVR Grantura is notable as the foundation of the TVR marque, establishing the pattern of hand-built, lightweight fibreglass-bodied sports cars using a mix of proprietary components. Its advanced rear suspension—independent with inboard brakes and universal joints—was ahead of its time. The Grantura's significance in historic racing is particularly tied to the Mark III 1800 model, homologated in April 1964, which allowed a limited slip differential and wider wheel rims. A June 1965 homologation extension permitted even wider wheels, making that specification the ultimate form for pre-1966 competition.

The car's light weight and good handling allow it to be effective against larger-engined cars. The earlier 1622cc Mark III cars built to the August 1962 specification are eligible for high-profile Pre-63 events including the Classic Le Mans. The Grantura's chassis, designed by John Thurner, formed the basis for TVR cars up to the launch of the 2500M in 1972.

Did You Know?

• The Grantura's spare wheel had to be removed through the front doors.
• Only around 30 to 35 examples of the Grantura are thought to have left the factory in true Mk III 1800 specification.