Tuscan V6, RHD, Ford Essex V6 99,190 mls., Bj. 04.1970,
This TVR Tuscan V6 is currently undergoing preparation in our workshop and will be available for pre-sale viewing by mid June 2018. DWY 515H has had a total of 7 owners. References to four of these are contained in the paperwork we have for the car.
This Tuscan V6 was supplied in kit form via the TVR agent AB Gelder, to a Mr Schofield in Yorkshire on 15 Apr 70. (This arrangement meant that Purchase Tax (precursor to VAT) would not need to have been added to the list price). The car was finished by TVR in Regal Red, a colour derived from Rolls Royce’s colour options at the time. Paperwork on file makes reference to an overdrive. The car was first registered on 20 Apr 70. (The kits were easy to complete) Information contained in the file records that the current speedometer was installed in 1989. Calculations indicate that, although it now reads 57,137 miles, the car has actually covered 99,190 miles.
The file contains an advert, published in 2007, which states that the 3.0 litre Ford Essex V6 engine was rebuilt in March that year at an indicated mileage of 50,068 (so has covered just 7,079 miles) This engine rebuild included big valve heads (converted for unleaded petrol), competition timing gears, a fast road camshaft and a Weber 40DF15 carburettor, which increased power substantially over the OE spec. All this work was carried out by a respected motorsport mechanic. At about the same time the car had a full respray. ALL the old paint was removed and the car was refinished in Bordeaux Red. In parallel, the interior was re-trimmed in black leather, piped with dark red, and new carpets were fitted. It was at this time that a specially made, French-Polished, Burr Elm Dashboard was installed, which replaced the original vinyl-covered dash. Matching Burr Walnut door cappings were also manufactured and incorporated. The OE TVR steering wheel was replaced by a Motolita period equivalent version in wood and aluminium.
There is a lengthy list of further upgrades and improvements recorded in this advert. It is evident that this Restoration was extensive and would have been expensive. The file contains a few other relevant invoices but, most significantly, one bill is for a “full body off the chassis” procedure carried out by Classic World Racing when corroded outriggers needed replacement. This work was invoiced in Oct 2014. At the same time the car’s GAZ Gold shocks were replaced with AVO adjustable shock absorbers.
Right now, this very handsome classic TVRe (one of only 110 built) is undergoing comprehensive preparation by Str8six. Apart from a thorough mechanical review, full service and rectification, the car is again having new carpets fitted throughout. DWY 515H will be ready to inspect by the middle of June.