Engineless

[jpf]

Sort of been following the previous thread which led me to the question--is the appeal of the TVR to us Americans a function of its styling? If that is the case, why doesn't TVR engineer for an American V8, and do a Noble?
The review of the S6 goes along the lines of great sound, weak reliability.
Sounds like the current engine is the weak link...

[orgasmicliving!!]

From TVR's perspective, it would be the wrong thing to do. They believe they have a strong identity that they need to preserve.

Second, they want to get their house in order before attempting something so ambitious as a US market push. It is a very big undertaking both financially and strategically, and right now there is no one at TVR with the experience or vision to make it succeed. And their attempts to stabilise TVR in England and Europe have not really been successful.

In reality, it could be a smart move if done right. But I think TVR will be sold once Smolenski Jr. realises that it takes more than daddy's deep pockets.

[orgasmicliving!!]

jpf said:

Sort of been following the previous thread which led me to the question--is the appeal of the TVR to us Americans a function of its styling? If that is the case, why doesn't TVR engineer for an American V8, and do a Noble? The review of the S6 goes along the lines of great sound, weak reliability. Sounds like the current engine is the weak link...

TVR's appeal lies in both the styling and the (claimed) performance of the cars. Whether they live up to their claims or not, they certainly do provide gobs of performance. The lack of refinement in their handling and steering feel used to let them down. The latest models have made big strides in these areas.

It's a very big deal to develop an engine and iron out the problems. TVR is not currently in a position to develop a new engine. They can't/won't use an existing/proven engine from someone else for the reasons outlined in my previous post.