1987 TVR 350i In 1982, TVR – then recently bought by Peter Wheeler – addressed their new owner’s desire for a more powerful model by introducing the Rover V8-powered 350i.

This car was based on the similarly wedge-shaped but V6-powered Tasmin 280i, and as with all TVRs, it featured a tubular spaceframe steel chassis.

Also common to other TVRs, the running gear, electrical parts and many trim pieces were sourced from a variety of mainstream manufacturers.

The steering and front suspension were Ford-sourced; the rear axle Jaguar; the five-speed gearbox Rover.

The end result, however, was a uniquely TVR product; an exciting, lightweight sports car.

With 190bhp now on tap from the Rover SD1-sourced engine – rising to 197bhp in 1985 – the 350i was a very fast car for the time, with 60 arriving in around 6.5 seconds, and a top speed of almost 140mph.

The interior was surprisingly luxurious, with a polished wooden dashboard and comfortable seats, and this coupled to the smooth, torque...