1971 TVR Tuscan news, pictures, and information

In 1947, the British-based TVR Company was formed by Trevor Wilkinson. The first was a modified light-alloy two-seater Alvis Firebird. It was dubbed the TVR, using letters from his first name. Within a few years, TVR Engineering was creating tubular chassis for local racing enthusiasts. By the mid-1950s, the operation had expanded to include the US, where racing was ripe and growing.

Throughout the years, TVR began expanding their product line to include high-performance Coupes such as the Grantura and Griffith series. These lightweight vehicles were nimble and quick. Next came the Tuscan which continued the sporty pedigree, being clothed in a fiberglass body, fitted with a tubular steel chassis, and incorporating an independent suspension setup.

There were a total of 28 examples of the first series of the Tuscan. The Tuscan MKI rested on a short 85-inch wheelbase and powered by a Ford 289 cubic-inch V8 engine. Most were sent to the US distributor, Garry Sagerman, accounting for 24 of 28 units. Some of these were given a 195 horsepower Ford 289 engine.

The next generation of the Tuscan had styling changes, most notably in the rear. There were different tail lamps and a newly restyled hood.

At the 1968 New York Auto Show, an announcement was made for 21 examples of the 'wide-body' SE V8 models.

Beginning near the close of 1969, a 3.0-liter V6 version became available. A total of 101 examples of this generation would be created with the Ford 'Essex' engine lurking under the bonnet. A larger V8 version soon followed and due to the low production numbers, was exempt from meeting the U.S. safety standards. The coupes were updated to comply with emissions requirements.

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