TVR 280 S (1990)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 49 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
49
Avg Mileage
67,584 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 1990 TVR 280 S reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the TVR brand average of 90%.
At 34 years old, 76% of TVR 280 Ss from 1990 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 49 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 67,584 miles.
How does the 1990 TVR 280 S compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1990 TVR 280 S has 67,584 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 251,600 miles for a 34-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
How much does a 1990 TVR 280 S cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
Checking a specific TVR 280 S?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1990 TVR 280 S
The 1990 TVR 280 S is a large car with a 2933cc petrol engine. 49 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 1990, the average MOT pass rate is 79%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 67,584 miles at 34 years old, TVR 280 S owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
1990 TVR 280 S Fuel Costs
The 2933cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1990 TVR 280 S?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
Buying a Used 1990 TVR 280 S
At 34 years old, the TVR 280 S is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. Note: with only 49 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 1990 TVR 280 S
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES 300 (1992) 83% pass rate (+7%) from 1,096 tests
- PORSCHE 911 (1991) 91% pass rate (+15%) from 929 tests
- PORSCHE 944 (1990) 85% pass rate (+9%) from 914 tests
- MERCEDES SL (1992) 87% pass rate (+11%) from 312 tests