TVR 290 S (1990)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 90 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,427
£202/month
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Good
Road Tax
£430
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 30-42
2933cc Petrol
Solid Option
82% pass rate, £2427/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~30 mpg
Based on 2933cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the TVR brand average of 90%.
At 36 years old, 82% of TVR 290 Ss from 1990 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 90 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 85,188 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
85,188
Average miles
266,400
Expected for age
The average 1990 TVR 290 S has 85,188 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 266,400 miles for a 36-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 1991 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 1992 model has the lowest at 76%. The 1990 sits between the two at 82%.
TVR 290 S by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 1990 TVR 290 S
The 1990 TVR 290 S is a large car with a 2933cc petrol engine. 90 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 1990, the average MOT pass rate is 79%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 85,188 miles at 36 years old, TVR 290 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 290 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 290 S?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,427 (£202/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £430 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
TVR 290 S Reliability Trend
The TVR 290 S has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1990 TVR 290 S
At 36 years old, the TVR 290 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. If you're flexible on year, the 1991 model has the highest pass rate at 92%. Note: with only 90 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 1990 TVR 290 S's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 36 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Oil Consumption
Medium riskLarger petrol engines can develop higher oil consumption as they age. Check the oil level and look for blue smoke from the exhaust.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Medium riskWith an average of 85k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 1990 TVR 290 S stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TVR 290 S(1990) | 82% | £1592 | £430 | Grp 30-42 | £2427 |
| MERCEDES 300(1992) | 83% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2247-£180 |
| PORSCHE 911(1991) | 91% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 35-50 | £2097-£330 |
| PORSCHE 944(1990) | 85% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2247-£180 |
| MERCEDES SL(1992) | 87% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2247-£180 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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