TVR 290 S (1991)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 145 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
92%
Total Tests (2024)
145
Avg Mileage
68,175 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,097
Is the 1991 TVR 290 S reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 10 points above the national average of 82%.
At 33 years old, 92% of TVR 290 Ss from 1991 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 145 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 68,175 miles.
How does the 1991 TVR 290 S compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1991 TVR 290 S has 68,175 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 244,200 miles for a 33-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 1991 TVR 290 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.
TVR 290 S by Year
Checking a specific TVR 290 S?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1991 TVR 290 S
The 1991 TVR 290 S is a performance with a 3947cc petrol engine. 145 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 9% of all 1991 cars for reliability.
With an average of 68,175 miles at 33 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.
1991 TVR 290 S Fuel Costs
The 3947cc 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 1991 TVR 290 S?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,097 (£175/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 92% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
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 1991 TVR 290 S
At 33 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.
Alternatives to the 1991 TVR 290 S
The TVR 290 S is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- PORSCHE 911 (1990) 91% pass rate (-1%) from 1,888 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER (1993) 81% pass rate (-11%) from 1,021 tests
- JAGUAR XJS (1993) 84% pass rate (-8%) from 925 tests
- TVR GRIFFITH (1992) 88% pass rate (-4%) from 517 tests