TVR 290 S (1992)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 83 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
83
Avg Mileage
54,345 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 1992 TVR 290 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 32 years old, 76% of TVR 290 Ss from 1992 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 83 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 54,345 miles.
How does the 1992 TVR 290 S compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1992 TVR 290 S has 54,345 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 236,800 miles for a 32-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a TVR 290 S?
The most reliable year is the 1991 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 1992 model has the lowest at 76%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 1992 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 1992 TVR 290 S
The 1992 TVR 290 S is a performance with a 3947cc petrol engine. 83 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 1992, the average MOT pass rate is 77%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 54,345 miles at 32 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.
1992 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 1992 TVR 290 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.
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 1992 TVR 290 S
At 32 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. Note: with only 83 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 1992 TVR 290 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:
- PORSCHE 911 (1990) 91% pass rate (+15%) from 1,888 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER (1994) 80% pass rate (+4%) from 1,086 tests
- JAGUAR XJS (1993) 84% pass rate (+8%) from 925 tests
- JAGUAR XJ (1994) 86% pass rate (+10%) from 635 tests