TVR GRIFFITH 500 (1997)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 216 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
92%
Total Tests (2024)
216
Avg Mileage
50,729 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,097
Is the 1997 TVR GRIFFITH 500 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 10 points above the national average of 82%.
At 27 years old, 92% of TVR GRIFFITH 500s from 1997 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 216 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 50,729 miles.
How does the 1997 TVR GRIFFITH 500 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1997 TVR GRIFFITH 500 has 50,729 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 199,800 miles for a 27-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 GRIFFITH 500?
The most reliable year is the 1996 model with a 96% MOT pass rate, while the 1994 model has the lowest at 88%. The 1997 sits between the two at 92%.
How much does a 1997 TVR GRIFFITH 500 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 GRIFFITH 500 by Year
Checking a specific TVR GRIFFITH 500?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1997 TVR GRIFFITH 500
The 1997 TVR GRIFFITH 500 is a performance with a 4988cc petrol engine. 216 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 7% of all 1997 cars for reliability.
With an average of 50,729 miles at 27 years old, TVR GRIFFITH 500 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.
1997 TVR GRIFFITH 500 Fuel Costs
The 4988cc 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 1997 TVR GRIFFITH 500?
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 GRIFFITH 500 Reliability Trend
The TVR GRIFFITH 500 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 1 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1997 TVR GRIFFITH 500
At 27 years old, the TVR GRIFFITH 500 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 1996 model has the highest pass rate at 96%.
Alternatives to the 1997 TVR GRIFFITH 500
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES SL (1997) 87% pass rate (-5%) from 2,117 tests
- TVR CHIMAERA (1999) 88% pass rate (-4%) from 1,468 tests
- ROLLS ROYCE SILVER SERAPH (1998) 93% pass rate (+1%) from 306 tests
- BMW M5 (1999) 89% pass rate (-3%) from 229 tests