1996 TVR Griffith 5.0L Petrol · P911 FKE

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 11 March 2026, recorded a clean pass with no advisories or defects noted, which represents the best possible outcome at the statutory roadworthiness examination. Reviewing the broader history, the vehicle has demonstrated a stable and consistent maintenance trend over the past several tests, passing in July 2022, January 2025, and March 2026. There is a single failure on record dated 12 July 2023, but this was followed by a successful retest only five days later on 17 July 2023, suggesting the issue was likely minor and rectified promptly rather than indicative of a persistent underlying fault. The absence of any advisories on either the failing or subsequent passing tests is a notably positive signal, indicating that the previous examiner did not identify any components approaching the threshold of concern at the time. For a thirty-year-old specialist vehicle, this consistent and clean MOT performance is reassuring and points to a car that has been conscientiously maintained by an owner attentive to its mechanical condition. The recorded mileage of 38,848 miles over an approximate thirty-year period equates to an annual average of around 1,295 miles, which is exceptionally low for any road vehicle and particularly so for a performance-oriented TVR. This usage pattern strongly suggests that the Griffith has likely spent extended periods laid up in storage, possibly used only seasonally or for occasional enthusiast outings rather than regular daily driving. While low mileage reduces wear on high-cycle components such as the engine internals, gearbox synchros, and clutch friction material, prolonged standing carries its own well-documented mechanical consequences. Moisture accumulation in the engine and gearbox can lead to internal corrosion, fuel system components such as hoses, seals, and the injectors can perish or degrade from disuse, and brake calipers may seize due to piston corrosion. Before purchase, it would be highly advisable to verify the continuity of mileage via the service book, old MOT certificates, and any available provenance documentation, as unusually low readings for a car of this age and type can sometimes be indicative of clock irregularities, a known concern with older British sports cars. Given the limited recorded use, a prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection focusing on the age-related deterioration of components rather than purely mileage-driven wear. Tyres fitted to a vehicle that has stood for long periods are highly susceptible to sidewall perishing and cracking from ozone exposure and UV degradation, and any tyres older than five years from their DOT date code should be replaced regardless of remaining tread depth. The 12V battery is another critical concern, as deeply discharged or chronically undercharged units suffer permanent capacity loss, and it would be prudent to load-test the battery or budget for immediate replacement. Brake components should be examined for surface corrosion on the discs, seized caliper pistons, and perished flexible hoses, all of which are common after extended inactivity. Under-bonnet checks should include the condition of all coolant and fuel hoses for signs of brittleness or weeping, the integrity of the drive belts, and the state of the air intake and cooling systems, particularly given the Griffith's reputation for demanding cooling requirements. Beyond the basic statutory items, attention should be directed towards the time-based servicing requirements that apply regardless of low mileage. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and should be renewed every two years regardless of use to prevent internal corrosion of the brake and ABS systems, and the coolant should similarly be replaced at calendar-based intervals to maintain its protective properties. The engine oil and filter should be changed on acquisition as a matter of course, as standing oil loses its additive package and can accumulate condensation. On the test drive, the buyer should listen carefully for any suspension clonks or knocking from the front and rear assemblies, which can indicate perished bushes or worn rose joints, a common wear item on TVRs of this era. Any binding or uneven braking sensation, vibration through the steering, or unusual exhaust smoke on start-up should prompt further investigation. Finally, due to the specialist nature of the Griffith and the well-documented chassis and bodywork vulnerabilities of the model, a pre-purchase inspection by a marque specialist would be highly recommended to provide confidence in areas not covered by the standard MOT examination.