The TVR Tuscan 4.0 i 24V S, produced between 2000 and 2006, represents a high-performance iteration of TVR’s flagship sports car. Positioned as the top-tier engine option within the Tuscan range, the 4.0 i 24V S delivered significantly more power than the lower-spec models, appealing to drivers seeking an uncompromising driving experience. It was built upon the TVR Tuscan chassis, a lightweight, hand-built structure designed for agility and responsiveness. The Tuscan, in general, aimed to provide a raw, visceral driving experience, eschewing many of the electronic driver aids common in contemporary sports cars.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | TVR |
| Model | Tuscan |
| Generation | Tuscan |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 i 24V S (396 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2006 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 20 l/100 km (11.8 US mpg, 14.1 UK mpg, 5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 15 l/100 km (15.7 US mpg, 18.8 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 314 km/h (195.11 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 2.8 kg/Hp, 360 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 381.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 396 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 99.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 5250 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3996 cm3 (243.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 275 l (9.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4235 mm (166.73 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1200 mm (47.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2360 mm (92.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Rear track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/35 ZR18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tuscan 4.0 i 24V S is its 3996cc inline-six engine. This engine, designated as the TVR Speed Six, was designed and built in-house by TVR, representing a departure from their previous reliance on Rover V8 engines. The engine features a naturally aspirated configuration, utilizing multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 11.1:1 compression ratio contributes to the engine’s high output. The engine’s layout is longitudinal, driving the rear wheels. The 5-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine, emphasizing the car’s sporting intentions. The Speed Six engine was known for its responsiveness and a distinctive, raw exhaust note.
Driving Characteristics
The Tuscan 4.0 i 24V S delivers exhilarating performance. The 396 horsepower and 309.78 lb-ft of torque, combined with the relatively lightweight chassis (around 2425 lbs), result in a 0-60 mph time of just 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 195.11 mph. The manual transmission provides precise control, although the gear ratios are closely spaced, requiring frequent shifting to maintain optimal power delivery. The car’s handling is sharp and direct, thanks to its double wishbone front suspension and spring strut rear suspension. However, the lack of electronic stability control means that the driver must exercise considerable skill and caution, particularly in adverse conditions. Compared to lower-powered Tuscans, the 4.0 i 24V S offers a significantly more intense driving experience, demanding greater driver involvement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Tuscan 4.0 i 24V S was generally well-equipped, though TVR offered a high degree of customization. Standard features included leather upholstery, power windows, and central locking. Air conditioning was often specified as an option. The interior design was minimalist and driver-focused, with a simple dashboard layout and supportive sports seats. Customers could choose from a range of interior trim colors and materials. Exterior options included various paint colors and alloy wheel designs. The emphasis was on providing a performance-oriented package rather than luxurious appointments.
Chassis & Braking
The Tuscan’s chassis is a steel spaceframe, hand-built by TVR. This construction method allowed for a lightweight and rigid structure, contributing to the car’s excellent handling. The suspension system, featuring double wishbones at the front and spring struts at the rear, was tuned for sporty driving. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, assisted by an anti-lock braking system (ABS). The braking performance is adequate for the car’s performance capabilities, but the system lacks the sophistication of more modern sports cars.
Market Reception & Comparison
The TVR Tuscan 4.0 i 24V S was generally well-received by automotive journalists, who praised its performance, handling, and distinctive styling. However, the car’s lack of refinement, build quality issues, and limited practicality were also noted. Compared to other sports cars in its price range, such as the Porsche 911, the Tuscan offered a more raw and visceral driving experience, but at the expense of comfort and reliability. Fuel economy was predictably poor, with figures of around 11.8 US mpg in urban driving and 15.7 US mpg on the highway. The 4.0 i 24V S represented the pinnacle of the Tuscan range, offering the highest level of performance and exclusivity.
Legacy
The TVR Tuscan 4.0 i 24V S remains a sought-after sports car among enthusiasts. The Speed Six engine, while not known for its longevity, is a charismatic and powerful unit. The car’s lightweight construction and engaging handling continue to appeal to drivers who appreciate a pure, unfiltered driving experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of the TVR’s reputation for reliability issues and the challenges of sourcing parts. The Tuscan 4.0 i 24V S is a reminder of a time when TVR produced uniquely characterful and uncompromising sports cars.
