TVR’s Unveiling of the 7/12 at the 1996 British Motor Show
TVR made waves at the 1996 British Motor Show with the surprise unveiling of their latest creation, the 7/12. This unconventional sports car, based on the Cerbera model, captured everyone’s attention with its outrageous features. The 7/12 boasted a 7.7-liter V12 engine, derived from the 4.2-liter V8 found in the Cerbera. It produced a mind-boggling 660bhp and 660lb ft of torque. What set this car apart even further was its weight of less than 1000kg, achieved through the use of a composite body shell and a steel tubular spaceframe chassis. TVR’s chairman, Peter Wheeler, had ambitious plans for the car, stating that it would be used for GT racing.
The GT Racing Ambitions and Unique Design
TVR had their sights set on competing in the prestigious BPR Global GT Series. This racing series featured top-class GT1-category cars such as the Porsche 911, McLaren F1, Dodge Viper, Ferrari F40, Lotus Esprit, and Jaguar XJ220. The Speed 12, as it came to be known, was not designed to be a sophisticated road car. Wheeler made it clear that they were not targeting wealthy individuals but rather aimed to create a car that only a select few could afford. The price tag was set at £130,000, equivalent to £251,300 in today’s money. With its eye-catching design and wild features, TVR hoped to make a lasting impression.
The Impressions and Challenges Faced
Autocar’s Steve Cropley had the opportunity to experience the Speed 12 firsthand. He described the car as a thrilling ride, with acceleration from 0-100mph taking only 6.0 seconds. Cropley also noted some of the compromises that came with owning such a beast, including a bellowing engine, minimal padding in the seats, and the challenge of getting in and out of the car due to the chassis tube. Despite these drawbacks, Cropley believed that for some owners, these would only add to the car’s appeal.
The Road-Ready Version and its Downfall
TVR’s plans took a turn when they presented a road-ready GT2-compliant version at the 1999 British Motor Show. This version weighed slightly more at 1100kg and cost £160,000, but it offered a staggering 880bhp from the V12 engine. However, it quickly became apparent that the Speed 12 was too powerful and unruly for public roads. Martin Brundle, a former Formula 1 driver, expressed concerns about the car’s lack of grip at high speeds and the stiff rear suspension causing bouncing effects. Ultimately, TVR canceled production and refunded all deposits. Only one of the three road-going prototypes was sold in 2003, with Wheeler personally vetting potential buyers.
A Possible Resurrection?
In 2019, former TVR engineers announced the TR Speed 12 Turbo, a recreation of the original car. With a carbon fiber body and chassis and a 1025bhp V12 engine derived from Aston Martin, this version promised even more power and performance. However, it remained an exclusive and expensive proposition for those with deep pockets and a love for extreme machines.
While TVR’s Speed 12 may not have had a successful production run, it certainly left a lasting impression on the automotive world. Its audacious design and mind-blowing performance continue to captivate enthusiasts to this day.
