Between 1996 and 2003 TVR channeled the guard dog Cerberus to the underworld, according to Greek legend, by offering the Cerbera for sale. It was the first 2+2 offered by TVR and also the first car to use TVR’s own engine range. Note that TVR actually refer to their 2+2 solution as a 3+1 solution where the passenger seat slides further forward than the driver seat to give better legroom behind it.
As a rule I find dashboard layouts in TVRs uninspiring and small – see the T350 and the Tuscan Speed Six models for examples of what I mean. The dashboard in the Cerbera was not along the same lines as the tiny dashboards in these models though – more dials were presented meaning that a bespoke steering wheel was also present in this car.
Facelifted for the 2000 model year, the headlights were changed to resemble the Tuscan while the car went on a diet through the adoption of lighter bodywork.
TVR’s own engine
TVR had always bought V8 engines from Rover, but once BMW bought them out TVR decided to make their own powerplants in case the engine ceased production. To live up to expectations the engine was designed with a flat plane crank on a 75 degree V8 layout that followed F1 engine design.
TVR Cerbera Speed Six (1999) – Vital Statistics
| Power | 261 kW (350 bhp) @ 7200 rpm | |
| Torque | 448 Nm (330 lb/ft) @ 5000 rpm | |
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | 4.4 seconds | |
| Maximum speed | 257 km/h (160 mph) | |
| Fuel consumption (average) | n/a | |
| Fuel type, tank capacity | Petrol, 65 litres | |
| Weight | 1130 kg | |
| **** | **** | |
| Engine | TVR Speed Six Engine, DOHC, Dry sump lubrication, Throttle-body fuel injection, All aluminium engine block, Finger follower 24-valve actuation | |
| Displacement | 3996 cc | |
| Cylinders and valves | Inline 6, 24v | |
| Transmission | 5 speed manual | |
| Drivetrain | RWD |