2001 TVR Griffith 500 SE

No. 13 - 100 - A rare opportunity to acquire one of the final TVR Griffiths built.

2001 Griffith 500 Special Edition – No. 13 – 100.

Launched in the early 1990s, the TVR Griffith quickly earned a reputation as one of the most exciting British sports cars of its time. With curvaceous styling, a lightweight body, and powerful V8 engine, the Griffith delivers a raw and engaging driving experience that helped define TVR’s identity.

The Griffith 500, introduced later in the model’s life, features a 5.0 litre V8 producing around 340bhp, offering exceptional performance with a 0 – 60mph time of just over four seconds. With no driver aids like ABS or traction control, the Griffith remains unapologetically analogue, rewarding drivers with a thrilling connection to the road.

Built on a simple tubular steel chassis, and paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, the Griffith was aimed at enthusiasts looking for a purist’s sports car. Despite its performance, the interior retained a touch of luxury, with leather trim and a driver-focused cabin.

TVR Griffith 500 SE (Special Edition)

In 2000, TVR announced the end of Griffith production. To mark the occasion, the company built a limited run of just 100 Special Edition (SE) cars between 2000 and 2002, with the final cars registered as late as 2003.

While mechanically similar to the standard 500, the SE featured several visual and interior upgrades that distinguished it as a unique final edition. Externally, SE models came with clear indicator lenses, updated rear light clusters, revised door mirrors, and higher-powered headlights. Some were also fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the 500 SE combined the best elements from other TVR models, including the Chimaera dashboard and Cerbera seats, offering a more modern and comfortable interior layout. Each car was fitted with a numbered plaque in the glovebox denoting its build number, and a Special Edition badge on the boot. A quirky and characterful detail was the signature hidden under the boot carpet, unique to each SE.

Though specifications varied slightly between cars, as was typical with TVR, every SE was hand-built with close attention to detail and personalised touches.

2001 TVR Griffith 500 SE – No. 13 of 100

A rare opportunity to acquire one of the final TVR Griffiths built, this 2001 TVR Griffith 500 Special Edition, build number 13 of 100, is finished in Paris Blue with a beautifully trimmed Prussian Blue and Portland Grey full leather interior.

First registered on 1st March 2001 and supplied new by Kerridges, this car comes with an extensive and well-documented service history, as well as its original build certificate confirming key factory options. These include:

– Hydratrak limited-slip differential

– Air conditioning (rare)

– Colour-coded steering wheel

– Uprated speakers with 6-disc CD changer

– Blue hood

– Alloy switchgear throughout

– 16″ 7-spoke Estoril wheels

– Stainless steel dashboard

In addition to its standard SE specification, the car has had several tasteful enhancements, including a Modwise boot kit, light kit, and 2-stage cooling kit for improved usability and reliability.

A full engine rebuild was completed by Mat Smith Sports Cars in January 2023, ensuring it is in excellent mechanical health for its next owner.

Having only covered 36,000 miles, this Griffith SE has had just two long-term owners from new. The first, based in Colchester, owned the car from 2001 to 2011, after which it was acquired by the current owner from Kerridges, who has cherished it since. It has been regularly maintained by Kerridges TVR, Austec Racing, and Mat Smith Sports Cars, with detailed records covering over two decades of ownership.

A full-service record is available, including:

– 18 documented services from 2001 to 2020

– Engine rebuild in 2023

The car is offered with a comprehensive history file, including the original build certificate, invoices from the start of ownership, full book pack and previous MOTs. The car is also accompanied by a complete original tool kit, fitted car cover, trimmed seat cushion, and roof storage bag.

One of just 100 TVR Griffith 500 SEs, this example, No. 13, combines rare specification, desirable factory options, and tasteful enhancements. Finished in a standout colour combination and supported by a superb service history and recent engine rebuild, this Griffith SE represents a unique opportunity to own a cherished and well-sorted example of one of TVR’s most celebrated models.