The Cerbera coupe was arguably the finest car to emerge from the crazy world of TVR.
Combining 2+2 seating space with a top speed in excess of 180mph, it shocked and amazed when launched in 1996.
TVR’s own engines brought serious power, but reliability could be an issue. It led many, like the owner of this car listed for auction on The Market, to seek a replacement powertrain.
Blackpool body, Modenese heart
The affordability and dependability of Chevrolet’s LS family of engines has made them the unit of choice for upgraded TVRs. However, instead of the traditional American big-block V8, this particular Cerbera has gained some Italian soul.
Underneath the bonnet is a modern, Maserati-sourced 4.7-litre V8. The modified Cerbera serves up nearly 478hp when used in ‘full power’ mode.
With the engine set to Eco mode, however, and with the exhaust resonators in place, output drops to 446hp.
There is still a hint of American engineering included, though. A six-speed Tremec TR6060 manual transmission has been added, sourced from a 2015 Chevrolet Camaro.
Wider and wilder
TVR fans will immediately notice the new wide wheelarches, deep front splitter and prominent rear spoiler.
Other exterior changes include headlights inspired by the later TVR Tuscan, aluminium mesh grilles, and modified BMW M4 bonnet scoop to accommodate the Maserati engine.
Almost everything is finished in Candy Purple paint, with details left in gloss black. A set of 20-inch alloy wheels are likely to be even more divisive than the Italian engine.
Avant-garde interior
Just like the radical exterior, the Cerbera’s interior has also seen plenty of attention.
Front seats from a later TVR Tuscan are fitted, bringing extra support and comfort. A Tuscan has also provided the aluminium pedal box, with stainless steel trim added to the dashboard.
Completing the makeover is an elaborate retrim, with a mixture of leather and Alcantara. Diamond-stitch detailing has been used throughout, with even the boot neatly trimmed.
A unique proposition
According to The Market, the current owner of the Cerbera “drove the car like he’d stolen it” for the first 5,000 miles after completing the Maserati conversion. A total of 20,000 miles have been covered in total, with multiple pan-European trips included.
Some TVR purists may be upset by the Cerbera’s altered exterior, and the unusual choice of engine conversion. However, it still delivers the TVR mantra of excitement and performance.
Before the online auction went live, a price of £50,000 to £60,000 was suggested for the Maserati-powered Cerbera. Bidding remains open until Wednesday, 13 October.
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