A rare 1974 TVR 2500M has been unveiled at the DFW Car & Toy Museum following a complete ground-up restoration. This fiberglass-bodied coupe, now part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection, underwent a body-off refurbishment that addressed every mechanical and aesthetic component, transforming it into a functional showcase of 1970s performance driving with contemporary reliability.
The restoration focused extensively on the car's mechanical heart—a 2.5-liter inline-six engine originally from Triumph, which was rebuilt in 2016. Enhancements include dual Zenith Stromberg carburetors, a stainless Borla exhaust system, a Wizard aluminum radiator, programmable electronic ignition, and a ceramic-coated cast iron manifold. These modifications ensure the powertrain delivers both period-correct character and modern dependability, a crucial balance for preserving historically significant vehicles.
Beyond the engine, the car's chassis, suspension, brakes, and powertrain received meticulous attention. Adjustable coil-over dampers smooth the ride, while replaced suspension bushings, wheel bearings, and braking components improve handling and safety. The interior features a leather-wrapped Astrali steering wheel and classic Smiths instrumentation, complemented by a custom cooling system engineered for reliability. Distinctive design elements like the pop-up glass sunroof, Perspex wraparound rear window, and Monza-style fuel filler underscore its retro appeal.
Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the car's historical significance, noting that TVRs were celebrated for their raw, driver-focused appeal. The restoration reflects a labor of love, aiming to share this automotive artifact with the public. The museum, located in Fort Worth, Texas, is open daily and houses over 200 collector cars alongside more than 3,000 vintage toys and artifacts, making it a destination for enthusiasts. Visitors can learn more about the collection at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
This debut matters because it highlights the importance of preserving automotive history through skilled restoration, ensuring that rare models like the TVR 2500M remain accessible for education and appreciation. It also underscores the cultural role of museums in safeguarding such artifacts, offering insights into engineering and design trends of the past. For car lovers and historians, the vehicle serves as a tangible link to an era of innovative British sports car manufacturing, now enhanced with modern upgrades for longevity. The restoration demonstrates how historical vehicles can be maintained as functional pieces of heritage rather than static displays, potentially inspiring similar preservation efforts across the automotive industry. This approach helps sustain interest in automotive history while supporting businesses involved in restoration, parts manufacturing, and museum operations in Texas.
