TVR confirms Ford V8 power, eyes up 2018 Le Mans

TVR has completed successful engine tests of the Coswoth-tuned Ford ‘Coyote’ V8 that will power its all-new range of sports cars.

The all-alloy V8 engine, which powers everything in the US from the Ford F 100 pick-up to the recently launched Mustang, is rumoured to produce anything between 350kW to 370kW thanks to the work done by the former F1 engine builder.

When signed off for production, the new engine will come in five states of tune -- a standard tune, big power output, track day-spec and two versions for racing that include a full-blown GT3-spec motor for a Le Mans racer.

To help adapt the new engine to fit the Gordon Murray-designed car, Cosworth has converted the V8 to have dry-sump lubrication that helps packaging and reduces the risk of oil starvation at high g forces.

To boost performance over the standard car there’s a new engine map, modified variable valve timing and a new exhaust manifold made for a side-exit exhaust system. To increase engine responses the new engine will also come with a lighter flywheel.

The Ford engine was chosen over other V8s because of its ‘bombproof’ reliability.

TVR has also reportedly also reinstated its commitment that its first big coupe in nine years will weigh-in at a lithe 1100kg.

Factor in the big power and the result should offer monstrous performance and provide the ideal basis for both a single-make race car to replace the old Tuscan and a competitive Le Mans challenger.

The British sportscar-maker hopes to sell 250 cars in 2017 and is already sold out until 2018.

TVR has yet to announce where it will set up its new manufacturing base but has confirmed that every new Cosworth-enhanced Ford V8 will be hand-built by Cosworth itself in the same workshop it assembles IndyCar race engines.

TVR says it will reveal its 2018 racer at the 2017 Le Mans 24 Hour race. Its all-new road car will go on sale shortly after.