The Supercharged Wedges

One model which often slips through the reviewers net is the supercharged SX350. These cars were prepared by the Barrow-in-Furness TVR dealer David Haughin. At the time of writing my information is that approximately 10 cars were modified by Haughin during the 1980`s by the addition of a Sprintex S102 Supercharger, the majority being 350i`s, although some may have had 390 shells, but also a couple of 400`s got the supercharged treatment at that time.The idea was believed to have come from ex drag racer Dennis Priddle. Along with uprated blown power the cars receiveduprated suspension and brakes,Interiors also varied with a couple of cars having SEAC interiors

SX350 by Haughins pictured at BBWF 2005

A non-factory model, this was a dealer special. At the former TVR dealership "Northern TVR Centre" in Barrow-in-Furness, Dave Haughins worked with Yeovil based DPR Forced Induction Systems and took nine 350i wedges and two 400SE's and added Sprintex supercharger units. Various power and torque outputs have been quoted over the years, with the best I've found being 260 bhp at 5100rpm and 294 lbs/ft from only 3000rpm, giving excellant mid range acceleration. It was claimed that the supercharged unit was a more driveable engine than the similarly powered 390.

The cost of the conversion was £3967.50 for the engine work and £1200 for the suspension package. An uprated clutch was also an option. This would have been on top of the price of the basic 350 which was £18,015 at the time.