The 1600 M was introduced in June 1972 and was meant to replace the Vixen Series IV. Power came from the 1,599 cc Ford Kent engine developing a mere 86 bhp. Logically the 1600 M showed modest performance figures: 0-62mph would take over ten seconds and the needle wouldn't pass 100mph.

Because of disappointing sales figures, the 1600 M was withdrawn in 1973. That year was also significant in another way. Until then TVRs had also been available as kit cars (i.e. built but with some items like wheels not actually fitted). With the UK's membership of the ECC in 1973 however the European VAT system was introduced, replacing the British Purchase Tax. This meant that even on unassembled kit cars VAT would be charged. The effect of was to instantly kill off demand for (TVR) kit cars and TVR would from now on only produce complete production models.

Pending the factory fire of January 1975, the 1600 M was revived with a view to relaunch sales. From May 1975 on the 1600 M remained in production for a further two years benefited from all visual changes incorporated in the other M-series. By the time the last 1600 M left the factory in 1977, the entire market profile had changed (mainly due to the arrival of the TVR Turbo) and it made no sense keeping the rather slow 1600 M on sale. During the 1600 M's start-stop-start career 148 cars were built.