Staying in the game with an S1
Discussion
Hi All,
I have recently had the misfortune to have to sell my Chimaera in order to fund the first few months of starting up my own business
So... I am contemplating spending 5-6k on an S1 in order to 'stay in the game', after all who would pick an old Clio over keeping in the TVR fold!?
My question is what can I expect? What are the common things that go wrong (besides water ingress) and what is the best part about owning an S(1)?
I'd also like to know what cosmetic mods (leven style) can be done on the S1?
AntonyB
I have recently had the misfortune to have to sell my Chimaera in order to fund the first few months of starting up my own business
So... I am contemplating spending 5-6k on an S1 in order to 'stay in the game', after all who would pick an old Clio over keeping in the TVR fold!?
My question is what can I expect? What are the common things that go wrong (besides water ingress) and what is the best part about owning an S(1)?
I'd also like to know what cosmetic mods (leven style) can be done on the S1?
AntonyB
Things to look out for on the S's are:
Chassis rust - the outriggers seem to be the worst for this.
The S1 and 2 only have little doors so can be difficult to get in and out of if you are much taller than average (unless the roof is off, then its dead easy)
Anothe problem they have is bottoming out - they do it a fair bit but you get used to it.
Other than these i cant think of any other problems.
I think the best things about owning an S is their retro looks, the seat of the pants feel and the NOISE!!!!.
As for cosmetic mods, they are quite limited when compared to the Griff and Chim, but things seem to be moving now and it shouldn`t be too long before accessories become more readily available. :fingerscrossed:
Good luck with the venture!!
Roy.
Chassis rust - the outriggers seem to be the worst for this.
The S1 and 2 only have little doors so can be difficult to get in and out of if you are much taller than average (unless the roof is off, then its dead easy)
Anothe problem they have is bottoming out - they do it a fair bit but you get used to it.
Other than these i cant think of any other problems.
I think the best things about owning an S is their retro looks, the seat of the pants feel and the NOISE!!!!.
As for cosmetic mods, they are quite limited when compared to the Griff and Chim, but things seem to be moving now and it shouldn`t be too long before accessories become more readily available. :fingerscrossed:
Good luck with the venture!!
Roy.
Chassis outriggers - particularly where the tyres throw stones at the corners behind the front wheels.
Also check the semi-trailing arms at the rear for rust. These are no longer available for the S1, but they can be replaced (both sides, of course) by the type fitted to later cars.
If the car is on it's original springs & dampers they will be pretty tired my now, making the poor ground clearance even worse.
>> Edited by Roy C on Wednesday 18th June 11:06
Also check the semi-trailing arms at the rear for rust. These are no longer available for the S1, but they can be replaced (both sides, of course) by the type fitted to later cars.
If the car is on it's original springs & dampers they will be pretty tired my now, making the poor ground clearance even worse.
>> Edited by Roy C on Wednesday 18th June 11:06
If you can, get hold of the 'S' Series bible by Steve Heath, there is a buying guide at the back. It will also be V Useful when you get one. There is a buying guide on this site if you have'nt seen it already.
Ditto above comments re chassis and bottoming out, seem to be common with most S models.
Good luck with your search.
Ditto above comments re chassis and bottoming out, seem to be common with most S models.
Good luck with your search.
For £5-6k you should be into the S2 early S3 range, there are some silly top end prices for some of the S3s which you will not need to pay. If you go for the S2/S3 then you get the 2.9 V6 rather than the 2.8.
Worst part of owning an S :-
Switching it off
Putting it away for the night
Walking round with a silly grin on your face because YOU know what you're driving home
The exhaust noise is WONDERFUL
Now what were the good bits?
Worst part of owning an S :-
Switching it off
Putting it away for the night
Walking round with a silly grin on your face because YOU know what you're driving home
The exhaust noise is WONDERFUL
Now what were the good bits?
Dont be put off getting the S1 with the 2.8, it has simpler fuel injection with no chip, and a lot less other electrical goodies to go wrong(electric windows,mirrors,boot)so a lot less to go wrong.
A lot of the S1s will have had their trailing arms replaced with the S3 ones which are standard replacement. Although it has slightly less power the S1 is lighter and less complicated.
All Ss are great just look at lots and take your choice.
A lot of the S1s will have had their trailing arms replaced with the S3 ones which are standard replacement. Although it has slightly less power the S1 is lighter and less complicated.
All Ss are great just look at lots and take your choice.
antonyb said:
David,
Looks like I just missed out on the thrs meet, is the next sunday one on the 29th? I'll try and come along if I can. The H+C is only a few miles from me.
Ant
No were off to Castle Combe via Andover on this Sunday - just to be different - see General TVR Thread.
Next H+C is 10th of July
27th is at Swordfish near Lee/Hillhead/Beach
tvrgaas said:
No were off to Castle Combe via Andover on this Sunday - just to be different - see General TVR Thread.
Next H+C is 10th of July
27th is at Swordfish near Lee/Hillhead/Beach
Is that 27th July?
Im also insterested in buying an S and need to meet some owners. I only live about 5 miles from the swordfish so I'd like to meet you there and find out the pros and cons of ownership.
spivvy said:
there is one con .?
putting her away in the garage at night and turning the engine off
Found an S3 to be very good for a day to day car.. Massive grins when I get to work, and the occaisional 60 mile detour on the way home after a traumatic day.. Fuel and running costs should be a little less than a Chim. You'll get a good S1 or perhaps 2 for that money, 3s tend to be a little more, but if you are happy with higher mileage, (not a problem if well maintained), or one needing a little work, you will be ok..
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