Last Chimaeras

[halcyongriff500]

The last Chimaeras had faired-in headlights and Cerbera type seats, possibly 16" wheels all round[?] and appear to have been produced circa 2001-2. I recall a late friend saying that he wanted a 500 but at the time of his order in 2002 the factory would only supply the 450. Anyone know how many of these late Chimaeras were produced? Are they worth any more than any other Chimaera in similar condition? The last 100 Griffiths were designated Special Edition and command a substantial premium but I am not aware that these last Chimaeras had any special designation. Anyone out there shed any light?

[halcyongriff500]

Many thanks Ian. I have just sold my faithful Griff and was considering a 34000 mile 2001 Chim 450 For Sale at £17990 - specialists apart that might be expensive for a 450 Chim unless these late cars command a premium?

[halcyongriff500]

You are quite right guys the Chim concerned is the one For Sale with Ashtons in Devon, over 5 hours each way from me excluding comfort breaks so viewing has got to be serious. Since selling my Griff a few weeks ago, I've come to the realisation that: 1. I sold the Griff too cheaply 2. all TVRs are increasing in price especially Griffs and better Chimaeras particularly 500s - not sure about 450s 3. most of the better sounding cars seem to be with dealers who charge accordingly 4. there seem to be quite a few good value Chim 400s advertised privately 5. Later T series cars may be better value but I worry that the SP6 engine may be an expensive experience. Looking at some advertised prices being without a TVR feels like falling off the property ladder, wait too long and you may struggle to get back om - unless you are trying to sell one of course! A new MX5 anyone?

[halcyongriff500]

Thanks Mart 63, your comments are very interesting. Ashtons sent some chassis pics, original but looks fine although the rubber blanking plug is missing from the bell housing. They also sent the service history, last service October 2014 @ TVRS [Somerset], prior to this Peninsula in 2010 due to the very low mileage covered. BTW when the PAS rack on my Griff became very loose, it was the beginning of a saga that eventually cost over £1400 thanks to botched repairs, a dodgy recon rack before getting it sorted properly by Dan Taylor, then it had to have a 4 wheel alignment to set the geometry before it felt right......
Ashtons didn't mention the rack, dash or bootlid issues during my enquires and they are aware of the distance involved for me to view.
Its beginning not to sound like the pristine car it should be to justify the asking price! A private sale is probably a better bet, its not daily wheels so I can afford to wait for the right car.