how does a v8s compare to a chimaera

[ssc1]

after lots of serching and driving around im thinking of getting a v8s , i wanted a good wedge 400/450, but the wife dont like them at all even though i think they look great, anyway having owned a chimaera 4.3 before how does a v8s measure up against it as there seems to be a few for around 10k , is the running gear the same as the chimp or not and does the big opening front end give any probs.

[GreenV8S]

They have a lot in common mechanically but very different to drive - which is probably the important thing?

[griffter]

How so?

I'm undergoing the Griff/Chim/V8S purchase debate at the moment.
Persuade me I want a V8S! (Cheaper to buy = more ££ for improvements, cheaper insurance I believe?, no cats, 'classic' looks...I'm halfway there already)

AFAIK the rear suspension is the principle mechanical difference between the V8S and the early Griff/Chim - how does this manifest itself on the road?

How else does the drive differ?

[OXBOW]

Had a couple of both and very, very, very, differant!
Chimaera easy, even in 5 lt form, and obviously more modern looks and great cabin. Probably quicker in real terms- 4.5 the best. V8s truly raucous! Loads more fun and smiles. Defo not an every day car, even thou I tried very hard to let it be. Luv em both!
P.S. Rosso pearl Tuscan best car ever!!!!!

>> Edited by OXBOW on Thursday 12th June 13:47

[GreenV8S]

The S series trailing arm rear suspension gives better handling under braking (due to the anti-lift effect) but is vulnerable to wheel tramp if you like to spin the wheels from a standing start. The twin wishbone setup on te Griffith/Chimaera etcwill tramp too, but not nearly as severely as the trailing arm setup. Having said that, there are things you can do to reduce the problem on the S series, and I very rarely encounter this problem these days. The S series has been described as being more 'chuckable' than the later models, I don't know why (it is only a little bit lighter) but may be something to do with the weight of the controls and the suspension setup.

[griffter]

So at the risk of hijacking this post (but not too much) can I assume:

The V8S is more fun on the bends? Or at least no less fun and possibly a bit more 'back to basics'?

All but as quick in a straight line?

A little less refined?

And more entertaining on track?

'Cos that's what I want! Thanks for views - v. useful as I'm not into blagging test drives/timewasting/driving without insurance...

[GreenV8S]

V8S is slightly quicker in a straight line than the 4.0 Griffith and Chimaera, it is a fraction lighter and has lower gearing. Obviously the bigger engined models will show it a clean pair of heels.

[duncscz]

how does a v8s measure up against it as there seems to be a few for around 10k

I am also considering a V8S, but those around 10K have been advertised for a while - appreciate the V8S is more exclusive (and elusive) but do they really justify the +3K compared to the V6 (and there has been a rush of S recently advertised)?

[GreenV8S]

The V6 S is a great car, but when you've tried the V8 - nothing else will do!

[Ren Dao]

GreenV8S said: The V6 S is a great car, but when you've tried the V8 - nothing else will do!

Will second that !!. Tried them both but ..........