Which TVR should i get?

[welsh_gaz]

I have 10 - 15k to spend, would like a relatively modern version and would only use it on the weekend.

[Zippee]

Late model Chim or Griff.

[alphonso]

TVR 911?

[Don]

Zippee said:

Late model Chim or Griff.

Listen to the man.

You should get a very nice Chimaera. Or a Griff 500. By now, if you buy one in good condition, it should be thoroughly sorted. A "modern classic".

[900T-R]

What he said. Get one up to scratch and you've got very little to worry about with as many grins per mile as you can handle as a recompense - the pain/pleasure ratio of the newer models can be a bit more variable...

[Chris71]

I found myself in this dilema recently (I actually stuck with the S but that's another story...) your options are pretty broad:

A decent Griffith
A mint Chimera (I'd go for a 450 personally...)
Decent choice of Cerberas in S6 or V8 guise
A Tuscan
Save a bit more for a Tamora
Absolutely mint V8S and a shed load of change (possible a bit old though)
One of the insane carbon-kevlar bodied silly-power wedges (a bit old/specialist perhaps relative the your comment?)

I came to the conclusion a Chimera would be my choice. Griffith chassis and performance with a little more practicality and I prefered the interior (obviously completely dependant on personal opinion).

If you're looking for a 21st century car, the top end of your budget is getting towards Tamora prices these days. It's also comfortably in range of a Tuscan. The latter are stunning looking cars, very contemporary and hugely fast, but personally I was put off by Speed 6 issues and horror stories of twitchy handling. It's probably the most bling for your money though.

[blackpoolrocket]

If you can wait 3 - 6 months you will be in an even better position and might even have change.

[RPE11Y]

In my experience, it is quite possible to pick up a decent Tuscan on your budget if you do your homework.
Although the RV8 models are great (I've had several!) and will PROBABLY be cheaper to maintain, believe me they can't touch the Tuscan for road presence and WOW factor with a sharper and more responsive driving feel.

All IMHO of course....

[Aowhs102]

You could get a very nice Tamora for the thick end of your budget... I happen to know of one that is coming up for sale... *cough* check my profile *cough*

[welsh_gaz]

This is all great info. I've just been looking on autotrader and seems like a T350 or a tamora might cost just a little more? From what you were saying about the pleasure/pain ratio from the newer models am I to infer that they are not as reliable?

[900T-R]

I still would budget for an engine rebuild somewhere down the line with any of the newer cars, and there's lots more of bespoke electrics and stuff that can make life more than a little expensive it it breaks. The RV8-engined cars are a lot simpler in those respects - you can get unlucky but with these there's a realistic ceiling of expenditure where everything essential is in 'better than new' shape.
I also feel that MkI Tuscans at least aren't as well built as Chims and Griffs were - ill-fitting rear windows, lots more wind noise etc.

[Chris71]

blackpoolrocket said:

If you can wait 3 - 6 months you will be in an even better position and might even have change.

Just because of the 'economic downturn' or is there a specific reason?

[welsh_gaz]

Are you saying that the newer speed six engine is more likely to need a rebuild than the RV8? And therefore the higher pain/pleasure related to lower reliability with the newer models?

[scotty_d]

welsh_gaz said:

Are you saying that the newer speed six engine is more likely to need a rebuild than the RV8? And therefore the higher pain/pleasure related to lower reliability with the newer models?

Yes Parts for the RV8 are very easy to source and simple engines and been proved to be solid for the last 30+ years

[pwd95]

Where abouts are you Gaz?

[welsh_gaz]

South west london.

[pwd95]

Ahh...bit far for me. Thought you might be local.
Best thing to do TBH is get along to your local TVRCC meet & have a natter & a good look.

ETA, £10-15 will get you a cracking Chim/Griff. The newer stuff is fab but expect supercar bills from time to time. The Chims & Griffs are just a collection of Rover, Ford & Vauxhall parts. Any decent garage will be able to do your routene servicing, brakes etc. Good luck.

Edited by pwd95 on Tuesday 17th March 22:46

[welsh_gaz]

Anyone know any decent garages where i could go test drive some in the west end. I've had a look on the web but most seem to be sports car garages and don't stock that many TVR's ?
Any real obvious TVR querks that I should be looking out for as an absolute no no when buying one ?

[900T-R]

Chassis condition (mainly outriggers) is critical.

[grumbledoak]

You won't get a good 'T-car' (Tuscan, Tamora, T350, Sagaris) in that price range, and a bad one costs even more in the long run. I'd look at Chimps and Griffs. They are basically the same car but the looks tend to polarize people, so after seeing them you'll know which one is for you.

You could pop along to a club meet and ask for a look/lift; you'll get one. And, if you meant 'west end' of London your nearest dealership is in Barnet (top of the Northern line and a long walk, though they might come get you at the station if you phone them in advance).