Chim, Griff or Tuscan?
Discussion
Hi all,
Since the sale of my RV8, I've not been the same bloke so I've decided that within the next 5 weeks I will be buying my first TVR.
But I'd like a bit of advice if possible!
The budget is anywhere from £9k-12k.
I originally had my mind set on a Chim 450 then my mind started wandering to a Chim 500, then to an early Tuscan then to a Griff 500 then back to a Chim. Now I'm plain confused as to what would be the best in terms of performance and reliability.
The 'problem' with the Chim is that in an ideal world I'd have a 1998/1999 onwards as I prefer the facelift models...but they come with a premium.
The 'problem' with the Griff is that the cosmetics (as far as I can tell) haven't changed which means there are a few 1995/1996's available for my budget but I'm unsure of they're likely condition/reliability?
The 'problem' with the Tuscans is that they are missing 2 cylinders...and if I buy one, I won't be able to afford the iminent re-build.
In fairness, I think the Tuscan is a no no...the issue with them only having 3/4 of an engine is quite a biggy - There's no sound better than that of a grumbling V8! I mean no offence to any Tuscan owners!
RE: Chim's, I know I don't want a 4.0 as I prefer the quicker option - is there a noticeable difference between the 450 and the 500? Are they worth the extra cash? Are there more problems with the 500's than the 400's?
Any ideas or advice/experience would be greatly appreciated as I really don't know enough about any of them!
Thanks in advance,
Rich
Since the sale of my RV8, I've not been the same bloke so I've decided that within the next 5 weeks I will be buying my first TVR.
But I'd like a bit of advice if possible!The budget is anywhere from £9k-12k.
I originally had my mind set on a Chim 450 then my mind started wandering to a Chim 500, then to an early Tuscan then to a Griff 500 then back to a Chim. Now I'm plain confused as to what would be the best in terms of performance and reliability.
The 'problem' with the Chim is that in an ideal world I'd have a 1998/1999 onwards as I prefer the facelift models...but they come with a premium.
The 'problem' with the Griff is that the cosmetics (as far as I can tell) haven't changed which means there are a few 1995/1996's available for my budget but I'm unsure of they're likely condition/reliability?
The 'problem' with the Tuscans is that they are missing 2 cylinders...and if I buy one, I won't be able to afford the iminent re-build.
In fairness, I think the Tuscan is a no no...the issue with them only having 3/4 of an engine is quite a biggy - There's no sound better than that of a grumbling V8! I mean no offence to any Tuscan owners!
RE: Chim's, I know I don't want a 4.0 as I prefer the quicker option - is there a noticeable difference between the 450 and the 500? Are they worth the extra cash? Are there more problems with the 500's than the 400's?
Any ideas or advice/experience would be greatly appreciated as I really don't know enough about any of them!
Thanks in advance,
Rich
FastRich said:
Hi all,
Since the sale of my RV8, I've not been the same bloke so I've decided that within the next 5 weeks I will be buying my first TVR. But I'd like a bit of advice if possible!
The budget is anywhere from £9k-12k.
I originally had my mind set on a Chim 450 then my mind started wandering to a Chim 500, then to an early Tuscan then to a Griff 500 then back to a Chim. Now I'm plain confused as to what would be the best in terms of performance and reliability.
The 'problem' with the Chim is that in an ideal world I'd have a 1998/1999 onwards as I prefer the facelift models...but they come with a premium.
The 'problem' with the Griff is that the cosmetics (as far as I can tell) haven't changed which means there are a few 1995/1996's available for my budget but I'm unsure of they're likely condition/reliability?
The 'problem' with the Tuscans is that they are missing 2 cylinders...and if I buy one, I won't be able to afford the iminent re-build.
In fairness, I think the Tuscan is a no no...the issue with them only having 3/4 of an engine is quite a biggy - There's no sound better than that of a grumbling V8! I mean no offence to any Tuscan owners!
RE: Chim's, I know I don't want a 4.0 as I prefer the quicker option - is there a noticeable difference between the 450 and the 500? Are they worth the extra cash? Are there more problems with the 500's than the 400's?
Any ideas or advice/experience would be greatly appreciated as I really don't know enough about any of them!
Thanks in advance,
Rich
for most people not a huge difference between a 4.5 and 5.0 (thats is chim 4.5, chim 5.0 or griffith 500)Since the sale of my RV8, I've not been the same bloke so I've decided that within the next 5 weeks I will be buying my first TVR.
But I'd like a bit of advice if possible!The budget is anywhere from £9k-12k.
I originally had my mind set on a Chim 450 then my mind started wandering to a Chim 500, then to an early Tuscan then to a Griff 500 then back to a Chim. Now I'm plain confused as to what would be the best in terms of performance and reliability.
The 'problem' with the Chim is that in an ideal world I'd have a 1998/1999 onwards as I prefer the facelift models...but they come with a premium.
The 'problem' with the Griff is that the cosmetics (as far as I can tell) haven't changed which means there are a few 1995/1996's available for my budget but I'm unsure of they're likely condition/reliability?
The 'problem' with the Tuscans is that they are missing 2 cylinders...and if I buy one, I won't be able to afford the iminent re-build.
In fairness, I think the Tuscan is a no no...the issue with them only having 3/4 of an engine is quite a biggy - There's no sound better than that of a grumbling V8! I mean no offence to any Tuscan owners!
RE: Chim's, I know I don't want a 4.0 as I prefer the quicker option - is there a noticeable difference between the 450 and the 500? Are they worth the extra cash? Are there more problems with the 500's than the 400's?
Any ideas or advice/experience would be greatly appreciated as I really don't know enough about any of them!
Thanks in advance,
Rich
You will get a newer chim 4.5/5.0 for the same money as a griff 500.
But check condition anyway
a well maintained chim 500 will be exactly the same as a well maintained griff 500.
ie mechanicals are identical.
Just check on condition, age and price (low or high) is no guarantee of condition.
B
Yes he has!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSlkKO-ERD0
And agreed, it's an outstanding noise! I personally prefer the 'blub blub blub' noise which comes from a V8!
Thanks for your comments BJ
And agreed, it's an outstanding noise! I personally prefer the 'blub blub blub' noise which comes from a V8!
Thanks for your comments BJ
do you play golf?
personally a nice griff 500 would do the trick - or as was said earlier you would get a newer chim for similar money. the restriction of the griff is the boot when compared to the chimaera, however it then comes down to personal preference as there isnt a whole lot of difference after that.
now - a nice cerb - different kettle of fish entirely and well worth looking at.
personally a nice griff 500 would do the trick - or as was said earlier you would get a newer chim for similar money. the restriction of the griff is the boot when compared to the chimaera, however it then comes down to personal preference as there isnt a whole lot of difference after that.
now - a nice cerb - different kettle of fish entirely and well worth looking at.
Edited by Obiwonkeyblokey on Tuesday 19th May 15:25
You can get a nicer condition chim than griff for same money. Don't think the premium for Griff is worth it at all unless you love the shape of the Griff and hate the Chim. I believe Tuscan Mk1 would be fantastic as long as engine either had a rebuild or doesn't need one (although good rebuild will improve even the best factory can offer of this model/vintage), and has suspension sorted a la Tuscan Mk2. You will get a better condition Chim than one of these for the same cash by a long way too.
Ha ha, a friend (Matt-Man) warned me about the perils of Chim ownership and golfing jokes!!! 
I do play (rarely and badly) but my housemate takes the clubs for me he drives an A4 estate so boot space will only be an issue for those magic Le Mans and Alps trips!
Thanks everyone for your comments so far - it would appear that with my limited budget a Chim will be the best value, and probably the 450 at that, though condition is what should be paid the most attention.
Is there anything in particular which should be checked other than overheating issues and the out riggers? Whats the best way of checking the out riggers? Complete novice...
I do play (rarely and badly) but my housemate takes the clubs for me he drives an A4 estate so boot space will only be an issue for those magic Le Mans and Alps trips!
Thanks everyone for your comments so far - it would appear that with my limited budget a Chim will be the best value, and probably the 450 at that, though condition is what should be paid the most attention.
Is there anything in particular which should be checked other than overheating issues and the out riggers? Whats the best way of checking the out riggers? Complete novice...
WorAl said:
awwww the poor man hasnt heard a screaming S6 look
Sorry not much help, i have an S6 but its a cerb...no problems with it at all so far.
Agreed - having owned both I reckon you really can't beat the sound of a sports exhaust equipped S6 screaming through to over 7000rpm.Sorry not much help, i have an S6 but its a cerb...no problems with it at all so far.
The RV8 is nice and loud and shouts power but the S6 on full chat shouts supercar.
Back to the original question 9-12k will easilt get you a facelift 450 (IMHO the pick of the engines), I sold my mint 97 400 for £8750 in September last year if it helps give you an idea. Don't be put off mileage, these cars are better the more they are used. Low mileage cars will likely suffer perished rubbers, joints, gaskets etc. Some of the dealers in the classifieds seem to be asking silly money (R/Green & Fernies - up to 18k for a 9 year old Chim???)
These look nice BTW -
http://pistonheads.com/sales/973947.htm
http://pistonheads.com/sales/1024913.htm
http://pistonheads.com/sales/316082.htm
I'd thought about that IM...but aren't they nearer the £6k mark?
Thanks Zippee mucho appreciated! - this is where I become a pain...the 1st of the cars (starmist blue) unfortunately isn't the facelift judging by the back end, the 2nd link doesn't work for some reason and the 3rd car I like but am put off by the ali dash - are they easy/cheap to replace with old man wood?
I know I'm too picky....
Thanks Zippee mucho appreciated! - this is where I become a pain...the 1st of the cars (starmist blue) unfortunately isn't the facelift judging by the back end, the 2nd link doesn't work for some reason and the 3rd car I like but am put off by the ali dash - are they easy/cheap to replace with old man wood?
I know I'm too picky....
I flirted with the idea of one of these a while back. FWIW my conclusions were that a Tuscan sounded like a scary proposition both dynamically and finanically; and as far as RV8 cars are concerned, the premium that Griffiths attract over Chimeras is hard to justify unless you really, really want a Griff, rather than a Griff-with-a-boot.
FastRich said:
I'd thought about that IM...but aren't they nearer the £6k mark?
Thanks Zippee mucho appreciated! - this is where I become a pain...the 1st of the cars (starmist blue) unfortunately isn't the facelift judging by the back end, the 2nd link doesn't work for some reason and the 3rd car I like but am put off by the ali dash - are they easy/cheap to replace with old man wood?
I know I'm too picky....
Facelift is a bit of a hit and miss subject. Revisions were made around 97/98 including different dash, door buttins, revised front end, bigger brakes etc. The back end was 98-99.Thanks Zippee mucho appreciated! - this is where I become a pain...the 1st of the cars (starmist blue) unfortunately isn't the facelift judging by the back end, the 2nd link doesn't work for some reason and the 3rd car I like but am put off by the ali dash - are they easy/cheap to replace with old man wood?
I know I'm too picky....
Chris71 said:
I flirted with the idea of one of these a while back. FWIW my conclusions were that a Tuscan sounded like a scary proposition both dynamically and finanically; and as far as RV8 cars are concerned, the premium that Griffiths attract over Chimeras is hard to justify unless you really, really want a Griff, rather than a Griff-with-a-boot.
cinderella or ugly sister.... 
both have the same equipment underneath their finery
Griff have a huge boot for a sports car(just as an experiment mind you - I easily fit 2 full sets and a golf trolley in mine. just the aperture is a bit tricky for the roof.
BJWoods said:
Chris71 said:
I flirted with the idea of one of these a while back. FWIW my conclusions were that a Tuscan sounded like a scary proposition both dynamically and finanically; and as far as RV8 cars are concerned, the premium that Griffiths attract over Chimeras is hard to justify unless you really, really want a Griff, rather than a Griff-with-a-boot.
cinderella or ugly sister.... Personally I was looking at it as sort of an investment and there's no doubt that the Griff was the iconic car from TVR's golden period in the '90s, so I desperately wanted to fall in love with that one. I was deeply shocked and a bit concerned when I saw the two side by side and found I actually prefered the look of the Chimera. I know, I know - how will I tell my parents?
Various revisions took place about 97-98.
Under mirror door buttons.
Larger boot overhang.
Body Colour & larger bump strip at rear.
Bigger bonnet vents and rear of bonnet is more upswept.
Front slat accross grille & indicators.
Mine was registered 1st Jan 98 and is to the above spec.
In early 1998 (I estimated about February), the four rear lights replaced the Fiesta units, the rear number plate became slanted and top lit. I think the boot hinges may have been revised at this time. The Spare wheel was replaced with a can of foam.
Not sure if it was at the same time but during 98/99 a digital milometer was introduced replacing the "mechanical rollover, get stuck at anything 9,999 one."
Faired in lights came in during 2000/2001 and I think a bit later 16 inch wheels all round.
Under mirror door buttons.
Larger boot overhang.
Body Colour & larger bump strip at rear.
Bigger bonnet vents and rear of bonnet is more upswept.
Front slat accross grille & indicators.
Mine was registered 1st Jan 98 and is to the above spec.
In early 1998 (I estimated about February), the four rear lights replaced the Fiesta units, the rear number plate became slanted and top lit. I think the boot hinges may have been revised at this time. The Spare wheel was replaced with a can of foam.
Not sure if it was at the same time but during 98/99 a digital milometer was introduced replacing the "mechanical rollover, get stuck at anything 9,999 one."
Faired in lights came in during 2000/2001 and I think a bit later 16 inch wheels all round.
anonymous said:
[redacted]
That's about right. My 450 was registered May '98 and has all the 'face lift' features including the slanting rear No. plate illuminated from above and 'afterburner' round rear lights. But the digital odometer came later as did the revised boot hinges enabling the boot to open wider. It also has the 'space saver' spare wheel.A 450 was my preferred choice and in just over 2 years and 10k miles, I've not had one moment's regret! Go, do it - you know you want to!!
I bought the best Chim I could find when I was looking, which turned out to be a 400. Of the cars I drove the 400s and 450s were very similar performance wise, the 500s are faster than the other two no question.
The only difference between any of the later cars is the engine, the running gear is the same on all models. Logic would suggest the more power you have the faster things wear out. My car has been reliable with only one glitch in 6 years, still made it home without being recovered.
The size of the boot sent me down the Chim route, the Griff boot with a one piece roof in it is a bit grim. As the typical Griff owner tends to pack little more than chest wigs and a selection of medallions space generally isn't an issue. They also seem to travel a lot alone for some reason so that must also help
The only difference between any of the later cars is the engine, the running gear is the same on all models. Logic would suggest the more power you have the faster things wear out. My car has been reliable with only one glitch in 6 years, still made it home without being recovered.
The size of the boot sent me down the Chim route, the Griff boot with a one piece roof in it is a bit grim. As the typical Griff owner tends to pack little more than chest wigs and a selection of medallions space generally isn't an issue. They also seem to travel a lot alone for some reason so that must also help
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