buying from non-tvr dealer..??

[abz]

I am looking to buy my first ever tvr and have seen a few for sale from non-tvr dealers (i.e. I expect they were traded in for a new car). Just wondered what people thought about buying such a car from a non-specialised dealer- does it make any difference, are there added risks, etc...

[toobin]

I'd rather buy from an enthusiast and get a full inspection. At least you get some more of the history. Better price and less "tall tales"! But thats just one mans opinion

[R TOY]

I bought my Tuscan from a trade warehouse type place. New nothing about the car nor pretended to.Car was priced 4-5 k less than equivelent at TVR dealer which allowed me to buy a newer,lower mileage car which i thought was more important. Cheapest way is to buy private tho, then you get history(but not all the history!). And lets face it its the same car you would buy from a TVR dealer if it ends up traded in and they have little idea how a car has been treated! (but may give warranty)
Worth having someone like RobIngelby(see thread on gen tvr stuff) check your car tho pre purchase,
Ya pays ya money,Ya takes ya choice.

[basil brush]

Check out the thread on the new TVR warranty for used cars. May be a way of buying privately and still getting some cover should anything crop up.

[paulduley]

Can I ask specifically where you got it so that I can check it out.

[R TOY]

paulduley said:

Can I ask specifically where you got it so that I can check it out.

You talkin to me?? If so the place was John Holland sales at Sheffield. I dont think they usualy get TVR's in but had taken this one from a Porche garage.
Nice enough to deal with, apparently they normally sell to the trade but advertise odd cars (mine was on T,Marques website) to public. they have a website which i'll post if i can find card. My car still had balance of 2yr engine warranty to run which gave me confidence in buying none specialist tho has now expired.(warranty, not car!)
good luck in your hunt, winters the best time to get a bargain

[b2tus]

Bought my first TVR (a Chimaera) from a VW dealer. Original owner had to get a 4 seater pronto and wanted a specific VW model/colour so he part exed.
Checked everything with the owner and had Rob Ingleby do the necessary.
Result - a suberb car about £4K under TVR dealer price - 2 years ownership and NO BILLS. Totally reliable including runs to South of France.
Check history/owner/Rob Ingleby and sleep happily at night.