Thinking of a Cerbera - general ownership advice please
Discussion
Hi folks,
I'm pondering a Cerbera (probably something like a 1999 4.2) but, having never owned a TVR before, I'm wanting to find out everything I can before possibly making a huge mistake.
What's the fuel consumption like? I'm guessing circa 15mpg?
Are there any issues with rust at all?
What are the service intervals and costs? Are there any good independent specialists near me (Bolton) and what should I be looking to pay for services? Any 'big' services that people generally sell up just before they fall due?
I've seen a fair few Cerberas with rebuilt engines - is a rebuild something that the TVR maintenance schedule requires?
Any general well-known problems or things to look out for?
I really, REALLY love the car, especially the exhaust noise
But I need to do my research before I even look at examples for sale - I'm pretty sure that after my last Skyline, my marriage wouldn't survive another moneypit 'problem car' so soon!
I currently drive a black '03 Vauxhall VX220 (2.2 NA) and so am already familiar with the need to drive VERY carefully in the wet!
Obviously, any comments, insight, experience or thoughts much appreciated!
Jim
I'm pondering a Cerbera (probably something like a 1999 4.2) but, having never owned a TVR before, I'm wanting to find out everything I can before possibly making a huge mistake.
What's the fuel consumption like? I'm guessing circa 15mpg?
Are there any issues with rust at all?
What are the service intervals and costs? Are there any good independent specialists near me (Bolton) and what should I be looking to pay for services? Any 'big' services that people generally sell up just before they fall due?
I've seen a fair few Cerberas with rebuilt engines - is a rebuild something that the TVR maintenance schedule requires?
Any general well-known problems or things to look out for?
I really, REALLY love the car, especially the exhaust noise
But I need to do my research before I even look at examples for sale - I'm pretty sure that after my last Skyline, my marriage wouldn't survive another moneypit 'problem car' so soon!I currently drive a black '03 Vauxhall VX220 (2.2 NA) and so am already familiar with the need to drive VERY carefully in the wet!
Obviously, any comments, insight, experience or thoughts much appreciated!
Jim
Hi Jim
Firstly, do a search on this topic and you'll find this is the place for good advice. Your questions answered
1. 15 mpg is a good start but I'm sure there will be days when your having fun it will be less and also days on long runs getting up to 25mpg.
2. Chassis is poorly painted and best checked over by a specialist before buying. Try Rob Ingleby. Waxoil is recommended to keep it in good order.
3. Service 6 and 12k, prices vary but I just had 12k at Racing green with MOT and some other bits for £1600. Lots of adverts for fixed priced service £700. Many owners advise £3000 per year running cost, not including insurance, fuel and tax. If you are good with spanners, the mechanics are relatively straight forward.
4. Not familiar with garages of Bolton
5. Rebuilt engines might well be the Speed six which is known to pop. My advise would be to stick to a V8 AJP and check service schedule, mileage and get advise on chosen car. V8s are generally pretty good as far as I understand.
Generally, you will not be disappointed but do not expect it to be without some usual TVR gripes. Read lots of threads on here but don't be put off unless you can't stretch to at least the £3000 per year. Happy cerb hunting!
Firstly, do a search on this topic and you'll find this is the place for good advice. Your questions answered
1. 15 mpg is a good start but I'm sure there will be days when your having fun it will be less and also days on long runs getting up to 25mpg.
2. Chassis is poorly painted and best checked over by a specialist before buying. Try Rob Ingleby. Waxoil is recommended to keep it in good order.
3. Service 6 and 12k, prices vary but I just had 12k at Racing green with MOT and some other bits for £1600. Lots of adverts for fixed priced service £700. Many owners advise £3000 per year running cost, not including insurance, fuel and tax. If you are good with spanners, the mechanics are relatively straight forward.
4. Not familiar with garages of Bolton
5. Rebuilt engines might well be the Speed six which is known to pop. My advise would be to stick to a V8 AJP and check service schedule, mileage and get advise on chosen car. V8s are generally pretty good as far as I understand.
Generally, you will not be disappointed but do not expect it to be without some usual TVR gripes. Read lots of threads on here but don't be put off unless you can't stretch to at least the £3000 per year. Happy cerb hunting!
Gassing Station | Cerbera | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff