The 4.3

[bababoom]

So what can you tell me about the 4.3 chimera
Ive seen a couple of nice ones advertised but none have power steering.
Are they a more sort ofter model? They seem to be advertised for more than some face lifted mk2 cars.
But usually or at least from the photos look to be better looked after.

[ianwayne]

There aren't many of them. According to the DVLA (data not always accurate though. I'm intrigued that there are supposedly 2 with diesel engines!), there are less than 100 with engine sizes between 4000 and 4499cc. Allowing for some of these being incorrect, there are probably quite a few less that are actually 4.3.

[davo23]

The 4.3 was only available in the earlier cars for a short period hence no PAS in most if not all of them. There are standard 4.3s and those that are 'big valves' which are very rare indeed and as a result command higher prices. When I was buying my car last year there were a 4.3s for sale around 7k mark so not sure where they are sitting right now.

[JimTC]

Definitely the rarest of the Chimaeras but only in Mk1 version I believe.
A few have the T5 gearbox which is a plus.
Haven't seen one with power steering.
If you can find a good one give it serious consideration!

[pwd95]

Only 1-200 were made in 93/94. Owned mine twice. Fantastic motor the 4.3. Really strong & very eager to rev depending what cam is used. The Rover gearbox is very slick if in good condition too. I used to out pace track prepped Honda S2000's among other stuff at Castle Combe on the original suspenders & brakes.........




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yPWknLjZt4

[bababoom]

Why were they made for such a short time?
Was there problems with the engine from new?

[pwd95]

Nothing wrong with the engines, they were as strong as ever. I think it was cheaper to get the 4.6 RR lump & just change the cam. Same basic motor.

[CHEF_GOLF]

The 4.3 was a too expensive engine to build.
I have a 4.3 BV. She's quick and has a good strong engine. I have owned her since 1999

[Rib]

4.3 owner here too, when buying that was pretty much my inly stipulation along with not green lol after driving a few the 4.3 just felt so much better! Mine is avaliable to buy once I'm able to transfer my plate to my tamora. The prices do seem to have gone up more this year as the age of chims is becoming less of an issue compared to condition

[PapaButch]

another 4.3 here ! - Big Valve (Wasn't advertised untill engine strip down untill we found that out) - MY friend, these are the BEST of the sort. Free Reving, strong power (beats 5.0's easy) !

I'D highly recommend these engines, you may even find yours is a big valve and then when you sell it you get so much more as well!

[semaj]

Should not bite really but here goes. My wife has a 430 and I have a 500, the 430 has no chance in a top gear roll on from any speed. There is no substitute for cubes but the 430 is much smoother.

[PapaButch]

Hehe maybe not from a roll but when my 4.3 was in a bad state of tune i beat a 5.0 in a 3/4 mile drag

The 430 should be good for 240 bhp...big valve - well mine is now 270 standard

[CHEF_GOLF]

To be fair I have dragged a 5.0. Left it for dead.
But mine isn't really standard anymore. She's was rebuilt for the drag strip