The time has come

[citychap26]

Hi Guys,

I am seriously thinking of entering the fold. However I am worried about the problems associated with ownership! I am looking at a 450 1998. It's had an engine rebuild and possibly a clutch too.

Are there any decent warrenties that will cover this car?

Cheers

Sunil

[Wicker Man]

I think a 98 450 is probably the pick of the bunch. You might want to consider an independant inspection prior to purchase for peace of mind. Not sure what you mean about 'ownership problems' other than aching grin muscles. Do you have a garage to keep it in and shopping/bad weather car?

In my experience insurance backed warranties are not worth the paper they're written on. It's less hassle just arrange and pay for any repairs yourself. Or DIY.

With this particular car I'd want more details. What does engine rebuild mean? Has it had a new clutch or not? My 78K 96 400 has not needed either of these.

[tacoma]

Not sure that I follow the 'problems with ownership' bit either

I am well into my second year of ownership having bought my 98 400 privately for £12k. I have done a few things to the car, upgraded brakes, fitted the wiper mod, new pioneer stereo and 16" speakers; as you can see nothing that needed doing.

So far it has started everytime, i do about 8000 miles a year and smile so much my cheeks hurt. You only live once mate....

[225]

Have to agree, just because its a TVR doesn't mean it WILL have problems. Any car can develop faults, just so long as you thoroughly check lots of cars and do your homework you shouldn't end up with a lemon.

Beleive me if I had listened to my more sensible side I would be sitting here constantly thinking "what if" and in a few years time thinking "should have done it, should have done it". Act now before the police state blairites ban everything and we cant have any fun.

[TimmyArt]

Yep! DO IT, DO IT!!! Just got a 96, 400, 43k miles after a year or so out of Trev ownership - too early to say, but I didnt get a warranty... I bought private after looking at some in dealers (do your homework if your new to trevs). I compared them and this looked nicer, well looked after and well serviced - Was thinking exactly the same, thought I wanted a warranty but to be honest, if you buy from a dealer, you'll generally pay £3k+ more which you could spend on a private buy if it does go wrong. It will probably break a day after the warranty runs out anyway!! How much is a warranty?? I thought it was about £1k 12months from a dealer...I could be completely wrong

>> Edited by TimmyArt on Wednesday 22 March 18:40

[TimmyArt]

nice colour tacoma (mike)

[mbu10]

fully agree with getting one
got mine a month or so ago
and not given me any trouble really
apart from i perfectionist at times so replaceing seats and carpets now

[Red V8]

Buy one but keep a grand or so back as a warranty!

[Al 450]

Do it! ?I bought my first TVR, a '98 450 in January and I haven't stopped grinning since. It gets the most amazing reaction from people (I think it's the noise). No problems as of yet (touch wood) but I think preventative maintenance is the key. Mine came with a year's warranty from the dealer which is pretty comprehensive. I would recommend paying a little more for a good one from a dealer to avoid any worries. The dealer will always be there on the phone if you have any queries also.

Just drive carefully (it's a beast).