Buying a Chimaera

[htuomola]

I am writing this from a country of 2 TVRs: Finland. I am planning to expand the local stock by 50% as I am seriously considering buying a Chimaera.

Although I am an avid fan of British motoring, the fact is that I have never even seen a Chimaera except in pictures. Two questions:

1. As I am coming over to the UK to see them (and hopefully buy), what WILL I pay attention to (i.e. what are the most surprising features of the real car as opposed to mere photos)?

2. On the other hand, what SHOULD I pay attention to (i.e. the most frequent problem areas)?

I know these questions have been asked before but I would appreciate some input: Besides condition, which factors affect the price most? Year? Engine size? Mileage? Certain options? Do any colors command premium prices?

I will be in the UK from this Sunday (9/19) until about Wednesday to see the cars. If you have an early (for Finnish tax reasons) Chimaera to sell, I would be happy to hear about you and consider your car. I can be contacted at [e-mail]

[raceboy]

htuomola said:

1. As I am coming over to the UK to see them (and hopefully buy), what WILL I pay attention to (i.e. what are the most surprising features of the real car as opposed to mere photos)?

The lack of any visable means to get in, or out, depending on the year theres either just 2 push buttons behind the door, or under the wing mirrors, and inside there is no door release in the normal position on the door, it's in the centre of the transmission tunnel
If you've only seen pictures the biggest thing that will win you over though is the noise

htuomola said:

2. On the other hand, what SHOULD I pay attention to (i.e. the most frequent problem areas)?

The condition of the chassis is probably the most important thing, regardless of age or mileage

htuomola said:

Besides condition, which factors affect the price most? Year? Engine size? Mileage? Certain options? Do any colors command premium prices?

A combination of all the above really, year and mileage seem to play the biggest part but some high mileage cars can be in better condition than some low mileage cars so go on overall condition more than anything else

htuomola said:

I will be in the UK from this Sunday (9/19) until about Wednesday to see the cars. If you have an early (for Finnish tax reasons) Chimaera to sell, I would be happy to hear about you and consider your car. I can be contacted at [e-mail]

Have you contacted any of the recommended used specialists?
James Agger Autosport amoung others comes highly recommended and might make your transaction as smooth as possible