911 (964) or chimera???
Discussion
this is the question and the anwer will unlikely be found on the TVR or Porsche forums
It s time for a new toy in Autumm and me and mrs cramorra are thinking what it could be...
The T 350 went (still missing it) and the question is what to replace it with (obvioulsy not like for like)
TVR wise I am having a chimera itch since a while (and prices are good, still) although a 911oid would also create huge interest - dynamic and affordability wise perhaps a 964 - targa mostly suited...
So what should it do
Fun and sporty around bends - not too much nannying, but some mod cons (i.e pas, working lights and brakes - so not a real classic car); outhright performance not so much an issue (there's the C63 and why would I have sold the T350)
some opening to elements necessary - but working and not to fiddly roof (so no cobra, lotus seven or caterham)
basic reliability and not tooo complicated servicing and not outragioulsy expensive to maintain (yes I had a tvr and know the niggles - this is not what I mean- but the chimera has a crate engine, self adjusting valves and so on...)
nice sound....
relatively depriciation proof
so all in all somebody who would have had both cars would be the ideal person to answer this or somebody who's telling me there is something completely different i'm missing
suggestions please
A - budget 12-18K
insurance and maintanance within reasons
garage available
not daily driver
but more driving then spannering
Concours looks not necessary but should not cuase
from 10 yards line
rather well mainatained original than modded to death
It s time for a new toy in Autumm and me and mrs cramorra are thinking what it could be...
The T 350 went (still missing it) and the question is what to replace it with (obvioulsy not like for like)
TVR wise I am having a chimera itch since a while (and prices are good, still) although a 911oid would also create huge interest - dynamic and affordability wise perhaps a 964 - targa mostly suited...
So what should it do
Fun and sporty around bends - not too much nannying, but some mod cons (i.e pas, working lights and brakes - so not a real classic car); outhright performance not so much an issue (there's the C63 and why would I have sold the T350)
some opening to elements necessary - but working and not to fiddly roof (so no cobra, lotus seven or caterham)
basic reliability and not tooo complicated servicing and not outragioulsy expensive to maintain (yes I had a tvr and know the niggles - this is not what I mean- but the chimera has a crate engine, self adjusting valves and so on...)
nice sound....
relatively depriciation proof
so all in all somebody who would have had both cars would be the ideal person to answer this or somebody who's telling me there is something completely different i'm missing
suggestions please
A - budget 12-18K
insurance and maintanance within reasons
garage available
not daily driver
but more driving then spannering
Concours looks not necessary but should not cuase
from 10 yards linerather well mainatained original than modded to death
I always think these threads are difficult as only the OP will understand what presses his buttons...
911's have such a strong following and are slightly more 'main stream' than the Chimaera. Chimaeras are awesome but I think are edging into 'classic' territory which isn't a bad thing if that's what your after. It may feel like a step backwards after the T350 though.
As some other options, for your budget have a look at:-
Lotus esprit
BMW Z4M (bloody good car but even more mainstream...)
Maserati spider
Happy hunting and let us know what you get
Paul
911's have such a strong following and are slightly more 'main stream' than the Chimaera. Chimaeras are awesome but I think are edging into 'classic' territory which isn't a bad thing if that's what your after. It may feel like a step backwards after the T350 though.
As some other options, for your budget have a look at:-
Lotus esprit
BMW Z4M (bloody good car but even more mainstream...)
Maserati spider
Happy hunting and let us know what you get
Paul
Well I have both at the moment albeit an older 911 cabriolet (1985) a Chimaera (1995) and an Esprit Turbo.
I will not worry about the latter for now.
Its no contest, the 911 is slower, cost a kings ransom compared to the Chim just to keep on the road, doesnt look as good, sound as good and isnt as comfortable. There is also hardly any storage space, The front bonnet area is too small and the seats in the back have trouble fitting a rucksack. I am 6'5 so have to have seat fully back.
Its also more of a cruiser than a sports car, its fairly quick but nowhere in the league of the Chim (in reality not on paper).
My 911 was valued at 20k which means its worth double the Chimaera but if I had to sell one, it would be the 911 without a second thought.
In the last 18 months the 911 (and mine was fully rebuilt a few years back) needed
New gear bushes
handbrake cable (engine out job)
Head gasket leak (another engine out job)
new heater motor (third one in last five years)
New washer motor (second one in five years)
there is also loads of little things, steering wheel stitching come loose, drivers seat frame snapped, seat motor seized moving seat into akward position, Gear lever epoxy come loose meaning gears were impossible to select, immobiliser is intermittant, rust coming through on seals (despite being replaced six years ago), passenger door lock seizing plus lots I have probably forgotten.
I havent included things like servicing but in the 911 I tend to do every 6 months rather than year, Chimaera is every year.
The Chim in the same time needed - a new radiator which has yet to be fitted as it fixed itself, rear light came loose. New screw fixed it.
(my chimaera is a reworked custom 4.7 RV8, the 911 is a rebuilt 3.2 to a very high standard)
However it does have its good points, its fairly discreet, good on fuel and looks great even after 27 years, cheap to insure (I was paying 164 quid a year all up for BOTH Lotus and 911, I am 33)and I havent lost money on it.
I went for the older 911 because I prefer the 915 gearbox (despite everyone saying the G50 is better I prefer the 915 gear changes) and I didnt want an electric roof. My friend has a slightly later 911 cab (1987) and his roof is always stuck shut or open, each time it cost a fair bit to sort. I think also due to the heavier electric roof and a/c his is a fair bit slower.
When I bought my 911 it was literally the best I could find, even with this it still needs ALOT of looking after. I find the Chimaera is more forgiving and happier being laid up for longer with no issues. I had not started the Chim since January, last week I connected the battery and she started first turn. believe it or not the Chim is also more watertight in heavy rain too.
I have owned a few Porsches now and I can honestly say....... I wish they were as reliable as a TVR. (I have had four TVR's spanning 11/12 years)
Of note, I think the 964 Targa looks odd too, For me its the worst of the three. Hardtop or cab is fine but the Targa just seems daft.
any excuse
I will not worry about the latter for now.
Its no contest, the 911 is slower, cost a kings ransom compared to the Chim just to keep on the road, doesnt look as good, sound as good and isnt as comfortable. There is also hardly any storage space, The front bonnet area is too small and the seats in the back have trouble fitting a rucksack. I am 6'5 so have to have seat fully back.
Its also more of a cruiser than a sports car, its fairly quick but nowhere in the league of the Chim (in reality not on paper).
My 911 was valued at 20k which means its worth double the Chimaera but if I had to sell one, it would be the 911 without a second thought.
In the last 18 months the 911 (and mine was fully rebuilt a few years back) needed
New gear bushes
handbrake cable (engine out job)
Head gasket leak (another engine out job)
new heater motor (third one in last five years)
New washer motor (second one in five years)
there is also loads of little things, steering wheel stitching come loose, drivers seat frame snapped, seat motor seized moving seat into akward position, Gear lever epoxy come loose meaning gears were impossible to select, immobiliser is intermittant, rust coming through on seals (despite being replaced six years ago), passenger door lock seizing plus lots I have probably forgotten.
I havent included things like servicing but in the 911 I tend to do every 6 months rather than year, Chimaera is every year.
The Chim in the same time needed - a new radiator which has yet to be fitted as it fixed itself, rear light came loose. New screw fixed it.
(my chimaera is a reworked custom 4.7 RV8, the 911 is a rebuilt 3.2 to a very high standard)
However it does have its good points, its fairly discreet, good on fuel and looks great even after 27 years, cheap to insure (I was paying 164 quid a year all up for BOTH Lotus and 911, I am 33)and I havent lost money on it.
I went for the older 911 because I prefer the 915 gearbox (despite everyone saying the G50 is better I prefer the 915 gear changes) and I didnt want an electric roof. My friend has a slightly later 911 cab (1987) and his roof is always stuck shut or open, each time it cost a fair bit to sort. I think also due to the heavier electric roof and a/c his is a fair bit slower.
When I bought my 911 it was literally the best I could find, even with this it still needs ALOT of looking after. I find the Chimaera is more forgiving and happier being laid up for longer with no issues. I had not started the Chim since January, last week I connected the battery and she started first turn. believe it or not the Chim is also more watertight in heavy rain too.
I have owned a few Porsches now and I can honestly say....... I wish they were as reliable as a TVR. (I have had four TVR's spanning 11/12 years)
Of note, I think the 964 Targa looks odd too, For me its the worst of the three. Hardtop or cab is fine but the Targa just seems daft.
any excuse
Edited by james280779 on Tuesday 9th July 01:25
Edited by james280779 on Tuesday 9th July 01:27
I've not owned a Chimera but I have a 964, Carrera 4 Coupe. I absolutely love it. I've had loads of cars and bikes and this is the only one I feel could be a keeper. It is something about the character of the car, the way it is feels like it is hewn from rock and so odd looking compared to others of the era. Sure the Chimera will objectively be better (it is 10 years younger too) but for me it would never compare to the 911 experience. I can't compare costs but do have to say it has been expensive running the 964, however for the top of your budget you should be able to get a sorted Targa that only needs regular servicing... in this case the cost won't be too high. Both great cars though, enjoy whichever you get.
Bobo W said:
An interesting dilemma and something I'm also pondering. However with a slightly lower budget range and with the adage "always buy the best you can" ringing in my ears, I'm at the lower end of 911's so am increasingly drawn to the Boxster S as the default Porsche convertible.
thought about a 944 cab? Very nice little carsYou may need to revise your pricing for a 964 as prices have risen at an alarming rate over the past two years. £20k+ will buy a good one. Whilst targa is the least popular it is coming up on the rails and predict you will see these fetch strong money in the next few years. Buy now and hold.
The Surveyor said:
I always think these threads are difficult as only the OP will understand what presses his buttons...
this is perhaps true but it is always good to have experience from others - test drives will not give the same...The Surveyor said:
911's have such a strong following and are slightly more 'main stream' than the Chimaera. Chimaeras are awesome but I think are edging into 'classic' territory which isn't a bad thing if that's what your after. It may feel like a step backwards after the T350 though.
I am not sure if a classic (ish) 911 is really mainstream but for me the looks are great, it ticks - at the right price- the depreciation button and they wii always be driver's cars - what I wonder if a 964 feels more "classic" than a chim, or the other way round - I do not search a like for like or better replacement for the t 350 - could have kept it, then.....The Surveyor said:
As some other options, for your budget have a look at:-
The Surveyor said:
Lotus esprit
- great from outside, a bit too 80s from inside UI guess and possibly built worse than the tvr....The Surveyor said:
BMW Z4M (bloody good car but even more mainstream...)
I agree but a possibility - would have to be a coupe for looks, though = perhaps with a rolling roof to make a modern mgb gt - getting my coat.....The Surveyor]Maserati spider [quote said:
gorgeous looks and sounds, gorgeous depreciation and ferrari spare bills??? - how do they drive????
thanks
Happy hunting and let us know what you get
Paul
thanks
Happy hunting and let us know what you get
Paul
james280779 said:
Well I have both at the moment albeit an older 911 cabriolet (1985) a Chimaera (1995) and an Esprit Turbo. [quote]
Nice garage.....
Nice garage.....
james280779 said:
Its no contest, the 911 is slower, cost a kings ransom compared to the Chim just to keep on the road, doesnt look as good, sound as good and isnt as comfortable. There is also hardly any storage space, The front bonnet area is too small and the seats in the back have trouble fitting a rucksack. I am 6'5 so have to have seat fully back.[quote]
this is interesting as i thought the Porsche might be more expensive to nuy but cheaper to keep, beauty is obvioulsy in the eye of the beholder for me the Porsche looks better from the outside but the Chimera wins inside (although Porsche haptics might be better...) - sound is V8 for me all the way- altough I have a sweet spot for the boxer sound
this is interesting as i thought the Porsche might be more expensive to nuy but cheaper to keep, beauty is obvioulsy in the eye of the beholder for me the Porsche looks better from the outside but the Chimera wins inside (although Porsche haptics might be better...) - sound is V8 for me all the way- altough I have a sweet spot for the boxer sound
james280779 said:
Its also more of a cruiser than a sports car, its fairly quick but nowhere in the league of the Chim (in reality not on paper).[quote] - is this the usability or is it the torque (as you say in real life?)
james280779 said:
My 911 was valued at 20k which means its worth double the Chimaera but if I had to sell one, it would be the 911 without a second thought.
In the last 18 months the 911 (and mine was fully rebuilt a few years back) needed
New gear bushes
handbrake cable (engine out job)[quote]
In the last 18 months the 911 (and mine was fully rebuilt a few years back) needed
New gear bushes
handbrake cable (engine out job)[quote]
james280779 said:
Head gasket leak (another engine out job)
new heater motor (third one in last five years)
New washer motor (second one in five years)
there is also loads of little things, steering wheel stitching come loose, drivers seat frame snapped, seat motor seized moving seat into akward position, Gear lever epoxy come loose meaning gears were impossible to select, immobiliser is intermittant, rust coming through on seals (despite being replaced six years ago), passenger door lock seizing plus lots I have probably forgotten.[quote]
is this a 964 problem as most classic Porsches I have seen as well as new ones make a solid impression???
new heater motor (third one in last five years)
New washer motor (second one in five years)
there is also loads of little things, steering wheel stitching come loose, drivers seat frame snapped, seat motor seized moving seat into akward position, Gear lever epoxy come loose meaning gears were impossible to select, immobiliser is intermittant, rust coming through on seals (despite being replaced six years ago), passenger door lock seizing plus lots I have probably forgotten.[quote]
is this a 964 problem as most classic Porsches I have seen as well as new ones make a solid impression???
james280779 said:
I havent included things like servicing but in the 911 I tend to do every 6 months rather than year, Chimaera is every year. [quote]
- do you go independent with the Porsche? - with the TIV it will be? Also is the milage you put on both compareable??? And if you add the halyear bills up how much more do they come to????
- do you go independent with the Porsche? - with the TIV it will be? Also is the milage you put on both compareable??? And if you add the halyear bills up how much more do they come to????
james280779 said:
The Chim in the same time needed - a new radiator which has yet to be fitted as it fixed itself, rear light came loose. New screw fixed it.
(my chimaera is a reworked custom 4.7 RV8, the 911 is a rebuilt 3.2 to a very high standard)
However it does have its good points, its fairly discreet, good on fuel and looks great even after 27 years, cheap to insure (I was paying 164 quid a year all up for BOTH Lotus and 911, I am 33)and I havent lost money on it.
I went for the older 911 because I prefer the 915 gearbox (despite everyone saying the G50 is better I prefer the 915 gear changes) and I didnt want an electric roof. My friend has a slightly later 911 cab (1987) and his roof is always stuck shut or open, each time it cost a fair bit to sort. I think also due to the heavier electric roof and a/c his is a fair bit slower.
When I bought my 911 it was literally the best I could find, even with this it still needs ALOT of looking after. I find the Chimaera is more forgiving and happier being laid up for longer with no issues. I had not started the Chim since January, last week I connected the battery and she started first turn. believe it or not the Chim is also more watertight in heavy rain too.
I have owned a few Porsches now and I can honestly say....... I wish they were as reliable as a TVR. (I have had four TVR's spanning 11/12 years)
Of note, I think the 964 Targa looks odd too, For me its the worst of the three. Hardtop or cab is fine but the Targa just seems daft. [quote]
Not so sure on this one- I prefer the targa as it is the porsche which i remember from my distand youth (beeing 10 years older than you....)- great and helpful post thank you
Great pics - could I ask you in the end what makes you take out either car of the garage, which kind of driving do you do with each, which do you drive more???
Thanks - messed the quotes up here totally.....
(my chimaera is a reworked custom 4.7 RV8, the 911 is a rebuilt 3.2 to a very high standard)
However it does have its good points, its fairly discreet, good on fuel and looks great even after 27 years, cheap to insure (I was paying 164 quid a year all up for BOTH Lotus and 911, I am 33)and I havent lost money on it.
I went for the older 911 because I prefer the 915 gearbox (despite everyone saying the G50 is better I prefer the 915 gear changes) and I didnt want an electric roof. My friend has a slightly later 911 cab (1987) and his roof is always stuck shut or open, each time it cost a fair bit to sort. I think also due to the heavier electric roof and a/c his is a fair bit slower.
When I bought my 911 it was literally the best I could find, even with this it still needs ALOT of looking after. I find the Chimaera is more forgiving and happier being laid up for longer with no issues. I had not started the Chim since January, last week I connected the battery and she started first turn. believe it or not the Chim is also more watertight in heavy rain too.
I have owned a few Porsches now and I can honestly say....... I wish they were as reliable as a TVR. (I have had four TVR's spanning 11/12 years)
Of note, I think the 964 Targa looks odd too, For me its the worst of the three. Hardtop or cab is fine but the Targa just seems daft. [quote]
Not so sure on this one- I prefer the targa as it is the porsche which i remember from my distand youth (beeing 10 years older than you....)- great and helpful post thank you
james280779 said:
any excuse
[quote]Edited by james280779 on Tuesday 9th July 01:25
Edited by james280779 on Tuesday 9th July 01:27
Great pics - could I ask you in the end what makes you take out either car of the garage, which kind of driving do you do with each, which do you drive more???
Thanks - messed the quotes up here totally.....
jackpe said:
I've not owned a Chimera but I have a 964, Carrera 4 Coupe. I absolutely love it. I've had loads of cars and bikes and this is the only one I feel could be a keeper. It is something about the character of the car, the way it is feels like it is hewn from rock and so odd looking compared to others of the era. Sure the Chimera will objectively be better (it is 10 years younger too) but for me it would never compare to the 911 experience. I can't compare costs but do have to say it has been expensive running the 964, however for the top of your budget you should be able to get a sorted Targa that only needs regular servicing... in this case the cost won't be too high. Both great cars though, enjoy whichever you get.
Thanks interesting as you seem to have less bad experience with a "sorted" 964ToneyCaroney said:
james280779 said:
thought about a 944 cab? Very nice little cars
Or a 968 cab with values starting to nudge north (if that is important to you). Very good cars. Zingari said:
You may need to revise your pricing for a 964 as prices have risen at an alarming rate over the past two years. £20k+ will buy a good one. Whilst targa is the least popular it is coming up on the rails and predict you will see these fetch strong money in the next few years. Buy now and hold.
thanks for this and also interesting what you think about prices - however http://www.findaporsche.com/showroom/1990-porsche-...
this sits nicely in the middle f my price range and is even from a reputable specialist..... so hopefully there is a chance
cramorra said:
Zingari said:
You may need to revise your pricing for a 964 as prices have risen at an alarming rate over the past two years. £20k+ will buy a good one. Whilst targa is the least popular it is coming up on the rails and predict you will see these fetch strong money in the next few years. Buy now and hold.
thanks for this and also interesting what you think about prices - however http://www.findaporsche.com/showroom/1990-porsche-...
this sits nicely in the middle f my price range and is even from a reputable specialist..... so hopefully there is a chance
cramorra said:
thanks for this and also interesting what you think about prices - however
http://www.findaporsche.com/showroom/1990-porsche-...
this sits nicely in the middle f my price range and is even from a reputable specialist..... so hopefully there is a chance
Looks like a nice car and those black centered Cup 1s suit it well, though I think they may be replicas. Also it is around the 100k mark and not had a top end done. Budget around 4-5K for this at some point in the future, they don't all need it but most do around this mileage.http://www.findaporsche.com/showroom/1990-porsche-...
this sits nicely in the middle f my price range and is even from a reputable specialist..... so hopefully there is a chance
wow so many questions.
is this the usability or is it the torque (as you say in real life?)
I find the usablilty on both pretty good, however the 911 you have to wring the neck to actually get any real performance, low down its a bit sluggish, need to really get it over 3500 revs to get it moving, however when you do it isnt bad. The TVR will just 'go' from any speed in almost any gear.
is this a 964 problem as most classic Porsches I have seen as well as new ones make a solid impression???
Mine is a couple of years older, I havent owned a 964 but from chatting to other people it seems that Porsches are not sewn from granite like most seem to think. I had the chairman of the porsche club out in my 911 a few months back and he commented on how exceptional quality mine is to all other aircooled he has owned or driven (he currently has five 911's, two aircooled including a 964 and an older 2.2 pre-impact). My good friend is also an ex Porsche mechanic (and massive fan) but even he admits they take alot of upkeep. Mine is due to go back next month for more costly work- circa 4k
- do you go independent with the Porsche? - with the TIV it will be? Also is the milage you put on both compareable??? And if you add the halyear bills up how much more do they come to????
both independent.
I am in a different situation, both cars get used for extended periods then left to sit for months. I spend eight months a year in Australia and four in the UK.
I brought my 911 out with me to Oz last year, prior to that it was my daily in the UK and now here, It probably gets driven 3/4 times a week. When I am back in the UK I use the Chimaera 4/5 times a week. I purchased this Chimaera early last year so has only had about 6 months constant use out of 18 months but I owned a standard 400 prior to the 911 so I am probably referring to that more in reality.
Mileage is slightly more in the TVR as I have owned them longer, probably about four years on the Chims now but another eight on a S1 Cosworth and Cerb Speed Six .
No idea on half year bills as I am lucky enough not to worry about that- I would estimate the Porsche is probably about 3-4k pounds a year so far over two years. Its more the little things that annoy me, literally as soon as one thing is fixed- another breaks. I had the washer motors fixed last week, driving home and the heater motor stopped working. Fitted a new stereo, speakers no good. List goes on and on. The TVR's has never cost me more than servicing so circa 100 quid a year plus a few sets of tyres and once a set of pads. I always have in my mind the cost of chassis work but even then completely refurbed, fully galvanised and all consumables replaced is only going to be 3500- thats a one off payment as it will last 30-40 years. I keep thinking is it time, and then I look and she is fine.
Great pics - could I ask you in the end what makes you take out either car of the garage, which kind of driving do you do with each, which do you drive more???
Thanks - messed the quotes up here totally.....
Well As stated they are in seperate countries. However I owned the Lotus and the 911 at the same time, I always took the Esprit out of choice, my brother would usually grab the Porsche keys (I let him use my cars whenever he wants).
I then shipped the Porsche and the Chimaera/ Esprit crossed over, I would always take the Chimaera, my brother feels the same as does the old man. We all agree the Chimaera is the best (which is super rare), I prefer the useability/ driveability of the Lotus to the 911 but I am alone on this- they both prefer the 911. I have now shipped the Lotus to Oz, when thats finished I will be moving the 911 on, I will probably be buying a 996/997 GT3 replica next (I need the back seats for my little one) and I have the true sports thing covered with the Lotus and TVR.
I drive them hard, mostly road but I like to use them. I am a trained emergency response driver as are my father and brother so we do use them to the limit after properly warming them up. To me cars are to be used- they are very well cared for and as soon as something needs doing- its done . But they are very well used.
is this the usability or is it the torque (as you say in real life?)
I find the usablilty on both pretty good, however the 911 you have to wring the neck to actually get any real performance, low down its a bit sluggish, need to really get it over 3500 revs to get it moving, however when you do it isnt bad. The TVR will just 'go' from any speed in almost any gear.
is this a 964 problem as most classic Porsches I have seen as well as new ones make a solid impression???
Mine is a couple of years older, I havent owned a 964 but from chatting to other people it seems that Porsches are not sewn from granite like most seem to think. I had the chairman of the porsche club out in my 911 a few months back and he commented on how exceptional quality mine is to all other aircooled he has owned or driven (he currently has five 911's, two aircooled including a 964 and an older 2.2 pre-impact). My good friend is also an ex Porsche mechanic (and massive fan) but even he admits they take alot of upkeep. Mine is due to go back next month for more costly work- circa 4k
- do you go independent with the Porsche? - with the TIV it will be? Also is the milage you put on both compareable??? And if you add the halyear bills up how much more do they come to????
both independent.
I am in a different situation, both cars get used for extended periods then left to sit for months. I spend eight months a year in Australia and four in the UK.
I brought my 911 out with me to Oz last year, prior to that it was my daily in the UK and now here, It probably gets driven 3/4 times a week. When I am back in the UK I use the Chimaera 4/5 times a week. I purchased this Chimaera early last year so has only had about 6 months constant use out of 18 months but I owned a standard 400 prior to the 911 so I am probably referring to that more in reality.
Mileage is slightly more in the TVR as I have owned them longer, probably about four years on the Chims now but another eight on a S1 Cosworth and Cerb Speed Six .
No idea on half year bills as I am lucky enough not to worry about that- I would estimate the Porsche is probably about 3-4k pounds a year so far over two years. Its more the little things that annoy me, literally as soon as one thing is fixed- another breaks. I had the washer motors fixed last week, driving home and the heater motor stopped working. Fitted a new stereo, speakers no good. List goes on and on. The TVR's has never cost me more than servicing so circa 100 quid a year plus a few sets of tyres and once a set of pads. I always have in my mind the cost of chassis work but even then completely refurbed, fully galvanised and all consumables replaced is only going to be 3500- thats a one off payment as it will last 30-40 years. I keep thinking is it time, and then I look and she is fine.
Great pics - could I ask you in the end what makes you take out either car of the garage, which kind of driving do you do with each, which do you drive more???
Thanks - messed the quotes up here totally.....
Well As stated they are in seperate countries. However I owned the Lotus and the 911 at the same time, I always took the Esprit out of choice, my brother would usually grab the Porsche keys (I let him use my cars whenever he wants).
I then shipped the Porsche and the Chimaera/ Esprit crossed over, I would always take the Chimaera, my brother feels the same as does the old man. We all agree the Chimaera is the best (which is super rare), I prefer the useability/ driveability of the Lotus to the 911 but I am alone on this- they both prefer the 911. I have now shipped the Lotus to Oz, when thats finished I will be moving the 911 on, I will probably be buying a 996/997 GT3 replica next (I need the back seats for my little one) and I have the true sports thing covered with the Lotus and TVR.
I drive them hard, mostly road but I like to use them. I am a trained emergency response driver as are my father and brother so we do use them to the limit after properly warming them up. To me cars are to be used- they are very well cared for and as soon as something needs doing- its done . But they are very well used.
Edited by james280779 on Tuesday 16th July 05:48
great from outside, a bit too 80s from inside UI guess and possibly built worse than the tvr....
not too bad if you do a little work, I literally finished working on it last weekend, The colour will dull down over time. I went for a slight gloss rather than matt due to it being an 80's car - need to get some new mats now despite these ones only being a few months old. I hated the interior, now its bearable BUT as soon as you drive the Esprit you really stop caring about it. I think most people dislike the interior but most dont notice when you put your foot down and the turbo starts whistling.
to
TVR is NOT badly built, most reliable cars I ever owned - trouble is people buy them and dont look after them then complain when they go wrong. Lotus is not as reliable but to be fair it is always the Toyota parts that seem to fail. The bespoke parts are still going strong.
Interior pics for compare
Porsche
TVR
not too bad if you do a little work, I literally finished working on it last weekend, The colour will dull down over time. I went for a slight gloss rather than matt due to it being an 80's car - need to get some new mats now despite these ones only being a few months old. I hated the interior, now its bearable BUT as soon as you drive the Esprit you really stop caring about it. I think most people dislike the interior but most dont notice when you put your foot down and the turbo starts whistling.
to
TVR is NOT badly built, most reliable cars I ever owned - trouble is people buy them and dont look after them then complain when they go wrong. Lotus is not as reliable but to be fair it is always the Toyota parts that seem to fail. The bespoke parts are still going strong.
Interior pics for compare
Porsche
TVR
Edited by james280779 on Tuesday 16th July 05:56
I see your on the Isle of Wight, I am back in the UK next week for six weeks. If you on the mainland at this point at all I am happy to take you out in the Chimaera for a test drive. I will be based in London area but dont mind a sortie down to the coast, maybe someone with a 964 fancies a drive too so you can have a compare, bear in mind neither will be near the performance of the cerb or T350
I'm comparing to a tvr chimaera and lotus esprit .
It's not slow by any means but it is considerably slower than both those. The esprit is just unexplainable, it shouldn't be able to do what it does.
The basic 400 chimaera is still a fair bit quicker than the 911.
Unfortunately the 996/997 are more gt than sports cars. I think the performance figures are not far off the older air cooled cars so that's about right. Easier to drive and use everyday though.
I forgot about the Porsche tax- get used to it. I also get a lot of people try and race me all time, never let me out etc. don't get that in the other cars
It's not slow by any means but it is considerably slower than both those. The esprit is just unexplainable, it shouldn't be able to do what it does.
The basic 400 chimaera is still a fair bit quicker than the 911.
Unfortunately the 996/997 are more gt than sports cars. I think the performance figures are not far off the older air cooled cars so that's about right. Easier to drive and use everyday though.
I forgot about the Porsche tax- get used to it. I also get a lot of people try and race me all time, never let me out etc. don't get that in the other cars
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