which griff

[clive f]

this is probably going to open a whole can of worms but here goes.... before next spring I`d like to step ut from an S2 to a griff, the griff was my first choice of tiv, but finances wouldn`t stretch 18 months ago, so hopefully in the next 4 - 5 months I`ll be ready to take the step.
But, firstly I like my noise, so should it be a pre-cat model, also with so many engine variations which size is best and why.
I am leaning towards the 4.3 but would like some expert opinions and experiences please.

[griffter]

To my mind the 4.3 gives you the best compromise between noise and power (which is why I've got one ).

You can (partially) decat a 500 to get more noise, but you're supposed to retain a cat for the MOT. You can tune a 4.0 to go like a 4.3.

Best bet is probably to buy the best car you can and 'tweak' it to suit you. Each is different, and each to their own.

[bjwoods]

I think all griff's are louder than an S.

Try a local TVR meet, or tvr gathering and listen for yourself.

If you are not fussed by ultimate performance, a 4.0l griff (ie pre cat), has all the styling/interior and the performance of a v8S, and seem to be a little cheaper than a similar 4.3, if you find a much loved one, you could get a bargain, as everyone seems to think i might as well get a 4.3 or 5.o for the extra performance, or noise... Alway felt though that my 5.0, was just as nice a noise as my 4.3.

B

[Phil Dicky]

See attached.. you two should have a chat

www.pistonheads.co.uk/gassing/topic.asp?t=221676&f=9&h=0

Phil

[Flyin Banana]

I had a griff 4.0ltr pre cat the sound was great!!!!! but i did afew trackdays and got use to the speed, so traded it in for a 500 griff, plenty fast enough now but without the sound so i've just had the rear silencers removed so the car now has straight through pipes, the sound is back and spits and pop like the old one used too

hope this helps make up your mind( or not as the case may be)

Cheers Rob

[Hoover.]

Clive...

I had the same predicament as you a year ago..... went pre-cat 4.3.... mine will hold it with most un modified 500s on the straight... not on the twists as their rack appears faster is faster.

Noise... I was happy n then wanted louder....... Cherry bombs in place of silence....oghhhh so many comments that it sounds great, noisy bastard desired affect.

[NicBowman]

I just bought a 4.3 BV, sold my S3. I like the wheels on the 4.3, perhaps not the best reason! The 4.3 is also rarer, and cheaper than a decent 500. The engine and gearbox are pure Rover, so I can fix anything myself. Also, I believe insurance is cheaper on the older cars. 4.3 BV is plently fast enough!

Nic

[clive f]

thanks guys, got a lot of sorting out to do, what with selling the S2 as well, so looking to move up around the spring.
best bet possibly to buy the griff / chimera bible and check it all out before I seriously start looking, my wife says I`m to impetuous, but really a tiv is more of a necessity, it`ll only growl an bark when I ask it to!!