400 vs 450

[nickrudd]

Hi All,

I am considering entering the world of Chimaera ownership if I can find a good one for an agreeable price. My question is, is a 450 massively more powerful than a 400? I can't imagine a 400 being sluggish by any means. Would I really notice the difference. Figures in road reports show 0 to 60 and 0 to 100 times being the same !???

I can't quite see it myself...

Blistering acceleration is all I ask for!

Your views most welcome.

Nick.

[Ribol]

When I was looking to buy I wanted a 450 and ended up driving quite a few(dogs) in my quest for a decent car. I ended up with a good 400 which I have been delighted with and dare I say it has never missed a beat or cost much to run in the years I have owned it.
In short if the choice is between a 400 or 450 I would buy on condition/spec first and numbers second. If you are more interested in performance rather than costs then buy a 500.

[keirangrogan]

As a recent convert from an 'S' I can highly recomend a 500.


BTW the blue ones are faster

[bigdods]

I settled on a 450 after much research - the 500 is a bit lary and not as easy a drive as the 450 and from what I recall (this was a while back) the power deliver on the 400 isnt as smooth. I talked to a few indies/mechanics then looked around before getting Rob Ingleby to find me something suitable.

I have heard some people say the 400 is slow - cant see it myself its fast, 450 is faster and 500 fastest - you would surely notice a big difference between a 400 and a 500 less so between a 450 and 400 - but all this is from hearsay as I havent driven a 400. Go drive a few then you can decide.

And as already said condition is everything. I would take a good 400 over a ropey 450 or 500 any day.

[e2djh]

I agree with most of what has been said above.
I actually set off looking for a 400, but taking advice that condition is everything, settled for the car in best condition which hapopened to be a 450.

I am by no means an expert, but the 400 is definately not slow. You will get fantastic accelleration from either car, and i'm quite sure that a sorted 400 will be better than a rough 450 ( as stated above )

My advise, just try driving as many as you need before you find one that feels right, is in good condition (service history and check the chassis carefully)

If in doubt, either buy from a respected dealer who offers a warranty, or use one of the acclaimed experts to check it out for you, you find them if you search these forums

If you choose carefully, you will not regret it
Happy hunting, happy driving

PS,
if you are local, give me a shout and you can come have a ride, or alternatively contact your local TVR Regional Club and go meet the members and their cars

Edited by e2djh on Saturday 2nd September 13:15

[bigdods]

Oh yes forgot to add - if you are local (your profile doesnt say) then pop over for a cup of coffee and I will show you round my 450 point out the important bits !

[nickrudd]

Thanks Bigdods, that would be awesome! However, I'm in Plymouth, so that's probably the end of that!

I will look into local owners clubs though. Real life experience top tips are worth their weight in gold.