First time buyer: Main dealer v. Private buy

[dadrock]

Hi everyone,

Currently in Adelaide but returning to Newcastle in august and hoping to buy dream chimaera. Can't decide whether to go through a main dealer i.e. hexham H.C., through someone like rob ingleby or a private sale.

Prices seem to vary considerably. I would expect to pay more through a main dealer but what are the advantages? - warranty? -how long, what does it cover?
I figure it might be best to go through a main dealer as it's my first TVR.

I'm aiming for a 4.0l chimaera, about 18-19,000 budget. Would be using it everyday as only car and would have to be kept on the road outside my flat. The only thing i'm sure of is i'm gonna get one! Literally can't wait!

cheers, dadrock.

[bennno]

with no trade in and nearing the end of the summer any dealer will want to offer you a deal.

dealer or tvr specialist with a warranty, a svaing of 2-3k could easily be eaten up by the first service on a privately bought car! if you want to go the private route then perhaps find one which has just been serviced and inspected?

aggerautosport or rob ingleby have both had good reports.

bennno

[beano500]

Of course there is another alternative to consider. Buy privately, get it checked over by an independent specialist and tuck a few £££s away for any rainy days?

[Big Al.]

Hi dadrock,
Sound decision.
If your like me a know naff all about mechanics, then stay with the trade, if on the other hand your OK with spanners and things, and have the confidence to do routine maintenance then go for the private buy. Remember that the guy who helps you initially choose and purchase the car might not be on the end of a phone to help you through a problem a few months down the line.

Like when it won’t start in the local B&Q car park, as happened to me last week.

I feel secure in knowing that I have a team of guy’s on the end of a phone that know my car personally and will talk me through any problems that may arise.

Whichever way you decide make sure you get a good warranty. IMHO.

Take a look over on the Chim FAQ section you may pick up some pointers.
www.pistonheads.com/gassing/forum.asp?faq=true&f=8

Good luck and happy hunting… you won’t regret it. :takesdeepbreathsmilie:


>> Edited by Big Al. (moderator) on Saturday 12th April 10:30

[dadrock]

Cheers guys. Rapid response, I'm impressed!

I've gotta admit, i'm no great talent with spanners etc. I'm keen to learn though, figured the 'bible' would be a good place to start, although i am realistic and think buying through a dealer is the best move now. The guys up at hexham were always friendly when i used to wander up for a look. Walked in one day, heard them start one up and i knew then i couldn't not get one!

dadrock

[taylormj4]

Buy privately - I had around the same to spend on a Chimaera last year. Buying privately will mean that you could buy a low mileage, facelifted version, whereas from a dealer I think you may be forced to buy either a higher mileage or pre-facelift model.
I got a TVR dealer to check over the car, for 50GBP, only a basics visual check on the suspension / engine etc. I do have a fair bit of mechanical experience but you can't get under TVRs without a ramp or something!
Good luck, start looking early, it'll take you longer to find a good one than you first expect!
Matt

[MikeyT]

taylormj4 said: Buying privately will mean that you could buy a low mileage, facelifted version, whereas from a dealer I think you may be forced to buy either a higher mileage or pre-facelift model.
Matt

For those to whom these things matter - the pre-facelift ones are the more beautiful as you don't get the 'fat lip boot' or the HIDEOUS angled no plate.

IMO of course.

Squirrelz has the perfect one IMO - old back and new front with the mirror entry buttons too. Perfect, but not so easy to find.