S to Chim, or not to Chim?
Discussion
Hi, I’m a visitor from the S2 forum hoping to get some guidance on the delights of Chim’ ownership!
I’ve had my beloved 1990 S2 for four years, and apart from the usual Tiv maintenance (complete engine re-build, brake failure and annual pre-MOT welding) it’s absolutely brilliant. However, its all getting rather ‘tired’ and the list of things to replace/fix when I get round to it is growing rapidly; the last MOT strongly suggested new O/S rear suspension arm before next year, and ‘light’ chassis corrosion.
So, spend lots of time / cash on a full body off or get something else? Griffs are an option, but the carrot of px for a Chim has just been suggested to me.
I’ve honestly never considered changing the S2 before, so wonder if anybody else has made the transition, and how it has worked out for them; delighted or wistfully looking back to the pleasures of S motoring? Also, is there a particular age group of Chimaera to avoid (I currently have the option of ’94 or ’98 (£3k more, but 12,000 less).
Any thoughts on this major decision greatly appreciated!
I’ve had my beloved 1990 S2 for four years, and apart from the usual Tiv maintenance (complete engine re-build, brake failure and annual pre-MOT welding) it’s absolutely brilliant. However, its all getting rather ‘tired’ and the list of things to replace/fix when I get round to it is growing rapidly; the last MOT strongly suggested new O/S rear suspension arm before next year, and ‘light’ chassis corrosion.So, spend lots of time / cash on a full body off or get something else? Griffs are an option, but the carrot of px for a Chim has just been suggested to me.
I’ve honestly never considered changing the S2 before, so wonder if anybody else has made the transition, and how it has worked out for them; delighted or wistfully looking back to the pleasures of S motoring? Also, is there a particular age group of Chimaera to avoid (I currently have the option of ’94 or ’98 (£3k more, but 12,000 less).Any thoughts on this major decision greatly appreciated!
I can't offer you a comparison between the 'S' and the Chimaera persoanlly, but I suppose one of the major physical differences between your S2 and a Chimaera is the V8 engine. The fact is that, depending on the actual car, you may need to spend as much on either Chimaera to bring it up to scratch as you would your 'S'.
The electrical systems on the '98 car are likely to be more robust than on the '94 or the '90 car; beyond that, the general condition of the car in terms of bodywork, paintowrk, trim and especially the chassis and mechanical parts, are more important than, say, the mileage.
The electrical systems on the '98 car are likely to be more robust than on the '94 or the '90 car; beyond that, the general condition of the car in terms of bodywork, paintowrk, trim and especially the chassis and mechanical parts, are more important than, say, the mileage.
Hi Yorky,
I have just moved from an S3 to a Chim' 400. My advise to you is: do it......!! The Chim is a totally different beast and feels rather more modern to drive than the S. Don't get me wrong, its still no walk in the park and your eyes will be out on stalks when you start pushing the Chim hard but what a smile it puts on your face..!! I managed to pick up my '94 Chim with FSH for around £6K, YOu just need to be in the right place at the right time......
Cheers,
IanM
I have just moved from an S3 to a Chim' 400. My advise to you is: do it......!! The Chim is a totally different beast and feels rather more modern to drive than the S. Don't get me wrong, its still no walk in the park and your eyes will be out on stalks when you start pushing the Chim hard but what a smile it puts on your face..!! I managed to pick up my '94 Chim with FSH for around £6K, YOu just need to be in the right place at the right time......
Cheers,
IanM
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