Looking to buy my first Griffith
Discussion
charlievictor said:
I am now looking for a Griffith 500 have wanted one for 15 years, please tell me what I need to look out for, I have read about issues with regards to reliability, Chassis Outriggers, electrics, etc, now i need some advice from people who own these cars.
Reliability isn't an issue with a well maintained car as it's based on the RV8 so the first thing to look for is some comprehensive evidence of service history and other maintenance.Outriggers can be an issue and the corrosion is not easy to spot as it tends to occur on the top surface that can't be seen easily without a ramp and some inspection tools.
Electric again nothing major.
My advice is to join the TVRCC and get along to one of your local region's meetings and introduce yourself to the RO. I'm sure there will be one or two Griff owners there only too happy to talk to you and show you what to look for when buying one.
Good luck with your hunting and the best advice is don't necessarily buy the first one you see.
crashhelmet said:
Make sure it says Griffith on it and was made by TVR. Hope this helps.
Not really, but there's a couple of buyer's guides he might fine useful if he hasn't already found them:http://www.tvrgriffith.com/index.php?option=com_co...
http://www.shpub.co.uk/tvrbooks/GriffGuide.pdf
Other than what has been said by lazyitus and V8 GRF, there isn't much more to add. If you can find a perfect example that's great, but if not don't get put off by a slightly tatty exterior/interior if the mechanicals/chassis are in good order. Cosmetic stuff will often be cheaper to fix and you can take time to sort it out, whereas knackered mechanicals or a chassis refurbishment will be a big cost all at once. It's a good idea if you can to drive a few cars to get a feel for them as lots of people say that their quality and performance can vary a fair bit, especially with the age of some of these cars. Have a good look at the condition of the hood, plastic window and carpets, especially the carpets behind the seats where water can pool if they leak. Most seem to be ok, but they can leak if the hood hasn't been looked after and treated. Good luck, hope you find something soon.
Edited by GJR on Thursday 9th September 11:54
I was in a similar position a few months ago...having done years of research..reading magazines, forums and talking to owners, I still felt the need to enlist the services of an expert for reassurance.
I used Rob Ingleby at http://www.findasportscar.co.uk/ to source my car, his charges are quite reasonable and easily offset the travelling expenses I would have had to pay out to go and see 3 or 4 cars myself.
However I would still advise keeping something in reserve for any "little" jobs that might arise...in my case 4 brake discs, hand brake cable, rocker cover oil seals and a ball joint plus a 12k service, some wax-oil and a trip to the polishing company.
In all about £2k... admittedly I've had all the work done at Hexham (who are thorough but not noted for being cheap)and a professional polish (also not cheap).
I could have spent a 3rd of that if I'd bought parts and done the work myself but then I'd need to buy some new tools
either way it's not a cheap ... but the grin factor is worth it
I used Rob Ingleby at http://www.findasportscar.co.uk/ to source my car, his charges are quite reasonable and easily offset the travelling expenses I would have had to pay out to go and see 3 or 4 cars myself.
However I would still advise keeping something in reserve for any "little" jobs that might arise...in my case 4 brake discs, hand brake cable, rocker cover oil seals and a ball joint plus a 12k service, some wax-oil and a trip to the polishing company.
In all about £2k... admittedly I've had all the work done at Hexham (who are thorough but not noted for being cheap)and a professional polish (also not cheap).
I could have spent a 3rd of that if I'd bought parts and done the work myself but then I'd need to buy some new tools
either way it's not a cheap ... but the grin factor is worth it
Maybe you should have a look at this one.
Very nice car
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a... have to sell
Very nice car
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a... have to sell
DonkeyApple said:
Make sure your chest wig and gold medallion are in clear view when meeting any prospective vendors. This will ensure they appreciate you are a serious buyer and know what you are talking about.
... as opposed to needing to wear a stupid grin, carry a very large bag of money and a sign that says 'name your price' when buying the later models 
V8 GRF said:
DonkeyApple said:
Make sure your chest wig and gold medallion are in clear view when meeting any prospective vendors. This will ensure they appreciate you are a serious buyer and know what you are talking about.
... as opposed to needing to wear a stupid grin, carry a very large bag of money and a sign that says 'name your price' when buying the later models 
V8 GRF said:
Maybe you should have a look at this one.
Very nice car
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a... have to sell
Very nice car
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a... have to sell
gizzers car is a very nice example indeed. I am suprised that he is selling it.V8 GRF said:
Maybe you should have a look at this one.
Very nice car
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a... have to sell
Very nice car
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a... have to sell
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