1997 TVR Chimaera 4.0 V8

Highlights

  • Canems Injection ECU fitted in 2018, improving economy, performance and reliability
  • Owned since 2002, used regularly and always kept in a dry garage
  • 4-litre V8 coupled to a 5-speed manual gearbox

The Appeal

Designed to be the ultimate long distance grand tourer of the TVR range, the Chimaera combined the sporting credentials of the Griffith with a full size boot and the comfort of an enlarged cabin and softer suspension. The result was a TVR that could realistically be used on a regular basis, and that is exactly what this Chimaera’s owner did after acquiring the car in 2002. 
Since then, the Chimaera has been used more sparingly, continuing to receive regular maintenance, replacing parts and carrying out sensible upgrades where necessary. It is a highly usable and smart example presented in very good condition both mechanically and cosmetically.

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The History and Paperwork

  • 6 owners from new
  • Acquired by the vendor in 2002 from an independent specialist
  • Used initially as a daily, then for European touring
  • Regularly maintained and stored in a garage
  • According to the vendor, a full record of the specialist service history is available
  • MOT valid until January 2023
  • Original handbook
  • Collection of invoices old MOT certificates
  • Canems ECU fitted in 2018

The Interior

  • Retrimmed 
  • Magnolia hide with Royal Blue inner bolsters and dashboard top
  • Wilton replacement carpets finished in blue with magnolia piping
  • Royal Blue overmats emblazoned with the TVR emblem
  • Door cards replaced
  • New walnut dashboard and Pioneer stereo
  • Light patination to seats, with some fine cracking and creasing
  • Capacious carpeted boot with new gas strut fitted
  • Alarm system fitted

The Exterior 

  • Paris Blue
  • Paintwork in very good overall condition, displaying only minor stone chips on the nose
  • Straight original bodywork
  • Convertible soft top roof operates well
  • The notoriously troublesome TVR chassis outriggers have been replaced
  • Appears in very good order underneath
  • Alloys in good condition with minimal kerb damage
  • Leven windscreen wiper and washer kit fitted

The Mechanics 

  • 4-litre Rover V8
  • Canems ECU fitted in 2018: affording increased performance, better economy, smoother running and greater reliability
  • Drives smoothly in all gears with excellent throttle response
  • All new wiring for the engine management system, remedying TVR common issues of variable running, hot starting and stalling
  • New adjustable shock absorbers
  • New brake discs
  • Refurbished steering rack
  • Alternator replaced
  • New clutch and clutch master cylinder

Summary

Presented in lovely condition and performing exceedingly well, this is a fine example of the coveted TVR Chimaera.
Featuring some choice upgrades and regular maintenance, this Chimaera would be a great example to cover some miles in. All its next owner has to do is plan their first grand tour…

Notice to bidders


This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion.
Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only
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Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy.
Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion.
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Vehicle specification
  • Year 1997
  • Make TVR
  • Model Chimaera 4.0 V8
  • Colour Paris Blue
  • Odometer 88,450 Miles
  • Engine size 3998
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Private
  • Town Overton
  • Location Hampshire
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
33 bids
  • pa•••• £10,000 10/10/22
  • ad•••• £9,900 10/10/22
  • Pe•••• £9,800 10/10/22
  • ad•••• £9,700 10/10/22
  • Pe•••• £9,600 10/10/22
  • ad•••• £9,500 10/10/22
  • Pe•••• £9,300 10/10/22
  • ad•••• £9,200 10/10/22
  • Pe•••• £9,100 10/10/22
  • ad•••• £9,000 10/10/22
Message C&C Auction Team

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