Description
1998 TVR Chimaera 450 with power steering.
Finished in what is often considered to be one of the most desirable colour combinations of Blue Starmist metallic over magnolia hide seats, blue wool carpets, dash top, gear lever gaiter, door release gaiter and oddment tray.
The original factory build sheet shows the car was ordered by a Mr Richard Howthorn on the 26th May 1998 and was duly registered10th September of that year.
Having had only had four owners from new, the last owner purchased the car from respected TVR specialist Matt Smith of Downham Market in December 2022 at which time the outriggers were replaced.
We were delighted when the car came to us in part exchange, as the owner is an existing customer (and a genuine TVR enthusiast) who has loved and cherished this car during his stewardship.
Below is a snapshot of the works carried out since 2019. This gives prospective owners an overview of the care and attention this car has received and confirms that many of the larger issues that commonly need attention as these cars get old have been addressed.
2019 @ 57199 miles – DG Sports Cars
• 12k (Major Service)
• Front Discs and Pads
• New Ball Joints
• New Differential Bushes
• New Exhaust, Rocker & Sump Gaskets
• New HT Leads
• Dashboard Venere Refurbishment
2022 @ 58, 500 miles – Matt Smith TVR
• 12k Service (Major)
• New e10 Fuel Hoses
• New Fuel Pump
• New Battery (relocated to boot)
• Uprated Discs & Pads + Front Callipers
• Brake Lines Upgraded
• Top Front Wishbones
• Top & Bottom Ball Joints
• New Blower Fan
2023 @ 62661 miles - TVRSW TVR specialist
• New Diff Oil
2023 @ 62999 miles - Franklins Sports and Classics
• New Rear Wheel Bearing
2023 - Owners Work (All parts invoices)
• 12k Service
• New Throttle Cable
• New Coil, Rotor Arm & Distributor Cap
• New Ignition Module
• New ACT Coolant Hoses & Clips
• New ACT Stainless Steel Coolant Pipe
• New Drive Belt
• Faired In Headlight Conversion
• Radiator Re-cored by Harts Radiators Ltd
2024 @ 64063 miles – Franklins Sports & Classics
• New Fast Road Camshaft
• New Timing Chain
• New Hydulic Lifters
• New Water Pump
• New Thermostat
• New Oil Pump
• New Engine Mounts
• New HT Leads
• New Engine Oil & Filter
• New Gearbox Oil
• New Fuel Filter
• New Oil Pressure Sender
2025 @ 66813 miles - Owners Work (All parts invoices)
• 6k Service
• Gearbox oil change
• New Stepper Motor
2026 @ 68561 miles – Matt Smith TVR
• New Protech Dampers
• New Upper Rear Wishbones & Bushes
• New Front Differential Bushes
• 4 Wheel Alignment & Set Up Dampers
2026 @ Franklins Sports & Classics
• New Front Ball Joints
2026 Owners Work (All parts invoices)
• Oil & Filter Change
• New Fuel Filter
• New Differential Oil
• Refurbish Alloy Wheels
2026 @ Hilton & Moss
• New Genuine TVR Windscreen due to stone damage.
The Chimaera 450 is often considered the sweet spot of the range with the legendary 4. 5 litre V8 producing 285bhp. This gives the 450 serious performance, with the 0-60 dash being completed in just 4. 7 seconds and a top speed of 160 mph.
This car drives superbly, sounds amazing and pulls like a train having been recently fitted (by us) with a fast road camshaft. The ride and handling are perfectly judged and improved over the standard car by the fitment of a set Protech adjustable coilovers.
The paintwork has a deep gloss finish whilst the bodywork is free from star cracks or osmosis. Likewise the interior remains in lovely condition with an immaculate dashboard (no cracks) and leather that is soft and undamaged. The wheels have been recently refurbished and remain unmarked and are wrapped in a set of excellent Uniroyal Rainsport 5 tyres.
Before next owner takes delivery, the car will go through our workshop and be fully and inspected and any faults found rectified. Once completed a fresh MOT will be placed on the car before delivery.
In summary, one of the best colour combinations, extensive recent works, fully serviced and prepared by us and new MOT at point of sale.
A great classic British sports car and fantastic value for money.
PX Considered
