2002 TVR Chimaera 4.0 V8 review from Malaysia
"Beauty and the beast"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Drivers side door leaked during heavy downpour.
Drivers side door could only be opened from the inside sometimes.
Clutch master pump had a leak (6000km)
Accelerator pedal cable snapped. (5000km)
Engine stall occasionally when dropping gear.
Small rubber/plastic details and finishes around windscreen and doors were a little unsightly.
General comments?
This car looks and sounds seriously sexy. You will never feel this special seated in another sports car again! Very often I get the best spot in a valet. The only downside is I get trailed very often usually closer than I would like. The car seems to get a lot of attention from chics too.
This car is quick if not seriously scary. The V8 music and muscle is a dream that reassures you (or anyone else) of the true beast that lies beneath the beauty. No sports car has ever had the nerve to fly past me. Always slowing down first as a sign of respect. Handling demands attention and skill.
It is obvious that this car was intended for a select type of drivers who know what they really want. As for me, I would never buy another make. I have to admit I have my eyes on the 5 litre AJP.
The drawbacks are really not worth worrying about when you have all of the above.
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| Fantastic car to drive (and to listen to) |
| 2000 - Chimaera 450 4.5 V8 petrol Proper sports car with oodles of soul |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | Manual |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 150 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 6000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Mercedes-Benz C-Class |
| Date of Entry | 26th May, 2003 |