1996 TVR Chimaera review from UK and Ireland
"Should have got one years ago"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
After sitting in London rush hour traffic for 2 hours, when arriving at work I switched the engine off while descending in the car lift. When I tried to start her up, nothing. The starter motor keeps getting to hot and I have to wait for the engine to cool down then she starts. So far that is the only problem I have had.
General comments?
I have always wanted a TVR, but was scared off because everyone I talked to would say "You don't want one of them because they always breakdown" but luckily for me I didn't listen and I'm the proud owner of a beautiful cherry apple red 4.5ltr.
I can't help, but change down the gears when slowing down rather then use the brakes because you get a symphony of V8 rumble from the exhausts.
The car is addicted to petrol and needs a fix every week, but I blame my driving style not the engine. I'm constantly thinking of reasons to go out in the car now and environmentalists will hate me for it, but I will drive almost anywhere now, even to the shops which is a five minute walk. Sorry.
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| Fast, but a pain in the A*se! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 450 Manual |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 36000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 37000 miles |
| Previous car | Jaguar XJS |
| Date of Entry | 20th July, 2005 |