Discussion
Hi all,
I would really like to import a TVR to Canada (once 15yrs old, the car not me) and would like information on whether the chassis rot problem is the same on the newer SP6 models?
I would prefer a (Rover) V8 car like a Griff/Chim/Cerb but if the older cars needs a chassis resto/powder coating then I'm not sure I want to buy one that hasn't had it done already.
Also, I assume the V8 is pretty easy for a good mechanic in North America to work on, but what about the SP6 engines? Could any good mechanic work on them?
I would really like to import a TVR to Canada (once 15yrs old, the car not me) and would like information on whether the chassis rot problem is the same on the newer SP6 models?
I would prefer a (Rover) V8 car like a Griff/Chim/Cerb but if the older cars needs a chassis resto/powder coating then I'm not sure I want to buy one that hasn't had it done already.
Also, I assume the V8 is pretty easy for a good mechanic in North America to work on, but what about the SP6 engines? Could any good mechanic work on them?
The chassis rot applies to all models - there are views on different years but ultimately all cars require a good inspection!
If I was buying a TVR for abroad I would probably go rover v8 (or an LS swap!). Just makes it easier and cheaper. So a Griff or Chimp.
Generally the chassis rot is outriggers which can be fixed for £1500 ish afaik.
If you buy a 96 ish or earlier car then they tend to be better in the chassis dept
If you are considering a 15 year old S6 Tuscan then you have a couple more years to wait before they are that age.
If I was buying a TVR for abroad I would probably go rover v8 (or an LS swap!). Just makes it easier and cheaper. So a Griff or Chimp.
Generally the chassis rot is outriggers which can be fixed for £1500 ish afaik.
If you buy a 96 ish or earlier car then they tend to be better in the chassis dept
If you are considering a 15 year old S6 Tuscan then you have a couple more years to wait before they are that age.
I guess firstly you'll be waiting a couple of years before an SP6 hits 15 years old (first deliveries of Tuscan's in 2000), and then you'll need to choose carefully the car you import - lots in the Tuscan forum about what to look for in a Tuscan, but in your case a rebuilt engine will probebly be wise.
I have a 2000 Tuscan and the chassis has no problems. The chassis tubes behind the front wheels (which is where Chimaera/Grifffiths tend go) are more protected by the bodywork and in any event seem to be better quality.
having said that, the V8 will definitely be a better bet for you from a maintenance perspective (SP6 not really a problem, but V8 will be easier). My suggestion is don't wait, go for a Chimaera (or Griffith if you'e short sighted
). The chassis weak spots are well known and can be fixed without a body lift - I'd suggest getting a specialist here to inspect/repair before shipping. As with all of them buy on condition only.
In a few years you can then decide whether to sell and then get a Tuscan, or keep on with the V8.
I have a 2000 Tuscan and the chassis has no problems. The chassis tubes behind the front wheels (which is where Chimaera/Grifffiths tend go) are more protected by the bodywork and in any event seem to be better quality.
having said that, the V8 will definitely be a better bet for you from a maintenance perspective (SP6 not really a problem, but V8 will be easier). My suggestion is don't wait, go for a Chimaera (or Griffith if you'e short sighted
). The chassis weak spots are well known and can be fixed without a body lift - I'd suggest getting a specialist here to inspect/repair before shipping. As with all of them buy on condition only.In a few years you can then decide whether to sell and then get a Tuscan, or keep on with the V8.
The Cerb is harder to work on than the Griff and Chim as it isnt available in the Rover V8 engine, just TVRs own engines ie the AJP V8 (4.5 and 4.2) and the Speed 6 engine (from 1999 time).
If you are good with spanners and have the time (and inclanation) to put into it then no TVR should be too much of a challenge.
If you are good with spanners and have the time (and inclanation) to put into it then no TVR should be too much of a challenge.
Bob_Defly said:
Ah that makes sense. Hmmm... Griff or Chim then...?
I suspect there may be some debate.
Plenty of debate but they are basically the same. Same chassis and mechanicals, the style of body shape is all down to personal taste.I suspect there may be some debate.
If i was you i would go for the Chimaera, there is a lot more of them about, and they are therefore significantly cheaper.
The Cerb has the AJP V8 engine in 4.2 and 4.5 ltr and some of the later models the speed six engine. All these are TVR specific made engines and spares are usually only scourced from specialist TVR parts suppliers.
The chim and the griff are Rover V8 engines and spares are more easily available [and cheaper].
I think I will end up with a Chimera, but I really do love the design of the Griffith. I think it was my first poster car as a kid. It's a shame I can't get the Cerb with a Rover V8, as that car is my favourite, but I need something that will be easily fixable over here, I don't want to be waiting ages for spares.
Bob_Defly said:
I think I will end up with a Chimera, but I really do love the design of the Griffith. I think it was my first poster car as a kid. It's a shame I can't get the Cerb with a Rover V8, as that car is my favourite, but I need something that will be easily fixable over here, I don't want to be waiting ages for spares.
A cerb with an ls transplant....? Early cerb with broken engine is circa £6k then pay someone to fit an ls...?Hmmm... Interesting options.
I like the idea of the reliability of the LS engine, but I think it takes away some of the character, the Rover V8 has a very different noise. Also I'm not very good with spanners (yet) so would have to pay someone to do everything for me.
Apart from the cost of an engine, how much would it cost to drop a different engine in a Cerb? Do you have to fabricate loads of custom parts?
I like the idea of the reliability of the LS engine, but I think it takes away some of the character, the Rover V8 has a very different noise. Also I'm not very good with spanners (yet) so would have to pay someone to do everything for me.
Apart from the cost of an engine, how much would it cost to drop a different engine in a Cerb? Do you have to fabricate loads of custom parts?
Correct me if i am wrong but was the RV8 not destined for the Cerb in the first place? I Dont think it would be that hard to fit one in a Cerb and cost's well i think you could do it for less than £5k and that would be with some nice parts . There was one with a RV8 for sale on E-bay a couple of years ago
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