[EdT]

doesn't matter as long as it has a 500 on its boot

[PetrolTed]

As far as Griff/Chim reliability goes, they're on a par and I wouldn't say that any particular engine size is more or less reliable than any other. Good cars are reliable so just do your research. Buy a youngish car that has been used rather than a car with next to no mileage.

[dixonat]

I agree with both posts. I bought a Chim 500 that was 22 mts old with 6350 miles on the clock. Had a couple of problems that were easily fixed by the dealer and “touch wood” it runs like a dream. My only other suggestion is to get a car with full leather. Most people will say that you can’t tell the difference, but get in a car with a full leather interior and breath in through your nose and you’ll notice the difference all right.

[tricky2]

Cant agree more, i bought a 97P with 26K on the clock. Looked around and saw i could have got less miles for what i paid. After reading and knowing people who had lesser mileage cars im glad i opted for the higher mileage car. Im currently on 41K and its running very well indeed (touch wood). Only issues ive had are basic where and tear. I would also re-itterate (christ thats a big word for this time of the morning sorry!) the point of the full leather interior. Mine is starting to get on my nerves with that little earthy smell you get from the Wiltons every now and again...

[Bjwoods]

Chim/griff makes no odds. Same for engine size, just choose the performance that suits you. Generally over the years they had some revisions mechanically,changes,etc. But my 4.3 1992 griff, was not hugely different to own run, than my current griff 500 (1998) Generally,(taken into account the other factors as well) as new as you can afford, an older car will need a little more attention, i.e. an alternator packed up after 5 years, on my 4.3, things like this. Mileage and age will effect obviously be reflected in the price range you look at. But at any price range condition is all important. Drive/look at several, you will soon spot what a good should be like compared to others at at similar price/age/mileage. Much depends on regular servicing at good dealer/specialist, plus previous owners treatment. Some People just trash cars they own comparitive example, 2 identical company BMW 328's where I work. Same age (to the day) similar mileage, one looks trashed, 1 showroom condition after a couple of years with each driver. Some people just trash cars. Usual stuff, the less owners the better (if lots owners, why do people keep selling it, maybe a dog, can't aford to service it properly) complete history at one dealer(good sign, had a good relationship with that dealer). I know my current car would stand me at a premium with my dealer at trade in on a new TVR, offered at least 2K over other TVR dealers offers. etc, usual buying 2nd hand car advice It IS probably worth paying a premium at a good dealer, see Fernhurst's reasons why on their web site. That is unlesss you have similar understanding of these cars, which means you coud find a real bargain privately. B Edited by Bjwoods on Tuesday 31st July 14:02