Buying a cerbera - how big the gamble?

[Chrissy G]

Just logged on to your website, and you guys have got me a bit scared! I am currently saving up 25k to buy a cerbera. I figured that while I'm not to tied down, why not get myself the car of my dreams? My father used to own a Chimarea 4l N reg, and I have to say the only problem we ever had was a leaking powersteering rack. However, our treatment by an un-named TVR dealership in the South (they've since lost their franchise) was appalling (servicing costs etc). I think that the sensible option would be buying from dealer. But how can I be sure I'm not buying a stinker? Has anyone used their cerbera as an everyday car? How long do the 4.2 engines last? Has anyone had a reliable dependable cerbera? I'd be grateful for any ones advice/opinion.

Thanks

[Ston]

Not realy answering your question, but I just picked up a second car for 2k, and its only done 42k on an R plate. This will put my mind at rest when I upgrade to the Cerb. At least then I know that if it is away for a long time or has to go into a garage then I can get to work okay.

If you shop around you can get a pretty good banger just for backup.

To kinda answer your question, I think the majority will say get one with a fair amount of miles on it. Say a 24k'er thats just been serviced. This will probably mean its been 'sorted' by the previouse owner, if its going to go wrong then it would have before 24k.

Well at least that is what I am looking at doing.

Cheers

[beano1197]

Again, not a direct answer, but I would understand anybody being reluctant to take the plunge on a TVR.

I bought my Griff after a fair amount of thought process, and wouldn't have changed my mind with hindsight.

Know what you mean about the steering rack problems!!

Equally, I know what you mean about the dealers. I would suggest that you consider someone like Adrian Blyth rather than a main dealer, to get good value for your new car. Accept that there may be a few things to sort out, but remember that there are people who run TVRs everyday and that there's always a listening shoulder here.

Turning my message full circle, I joined up to the e-group for Tuscans, just recently, wondering if that would be my next car - I wouldn't be inclined to go for one myself at the moment!!!! Still, TVRs!! Gotta love 'em!!!!!

[trefor]

I wouldn't say buying a Cerbera was a gamble at all. They are very highly tuned cars, capable of outrunning most Ferarris and virtually have race engines. For this the price you pay is higher running costs than the 'average' Rover V8 powered Chimaera.

Additionally, I don't think a main dealer is any better bet than an independent/buying privately. When you find the car you think you want get it checked by a knowledgeable 3rd party (not the AA/RAC) - whether it's for sale at a main dealer or not. Get a warranty too, but many parts may come under 'wear and tear' and not be paid for if the car is a few years old.

Enjoy!

[MikeyT]

No knowledge of Cerbera ownership at all but from memory the message seems to be to go for the latest model you can 98 carsa rea ot better it seems – full history is a MUST tho' – others will tell you various stories of buying through a dealer or private.

You pays your money and you takes your choice.

I felt happier buying my Chimaera (my first TVR) through a dealer in the end – just for the back-up and the knowledge that the car was totally sorted. Paid a good price too I think. There are bargains (!) to be had both trade and private if you look hard enough.

Mike

[jonlloyd]

Speak to Joolz on 01246 456660. He's just helped me buy a 4.5 and knows everything you need to know.