Which Griff ?!

[markez79]

Just wondering about peoples opinions on the different griffs available. For a first TVR should i go for the 4.3 or the 500. I appreciate one is a damn site quicker but i mean the overall package: pace, price of maintenance and handerling.

Thanks and have a great Christmas.

Mark.

[shpub]

The 500 is streets ahead of a 4.3 in terms of performance, handling, suspension, braking and build quality. The later the car the better as well. You can't easily make a 4.3 into a 500 - read my article in TVRCC's Sprint this month.

If you have not driven a really powerful rear wheel car before, there is some logic in going for a smaller engined version first. The 500 is a real handfull for most newbies as it requires a lot of respect to prevent you becoming an accident technique. What ever you get, if this is a first time get some driving tuition - it will pay off.

Steve
www.tvrbooks.co.uk

[Marshy]

In some ways, I think it's an attitude thing. If you get a 500 first off, and go into it being scared to death of pranging it, you might be OK. A year and a half and 15000 miles later, I've managed to stay unscathed in a Chimaera 500.

[Gasblaster]

I agree with Marshy. I went straight to a Griff 500 this time last year. The months of wet and icy roads taught me self control so that when summer came I was ready to blast it good style. For the first few weeks I thought 'please don't prang it, please don't prang it' every time I drove. So far, so good!

[lawman]

Go for the newest you can afford, so probably a 500. Let's face it, if you drive it with the wrong attitude they are both plenty powerful for you to stuff yourself backwards into the nearest hedge.

[coachmans]

Go for a 500 - I did after 4 years with a 200bhp 3000M and I'm still grinning!! Contact Rob Ingleby on findasportscar.co.uk - he gives a superb service and will find the car that you want at a price you won't believe. Well worth a phone call. If you aren't a member yet join the TVR club as you'll find most members willing to talk tvr's and offer practical (slightly biased....) advice.

[angusfaldo]

Steve's point about engine size is a good one, IMHO. The only problem is that after you get used to the amazing performance of the 4.3 you'll be gagging for the rabid performance of the 500. I've heard a number of 4ltr Chimaera owners say this, but equally there are probably as many who are happy with the smaller engine.

I wanted the full Monty and went straight for the 5ltr. I haven't had a single moment of regret. I suspect I may have had some regret though had I not taken some lessons in coping with 340 rampant horses screaming out through those rear wheels.

Whatever you do make sure you make your decision after driving a few.

Good luck!

AF