Griff or Chimp, 4.5 or 5 litre?
Discussion
I expect this is an often asked question - in which case perhaps someone would direct me to a previous thread...
I'm considering changing my BMW M Roadster for a TVR. I orginally favoured the BM as I did about 20k miles a year and would only have the one car. I was put off the TVR by tales of unreliability and a £500 service every 5k miles...
Anyway - change of job and availability of an old hatchback means that the sports car in the family will now be garaged during the week and only used at weekends or if I'm working outside London. The hatchback will do the 2 mile trip to the station each day.
That got me thinking that I could now seriously consider a TVR, and I'm taking the first steps into doing this - having joined the TVRCC.
Question is - Griff or Chimaera, and if the latter, 4.5 or 500? I favour the practicality of the Chimp - particularly the boot size, but have always hankered after the Griff.
Is there any difference between the Griff and Chimp 5 litre?
Also, I know there is a book available with buying tips. Are there any other things I can do to get up to speed on TVR's before taking the plunge and starting the search in earnest.
Plus anyone interested in buying a well cared for M Roadster (1998, 38k miles)?!
I'm considering changing my BMW M Roadster for a TVR. I orginally favoured the BM as I did about 20k miles a year and would only have the one car. I was put off the TVR by tales of unreliability and a £500 service every 5k miles...
Anyway - change of job and availability of an old hatchback means that the sports car in the family will now be garaged during the week and only used at weekends or if I'm working outside London. The hatchback will do the 2 mile trip to the station each day.
That got me thinking that I could now seriously consider a TVR, and I'm taking the first steps into doing this - having joined the TVRCC.
Question is - Griff or Chimaera, and if the latter, 4.5 or 500? I favour the practicality of the Chimp - particularly the boot size, but have always hankered after the Griff.
Is there any difference between the Griff and Chimp 5 litre?
Also, I know there is a book available with buying tips. Are there any other things I can do to get up to speed on TVR's before taking the plunge and starting the search in earnest.
Plus anyone interested in buying a well cared for M Roadster (1998, 38k miles)?!
Griff or Chimp to me is a matter of taste.
I love the Chimaera, don't find the Griff as appealing.(Just My Opinion) The Chimaera has also got a softer ride and is 'easier to drive'. It is also quite a practical car. The Griff is probably a more fun w/e only car that takes more agressive driving to control it (again, just my opinion)
As for the engine, I would start off with the smaller one and work your way up the power range. This of course depends on your driving skill,experience etc. and I know nothing of that.
You have joined the car club, so go to a few meets and speak to the owners of each.. And drive lots of both of them to help you decide.
I love the Chimaera, don't find the Griff as appealing.(Just My Opinion) The Chimaera has also got a softer ride and is 'easier to drive'. It is also quite a practical car. The Griff is probably a more fun w/e only car that takes more agressive driving to control it (again, just my opinion)
As for the engine, I would start off with the smaller one and work your way up the power range. This of course depends on your driving skill,experience etc. and I know nothing of that.
You have joined the car club, so go to a few meets and speak to the owners of each.. And drive lots of both of them to help you decide.
I'd advise going for a 500, as otherwise you'll eventually want more power and will regret not going for the larger engine in the first place.
Other than that, Griff or Chim is entirely down to personal taste. Chim is arguably more practical with its larger boot, although a Griff may hold its value better due to rarity. Drive both and then make your mind up.
Pete
Other than that, Griff or Chim is entirely down to personal taste. Chim is arguably more practical with its larger boot, although a Griff may hold its value better due to rarity. Drive both and then make your mind up.
Pete
I have previously owned an M Roadster and now have a Chimp, so you won't be disappointed whichever you go for. I went for a Chimp because I preferred the looks and a 4.5 as it felt fast enough for me just now! Drive both and you will feel the difference.
As for the future values, I don't think you can lose as I have found dealers are always on the look out for Chimps as they are the most popular TVR. Therefore if you want a more powerful engine or a different car (Cerbie for example) you won't have a problem trading up.
As for the future values, I don't think you can lose as I have found dealers are always on the look out for Chimps as they are the most popular TVR. Therefore if you want a more powerful engine or a different car (Cerbie for example) you won't have a problem trading up.
Is there any difference between the two 5 litre cars? I spoke to Henley Heritage and the chap said that the only difference is the body style - the chassis, suspension and engine etc are all identical. Can anyone confirm this?
I'm inclined to go for the 5 litre - I know that if I go for a smaller engined one I will always be plotting a change up - each change of car seems to cost me several grand....
But as everyone says - I need to drive them.
On that note, the first 'salesman' I spoke to at Henley Heritage was really quite rude. I popped in and made an initial enquiry, wanted a stock list and a bit of information - I was also unsure if I wanted a new or used car. I said I wanted to arrange a test drive - not that day. He told me that he would be happy to arrange a test drive when I had placed an order! I said that this was ridiculous and unacceptable - I will never buy a car without a test drive. He replied that they got lots of people who were interested in driving the cars but rather fewer who were interested in actually buying them - and anyway, I'm not being rude sir, but are you accustomed to the power? I had already explained that I owned a 321bhp M roadster and had test driven a Boxter S the previous day. I left vowing that I would never buy from Henley Heritage or have a car serviced there...
However, I did go back in and this time spoke to a different gentleman who was very happy to spend time talking to me and my girlfriend (who astonished me by asking lots of questions - horses are her thing, not cars) and has offered to arrange a test drive.
Anyone else have experience of this dealer? Also can anyone tell me anything about Thames Valley Racetech - they aren't far from me and may be somewhere I can use for servicing?
Edited by AndrewHolden on Thursday 10th January 09:57
I'm inclined to go for the 5 litre - I know that if I go for a smaller engined one I will always be plotting a change up - each change of car seems to cost me several grand....
But as everyone says - I need to drive them.
On that note, the first 'salesman' I spoke to at Henley Heritage was really quite rude. I popped in and made an initial enquiry, wanted a stock list and a bit of information - I was also unsure if I wanted a new or used car. I said I wanted to arrange a test drive - not that day. He told me that he would be happy to arrange a test drive when I had placed an order! I said that this was ridiculous and unacceptable - I will never buy a car without a test drive. He replied that they got lots of people who were interested in driving the cars but rather fewer who were interested in actually buying them - and anyway, I'm not being rude sir, but are you accustomed to the power? I had already explained that I owned a 321bhp M roadster and had test driven a Boxter S the previous day. I left vowing that I would never buy from Henley Heritage or have a car serviced there...
However, I did go back in and this time spoke to a different gentleman who was very happy to spend time talking to me and my girlfriend (who astonished me by asking lots of questions - horses are her thing, not cars) and has offered to arrange a test drive.
Anyone else have experience of this dealer? Also can anyone tell me anything about Thames Valley Racetech - they aren't far from me and may be somewhere I can use for servicing?
Edited by AndrewHolden on Thursday 10th January 09:57
Andrew,
I bought my Chim 450 from Henley. Personally, I found them OK, they were a wee bit alof with me but when they realised I was genuinely (sp) interested they were very helpful (they lost a potential £5K since I was in the market for a Cerby, they 'helped' me go for a Chim based on my usage - weekends / low mileage and driving experience), I'm grateful for that, although I would still love one.
Adrian is the owner, he was the most helpful but equally Louise and Peter are good too.
Please bear in mind that I've not yet had any servicing done yet (due in March), so my opinion may change.
One thing I have noticed is their market is the 'city hi-flyer, too much money' type. (I only went there because they are closest and also a college purchased his TVR from them, hence good word of mouth).
This 'market' is particularly evident since the tosser in a blue Tuscan I followed for about 5 miles in south London before xmas was a HH customer. I was along side him for most of the journey, frantically waving etc.., looked at me as I was shit on his shoe.
Steve
I bought my Chim 450 from Henley. Personally, I found them OK, they were a wee bit alof with me but when they realised I was genuinely (sp) interested they were very helpful (they lost a potential £5K since I was in the market for a Cerby, they 'helped' me go for a Chim based on my usage - weekends / low mileage and driving experience), I'm grateful for that, although I would still love one.
Adrian is the owner, he was the most helpful but equally Louise and Peter are good too.
Please bear in mind that I've not yet had any servicing done yet (due in March), so my opinion may change.
One thing I have noticed is their market is the 'city hi-flyer, too much money' type. (I only went there because they are closest and also a college purchased his TVR from them, hence good word of mouth).
This 'market' is particularly evident since the tosser in a blue Tuscan I followed for about 5 miles in south London before xmas was a HH customer. I was along side him for most of the journey, frantically waving etc.., looked at me as I was shit on his shoe.
Steve
When I ordered my Chimaera 500 in Jan 98, the factory told me that mechanically, including suspension, brakes etc it would be exactly the same as a Griffith 500. I think before this it may have been different and now it may be different again, I suggest a phone call to the factory.
Cheers
Whitey
Cheers
Whitey
Thanks guys.
Steveab - it was Adrian who spoke to me the second time. I asked him about the Cerb (even though the investment committee (the other half) will only authorise a softtop purchase!) and he also steered me towards a Chim/Griff.
I also got the impression that their target market was the sort of person who bought their TVR with their city bonus, rather than the enthusiast. Nothing against the former, just I'd rather deal with the latter. Interesting that we both thought the same thing though!
Ed - sounds good - I'll e mail you separately. I live in Goring Heath - very close to you. The investment committee stables her horse in Checkendon - are the region meetings still at the 4 Horseshoes?
Steveab - it was Adrian who spoke to me the second time. I asked him about the Cerb (even though the investment committee (the other half) will only authorise a softtop purchase!) and he also steered me towards a Chim/Griff.
I also got the impression that their target market was the sort of person who bought their TVR with their city bonus, rather than the enthusiast. Nothing against the former, just I'd rather deal with the latter. Interesting that we both thought the same thing though!
Ed - sounds good - I'll e mail you separately. I live in Goring Heath - very close to you. The investment committee stables her horse in Checkendon - are the region meetings still at the 4 Horseshoes?
Andrew,
There have been a number of threads in the Chimaera which may be of use. Steve Heath's book would be a good investment - available through the TVRCC or direct (www.tvrbooks.co.uk/). this discusses the changes and differences. http://nlw2k4.nildram.co.uk:11914/gassing/topic.asp?t=5012&f=8&h=0
http://nlw2k4.nildram.co.uk:11914/gassing/topic.asp?t=5015&f=8&h=0
Bob the Planner
There have been a number of threads in the Chimaera which may be of use. Steve Heath's book would be a good investment - available through the TVRCC or direct (www.tvrbooks.co.uk/). this discusses the changes and differences. http://nlw2k4.nildram.co.uk:11914/gassing/topic.asp?t=5012&f=8&h=0
http://nlw2k4.nildram.co.uk:11914/gassing/topic.asp?t=5015&f=8&h=0
Bob the Planner
The Berkshire Region meetings have moved back to The Swan in Three Mile Cross, just off J11 of the M4. Next meeting is next Tuesday 15th January from about 7:30 onwards. We met for a while in the Four Horseshoes over summer, but as it's a bit out of the way, we've moved somewhere a bit more accessible for the winter months. www.tvr-berks.co.uk/
Of all the dealers I visited local to Berkshire, I found Fernhurst (www.fernhurst-tvr.co.uk/) the most friendly and helpful. I'd definitely recommend visiting them if you're in the market for a s/h Tiv.
Cheers,
Pete
Of all the dealers I visited local to Berkshire, I found Fernhurst (www.fernhurst-tvr.co.uk/) the most friendly and helpful. I'd definitely recommend visiting them if you're in the market for a s/h Tiv.
Cheers,
Pete
Andrew,
Henley Heritage is my closest dealer (I live just down the road from you), and I nearly bought from them but found they were not particularly user friendly.
Adrian got right up my nose once he realised I was not looking at a brand new car two years ago, and when I went back recently to have a look at a pre cat Griff he said it would be awkward to get it out for a test drive or give me a trade in price - but did I want to put a depsoit down !
Louise seems fine and phones now and again to see if I want to trade up. If I do my next TVR will be a Tamora, but I'd prob use a different dealer.
Paul (?) on the service desk is ok and I did have some work done there on my S3 although it was pricey and came back dirtier inside than when it went in.
I use Thames Valley Racetech for servicing and repairs, they seem very good so far, not as cheap as some independants but they do know all the bits that go wrong. They have worked on both my cars and each time I've been impressed.
They are expanding and opening a new service workshop in Sonning Common which is even better for me to get to. They will also stamp the service book and send the slip off to the factory.
Get in touch if you want to discuss more.
Cheers,
JSG.
Henley Heritage is my closest dealer (I live just down the road from you), and I nearly bought from them but found they were not particularly user friendly.
Adrian got right up my nose once he realised I was not looking at a brand new car two years ago, and when I went back recently to have a look at a pre cat Griff he said it would be awkward to get it out for a test drive or give me a trade in price - but did I want to put a depsoit down !
Louise seems fine and phones now and again to see if I want to trade up. If I do my next TVR will be a Tamora, but I'd prob use a different dealer.
Paul (?) on the service desk is ok and I did have some work done there on my S3 although it was pricey and came back dirtier inside than when it went in.
I use Thames Valley Racetech for servicing and repairs, they seem very good so far, not as cheap as some independants but they do know all the bits that go wrong. They have worked on both my cars and each time I've been impressed.
They are expanding and opening a new service workshop in Sonning Common which is even better for me to get to. They will also stamp the service book and send the slip off to the factory.
Get in touch if you want to discuss more.
Cheers,
JSG.
quote:
Andrew H - I'm up near Peppard - happy to take for a lap around the common.
Ed
Ed,
I drive to work that way and I'm sure I saw a S series and a Range Rover in a house next to the pub opposite the Dog (does that make sense?) Is that anything to do with you or do you know them ?
Cheers,
JSG.
quote:
Thames Valley Racetech in Sonning Common? About 3 miles or less from home. Damn damn damn - this is terrible news!!
I have virtually no excuses left - everything points to a TVR
Thats sorted that then. I'm not far from you in Goring so I may even give you a lift if the courtesy car isn't available.
I spoke to Harry at TVRacetech when I was there in December and he said they were taking over a garage in Sonning Common - I think it must be the one near the school on the way into Sonning Common from Cane End.
Cheers,
JSG
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