1996 TVR Chimaera 4.0 |

Closed Auction- Unsold

1996 TVR Chimaera 4.0

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Mileage~63,795
TransmissionManual
Engine4.0L
LocationChesterfield

AUCTION CLOSED

1996 TVR Chimaera 4.0

Introduction

Paul Wright

Professional Consigner

Shoehorning a 4.0-litre V8 into a fibreglass-bodied sports car — what a fantastic idea! And it doesn’t disappoint.

TVR is notorious for breaking the mould and doing things a little differently. The Blackpool-born company started around 1947 and has produced some of the most iconic lightweight sports cars the UK has ever seen. The Chimaera hits the sweet spot between a highly focused performance car and a usable weekend toy. Under the lightweight fibreglass bonnet, you'll find the Rover V8 with its simple and robust mechanics. Underside the body, the Chimaera is based on the same tubular chassis as the Griffith but with a slight focus on comfort and more luggage space. It quickly became TVR's best-selling model, surpassing the Griffith, and was praised for its handling balance.

This 1996 TVR Chimaera has just come from a ~9 year cherished ownership, and has had thorough servicing over 2022/2023, it is now waiting for the next lucky custodian, who will surely enjoy this British classic just as much.

This listing was written from information supplied by Paul after meeting Justin the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

Fresh from 9 year enthusiast ownership, this car is ready for a new custodian.

While selling another car, Justin came across the TVR, and during the process, he was asked if he would consider taking the TVR in part exchange. The proposition was too tempting to refuse. After all, who could resist the appeal of a lightweight, British-made V8 sports car? Certainly not Justin. A deal was struck, and the TVR became his.

He will be on hand to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Justin

Trade Seller

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CONTACT OWNER

Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

With its lightweight fibreglass body, the TVR not only boasts a striking appearance but is even more exhilarating when your foot is down!

Wheels and Tyres

The original five-spoke wheels were refurbished in July 2023. These have been finished in "Shadow Chrome" and are all in excellent condition. A matching set of Nankang tyres has been fitted, and these have plenty of tread remaining.

Please see the image gallery for a closer look at the wheels.

Bodywork

Looking around the TVR, the panel gaps appear consistent, and no damage was spotted to the fibreglass body. The carbon fibre roof fits well and can be removed in a matter of seconds. It is trimmed in red material, which is in excellent condition, as is the rear half of the roof, which folds down.

We’ve highlighted our observations in more detail through our high-resolution images and videos. Please take the time to review all media files to assess the car’s condition for yourself.

Paint

Finished in "Ruby Red Mica", the TVR is undeniably a stunning colour. The paintwork is generally in very good condition. The front end has received some touch-up paint, which is common on a TVR, as stone chips are inevitable.

The images were taken from various angles to show the car as you would see it in person. Please fully assess these high-resolution images and videos to form your own opinion of the paint’s condition.

Glass and Trim

All windows are in good condition, with no noticeable scratches, and the seals appear to be in good order. The plastic rear window is also in good condition, with no creasing or discolouration.

The headlights are undamaged, and are also in good order as pictured.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Inside the TVR, leather upholstery and aluminium controls create a luxurious, sporty feel.

Seats and Carpets

The interior is finished in Oatmeal/Beige leather. The seats are in good condition with just a light amount of age-related creasing.

The carpets throughout are in great condition, including the boot, where the spare wheel and jack are present. Just the drivers mat shows expected signs of use. Please see the interior gallery for more detailed images.

Dashboard

The dashboard is in good condition, with no splits or cracks, and is finished in leather to match the seats. The instruments present well, and the odometer shows a reading of ~63,795 miles.

We did notice on the way back from the beauty shots that the water temperature gauge was not operating, and there is some cracking to the walnut fascia. Please see the interior gallery for high-resolution images.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Fitted with a wood-rimmed Monza steering wheel, this is in excellent condition with no signs of excessive wear. The aluminium gear knob complements the handbrake lever and is in good condition.

Please see the interior gallery for more detailed images.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Equipped with a V8 engine typically reserved for a Range Rover, TVR went the extra mile to enhance performance further.

Engine and Gearbox

The TVR's engine fires up effortlessly, producing a fantastic V8 burble that adds to its appeal. A quick inspection of the engine bay reveals no leaks or issues of concern. It has seen thorough maintenance in 2023 which included a new camshaft kit and gears for the oil pump, along with the waterpump being replaced in 2021.

The car performs superbly on the road, pulling strongly through the manual five-speed gearbox, which shifts with precision.

Suspension and Brakes

On the road, the TVR handles well, with no knocks or bangs from either corner of the car. The adjustable coil-over suspension units have all been replaced as part of an overhaul in 2022 and are in excellent condition, with no signs of corrosion.

The car stops as well as it goes with the brakes overhauled in 2022; some corrosion was noted on the rear discs, simply due to lack of use over the past few months. A fresh MOT confirms these are functioning correctly, with no issues reported.

The Drive

The TVR is an absolute thrill on the road. Its powerful V8 engine creates a soundtrack that grabs attention long before the car appears. When it finally does, it’s a sight that never fails to get noticed—a sleek and striking sports car, with the TVR Chimaera's design making a lasting impression.

Electrics and Other

All switchgear in the car appears to be working correctly, and the aluminium buttons and heater controls are in good condition. A Kenwood head unit is installed, with a removable faceplate.

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History and Paperwork

This car comes to market from prior ~9 year ownership, has had thorough maintenance actioned in 2022/2023, and now with a service ~125 miles ago and an MOT expiring next summer, the TVR is primed and ready to be enjoyed.

The car comes with two keys, owner manuals, and a healthy service history, all documented in the paperwork folder. This TVR ticks a lot of boxes for anyone looking to own one of Blackpool's finest sports cars.

We’ve conducted our usual seller checks, including photo ID, V5, and a professional history check via HPI. This check will highlight if the car has been stolen, recorded in an accident, or has outstanding finance, although it does not include a mileage history check.

We’ve summarised our view of the car based on the seller’s information. However, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the vehicle in high-resolution detail. Please take the time to review everything in this listing to make your own assessment. Viewings are also welcome—please get in touch to arrange a suitable time. We just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house. This is an auction on behalf of a trade seller and normal auction rules apply, i.e. there is no warranty, no return policy and bids are binding with more info in our terms and conditions.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
29.06.2024	MOT	63,785
27.05.2023	MOT	63,613
24.05.2023	Service	63,600
13.05.2022	MOT	63,460
08.06.2021	MOT	63,442
03.07.2017	MOT	63,346
15.06.2016	MOT	63,312
03.08.2015	MOT/Service	63,162
01.08.2014	MOT	62,932
10.04.2012	MOT	62,085
12.11.2010	MOT	589,520 Entered wrong by MOT tester
02.05.2009	MOT	57,600
10.05.2008	MOT	56,881
12.05.2007	MOT	55,526
01.04.2006	MOT	54,302
14.04.2005	Service	53,466
08.10.2004	MOT	52,740
29.05.2003	MOT	50,096
24.05.2003	Service	50,085
08.06.2002	MOT	48,632
15.05.2002	Service	48,588
17.05.2001	Service	46,896
29.08.2000	Service	42,665
04.08.2000	MOT	41,765
25.01.2000	Service	35,730
20.07.1999	Service	29,600
09.07.1999	MOT	28,925
08.02.1999	Service	23,820
03.08.1998	Service	17,676
16.02.1998	Service	12,211
05.03.1997	Service	6,281
17.10.1996	Service	1,397

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Key Details

ModelChimaera 4.0
TransmissionManual
Reg. Date01.08.1996
CC3952
Mileage~63,795
HistoryYes
ColourRuby Mica Red
Interior ColourBeige
Interior TrimLeather
Chassis #SDLSCC4P9TG011710
Engine #37A0P3995
MOTExp: 28.06.2025
HPi ClearYes
Former Keepers9
# of Keys2
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypeTrade
Key FeatureWell maintained example
Auction ID2205

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Vehicle Location

Chesterfield

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Seller : justin

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2 Comments

MERV

5 months ago

What is the general condition of the chassis and outriggers

justin

Seller

MERV

5 months ago

Hi there! They are in excellent condition. It has been stored in a heated garage and is only taken out for its annual MOT and occasional driving to keep everything in working order. It has always been garaged.

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Vehicle Location

Chesterfield

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