Description
TVR Chimaera | 1995
Highlights:
- 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine with manual transmission
- Documented history from the UK and Netherlands with extensive invoices
- Chassis restoration and upgrades including polyurethane bushes and Proshock suspension
- Upgraded brakes from the 5.0-litre version
- Dutch registration, long-term ownership, garage-stored
The seller offers for sale a 1995 TVR Chimaera, a British-built cabriolet with a 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. This car comes with an extensive history file including invoices, photographs of work carried out, and reference material. Originally delivered in the UK, the car was imported to the Netherlands 16 years ago by its current owner and has been maintained since. It has been kept indoors in a heated environment and retains original TVR parts throughout.
The TVR’s chassis was restored four years ago, treated against corrosion, and coated with a durable marine-grade protective finish. The suspension has been upgraded with Proshock shocks and springs, both height- and damping-adjustable. All bushes were replaced with polyurethane for more precise handling. Braking has been improved using the original TVR 5.0-litre specification, offering increased stopping power. The car benefits from continuous maintenance, with annual oil changes, servicing, and Dutch APK inspections consistently passed.
Recent mechanical work includes a new clutch, release bearing, pinion bearing, upgraded clutch arm, spark plug leads, and battery within the last 7,000 miles. Around 4,000 miles ago, the engine received a new hybrid camshaft, followers, head gaskets, and timing gear, all supplied by John Eales. Software modifications have been applied to improve drivability, though the original ECU chip is included. A comprehensive technical handbook and supporting documentation, including Steve Heath’s “Bible” for TVR Griffith and Chimaera models, accompanies the car.
The exterior retains its original paint, showing light scratches and stone chips typical of a fibreglass-bodied car of this age, but overall remains straight and presentable. The chassis work has ensured that the structure is solid and free from corrosion. The interior has been refurbished with new carpeting, while the dashboard has been renewed due to the common wood veneer issues. The leather upholstery shows light patina consistent with age and use, but no tears or major defects.
Technically, the car is reported to be in good condition. The engine starts and runs cleanly with no smoke or unusual noises. The gearbox shifts smoothly and the electrics, including lights and indicators, function correctly. The car has a valid Dutch inspection and is ready for use.
The TVR Chimaera was introduced in 1992 as a more comfortable counterpart to the Griffith, retaining the raw performance of a lightweight V8 roadster while adding greater usability. Powered by Rover-derived V8 engines in various displacements, it quickly became one of TVR’s best-selling models. Its combination of muscular styling, convertible body, and strong performance made it a popular choice among enthusiasts who wanted something distinct from mainstream sports cars.
TVR’s philosophy was always rooted in building driver-focused machines without unnecessary electronics or driver aids. The Chimaera embodies this spirit, offering a direct and mechanical connection between driver, car, and road. Produced until 2003, it played a crucial role in keeping TVR’s production numbers strong during the 1990s and has since become a representative model of the marque. Its relative rarity outside the UK adds to its appeal in continental Europe, where it remains a distinctive and desirable collector’s item.
Imperfections on this example are limited to cosmetic details: the original paint shows scratches and stone chips, and the convertible roof displays wear at the hinge area of the targa section, though it remains functional. The leather interior shows age-related patina, and the soft top may need attention in the future. Structurally and mechanically, the car presents as sound, with no accident history, rust, or significant faults noted.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Gelderland, Nederland.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
