In 1994 both the Chimaera and Griffith 500 switched to a Borg Warner T5 gearbox (the previous unit coming from a Rover SD1). Shortly after that the TVR Chimaera 500 was launched.

Then in 1996 the Chimaera received a minor facelift, the front end becoming more like that of the Cerbera. The mesh grille was removed and a horizontal split added across the grille space and indicator. In 2001 the Chimaera was given Griff style covered headlights.

In around 1997-1998 the rear lights changed from a parts bin Fiesta unit to a TVR designed part.

Chimaera Variations

Peter's '94 Chimaera 400 demonstrating the front-end style of the earlier models.

Here's my '98 Chimaera 500 with the later Cerbera style front end. Note the horizontal split and removal of the grille.

David's '01 Chimaera 450 shows the latest style of headlights.

Stuart's '96 Chimaera 400 has the earlier lights.

Claire's '99 Chimaera 450 has the later, TVR rear lights.

TVR Chimaera Engines

Model	Capacity (cc)	Power (bhp)	Torque (lbf.ft)	Max speed (mph)	0-60 mph (secs)
4.0	3,950 V8	240	270 at 4000 rpm	152	4.7
4.0 HC	3,950 High Compression V8	275	305	158	4.7
4.3	4,280 V8	280	305 at 4000 rpm	158	4.6
4.5	4,495 V8	285	310	158	4.6
5.0	4,988 V8	340 (320 with cat)	350 (320 with cat)	169	4.1

TVR Chimaera Options

Air conditioning
Heated Seats
Power assisted steering
Rear speakers
Six CD autochanger
Full leather (Half-hide is standard)
Rollover Bar
Hydratrak Differential
Colour coded dials
Aluminium Dashboard
Chrome & Wood Steering Wheel

The TVR Chimaera 500

Of over 6000 TVR Chimaeras built, only around 600 were the 5 litre model. These relatively rare machines can be identified by their purple coloured rocker covers and 'Griffith style' wheels. They are probably the most desirable of the Chimaeras, with levels of performance close to that of the Griffith 500 whilst retaining greater practicality. NB. Sometimes you see adverts for 'TVR Chimaera 500/5.0 HC', all of the 500s are 'HC' so don't pay any extra...

Standard Wheels Griffith Wheels

Standard Chimaera Wheels Griffith Style Wheels

TVR Chimaera Facts

TVRs have always has their quirks but here are a few that are worth knowing.

Open the doors via the button either to the rear of the door or under the wing mirror (newer models)
The boot opens via the button under the dash to the right of the steering wheel.
If the dashboard doesn't illuminate with the lights check the button to the left of the steering wheel.
There is storage behind each of the seats and under the dash in front of the passenger.
Pressing the button on the door opening knob will disable the external buttons (to stop chavs popping them open when you're at the lights).
There is no buzzer to remind you that you've left the lights on (unless you add one).
The petrol filler is in the boot.
There is no 'low fuel' warning.
To get into reverse on a newer car (reverse right and down) you need to go via 5th to avoid a crrruuunnnch.
The Speedo back light is half as bright as the other instruments.

TVR Chimaera Press Quotes

Here are some quotes regarding the TVR Chimaera from the motoring press:

Fast Lane - "Overall, this is possibly the best handling front-engined/rear-driven sports car in the world."
Sports Car International - "There's little on the market that can touch the Chimaera for its seemingly incongruous blend of high performance, road behaviour, individuality and value."
Evo - "What you get are straight-forward, old-fashioned thrills. Buy wisely and you wont be disappointed."
Performance Car - "The TVR sounds as glorious as a Rolls-Royce Merlin aero engine."
Car - "The Chimaera sounds good and pulls enough wallop to satisfy all but the utterly power-crazed."
Autocar Magazine - "TVR completely blitzes the opposition, in any gear, from any speed to any speed"
TopGear Magazine - "The Chimaera is great fun to drive even when you're just tootling along."
Jeremy Clarkson - "It's spacious cockpit is a dream too, with wood, leather and polished aluminium styled by someone who truly understands interior design."
Autocar Magazine - "Chassis and engine mate brilliantly."
Autocar Magazine - "Superb - Chimaera 4.5 is a winner!"

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