1999 TVR CHIMAERA 450 - SUPERCHARGED 490BHP

This TVR Chimaera is a striking example of a handsome British sports car, which benefits from some subtle upgrades and enhanced performance. Under the bonnet sits a 4.5-litre Rover V8, which now produces significantly more power – 490bhp – thanks to the addition of a supercharger, coupled to an engaging five-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently indicates 64,310 miles.

First registered in July 1999, this TVR has been in the possession of its current keeper for the last three years, though has reportedly only covered 25 miles within this time. As well as the addition of a supercharger, the vendor notes this example comes with uprated brakes and a revised suspension system.

To the best of the owner’s knowledge, this Chimaera has never sustained any damage to its bodywork, presenting with smooth panels and flush shut lines. The Rolex Blue paintwork is believed to be original and is described as being in good condition, with only minor age-related blemishes, and some stone chips around the lower bumpers. The light lenses and body trims are in good order, while the blue soft-top roof is fully operational and presents without any visible damage to the fabric. It rides on a set of 17-inch split-rim alloy wheels, which remain in superb order on all four corners.

Moving inside, this TVR features cream leather upholstery, which presents with some creasing and slight discolouration to the seats, but is otherwise in good order. The same trim extends over the dashboard, transmission tunnel and door cards. The centre console and instrument binnacle fascia feature walnut burr inlays, and there are smart metal dials and knobs for the main controls. There is a three-spoke Monza steering wheel, which is in very good condition, while there are only surface marks on the metal gear knob and handbrake grip. Everything is reported to work as it should, with no electrical faults.

The last service was undertaken in November 2020, when levels were checked and fluids were replenished. As it has largely been in storage, with only 25 miles covered in the vendor’s ownership, no other services have been carried out in that period.

The most recent MOT test was on 18 November 2020 at 64,310 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects. The wheels come wrapped with Toyo Proxes tyres all round, which the vendor reports have 8mm of tread remaining on all four corners.

An extensive history file of paperwork and literature accompanies the vehicle, including the original service book, a folder of invoices, a number of MOT certificate and registration documents.

This TVR Chimaera is an eye-catching roadster, presented in very good condition throughout, and with upgraded supercharged performance on tap. A characterful British sports car; the Chimaera is undoubtedly a modern classic, and this example is one that is ready to relish on the road, with its analogue driving experience putting a huge smile on its next owner’s face.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history where available. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.