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Curated Auction

1998 TVR Chimaera

At a Glance

10-Year Ownership | New Outriggers Fitted ~5 Years Ago | Undersealed Chassis | Recent Clutch | Original Service Book

  • Mileage~55,584 on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine4.0-Litre
  • LocationSwadlincote, South Derbyshire

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

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CURRENT BID£8,400
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AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£8,400

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Video #2

Introduction

Ashley Dawson
Professional Consigner

Few cars capture the spirit of British sports car motoring quite like the TVR Chimaera - combining dramatic styling, a lightweight chassis and a characterful V8 soundtrack, it remains one of the most engaging open-top driving experiences available at any price.

Finished in a striking metallic blue with a contrasting cream leather interior, this 1998 example has been cherished by its current owner, John, for the past decade. During that time, the car has been maintained with enjoyment and reliability in mind, benefitting from several significant mechanical upgrades and improvements including new outriggers fitted ~5 years ago, a replacement clutch, new shock absorbers and twin cooling fans.

With just over 55,000 miles displayed and presented in honest, usable condition throughout, this Chimaera offers the opportunity to enjoy one of TVR's most iconic models exactly as intended, it comes with a current MOT valid until 12.03.2027.

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

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Vehicle Delivery

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

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.

Video #2

Meet the owner

I've owned this TVR Chimaera for the past 10 years and it's been a hugely enjoyable car to have.

Speaking with John the owner, it's clear this Chimaera has been a genuinely cherished car rather than simply an occasional toy. Having remained in his ownership for a decade, the car has benefitted from continuous care and sensible investment, including new outriggers, fitted around 5 years ago, a recent clutch, upgraded cooling and suspension improvements.

The decision to sell comes solely from a change in lifestyle, with John and his wife now looking towards a Jaguar that will allow them to undertake longer touring trips across Europe.

John will be happy to answer any questions in the comments section below.

John
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

Finished in a striking metallic blue, the car benefits from the timeless proportions and distinctive styling that have helped make the Chimaera one of TVR's most enduring models.

Wheels and Tyres

The car sits on its original five-spoke alloy wheels, which complement the Chimaera's classic design well. The wheels present in good condition with only light age-related wear visible upon close inspection.

The tyres appear to be in good visual condition, all apart from the offside rear are Bridgestone, with the offside rear being a Goodyear.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

image

Bodywork

The TVR presents well overall and remains every bit as eye-catching today as it was when new. The fibreglass bodywork appears straight throughout, with the panel fit consistent with what would be expected from a TVR of this era.

John reports that the car has benefitted from the underside being undersealed for additional protection and peace of mind.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

image

Paint

Finished in metallic blue, the paintwork retains an excellent depth of colour and continues to highlight the Chimaera's flowing curves.

There are some light scratches visible in the lacquer in places, along with a number of small stone chips to the front end that are consistent with age and use.

Overall, the car presents as an honest and usable example rather than an over-restored showpiece.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

image

Glass and Trim

The exterior trim presents well overall, with the badges, lighting units and brightwork all appearing complete and in good order.

The hood appears to fit correctly, while the glass and lenses show no obvious issues

Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself.

image
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INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

The cabin presents well overall, offering the distinctive blend of craftsmanship, character and analogue charm that defines a late-1990s TVR.

Seats and Carpets

Finished in cream leather, the seats remain in good condition and continue to present well for their age. The upholstery shows only light signs of use, while the embroidered TVR logos add a nice finishing touch.

The carpets show some age-related wear, though nothing that detracts significantly from the overall presentation of the interior.

Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself.

image

Dashboard

The dashboard retains its original TVR character, featuring the distinctive curved design, white-faced gauges and attractive wood veneer trim.

The switchgear, instrumentation and trim pieces appear complete and in good order, creating a cockpit that feels both unique and unmistakably British.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The wood-rimmed steering wheel remains a standout feature of the cabin and presents well, complementing the wood trim across the dashboard.

The aluminium gear knob and leather gaiter continue the purposeful sports car feel, while the driving position places all major controls comfortably within reach. Together, they provide a tactile and engaging driving experience that modern cars often struggle to replicate.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

Benefitting from a number of significant maintenance items during the current ownership, this Chimaera appears to be a well-sorted and usable example.

Engine and Gearbox

Power comes from TVR's characterful V8 engine, which John describes as running strongly with no unusual noises or concerns. The engine starts readily, idles well and delivers the performance expected of a Chimaera.

The gearbox operates as intended, while a replacement clutch fitted less than 1,000 miles ago provides welcome reassurance for the next owner.

image

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension has benefitted from the fitment of new shock absorbers, helping the car maintain a composed and confidence-inspiring feel on the road.

John reports that the suspension performs well and that the car drives as it should.

The replacement outriggers further enhance the car's long-term appeal. These were fitted ~5 years ago but the car has covered less than 1,000 miles since.

image

The Drive

The Chimaera delivers the engaging and analogue driving experience for which TVR is renowned.

The car feels responsive and planted, with the V8 providing effortless performance accompanied by a soundtrack that perfectly suits the car's character.

The owner assures us that the car drives nicely and remains an enjoyable sports car to use.

image

Electrics and Other

Additional improvements include the installation of twin cooling fans, helping to improve cooling efficiency and reliability.

During the owner's decade of stewardship, the car has been maintained with usability in mind, resulting in an example that appears ready to be enjoyed by its next custodian.

image
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Video #2

History and Paperwork

The Chimaera benefits from a history file that supports the care and maintenance it has received during the current ownership.

Having been in John's ownership for the past 10 years, the car has benefitted from ongoing maintenance and sensible investment throughout that period. Notable work includes the fitment of new outriggers fitted ~5 years ago, a replacement clutch fitted less than 1,000 miles ago, new shock absorbers, twin cooling fans and undersealing to the chassis.

Together, these improvements help demonstrate the level of care the car has received and provide reassurance that it has been maintained with long-term enjoyment in mind. The history file helps support the car's well-cared-for condition and ownership story.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us 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 bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
13/03/2026 MOT 55,546
25/04/2024 MOT 55,508
04/05/2023 MOT 55,448
22/04/2022 MOT 55,364
12/01/2021 MOT 55,311
02/05/2019 MOT 55,151
27/03/2018 MOT 55,039
29/03/2017 MOT 54,510
03/03/2016 Service 53,288
02/03/2016 MOT 53,288
26/11/2015 MOT 53,276
07/08/2014 Service 53,236
03/7/2009 Service 45,225
03/06/2008 MOT 42,995
02/07/2007 Service 40,931
02/06/2007 MOT 40,931
05/06/2006 Service 39,031
05/06/2005 Service 37,201
19/05/2005 MOT 37,581
03/06/2004 Service 36,031
28/02/2003 Service 30,409
21/11/2001 Service 21,929
09/02/2001 Service 17,758
21/04/2000 Service 12,171
26/02/1999 Service 4,388
05/06/1998 Service 1,212
VIEW ALL
Key Details
  • Model Chimaera
  • Transmission Manual
  • Reg. Date 09/04/1998
  • CC 3952
  • Mileage ~55,584 On clock
  • Colour Blue
  • Interior Colour Cream
  • Interior Trim Leather
  • Chassis # SDLBA01R8WB001303
  • Engine # 37A40P5970
  • MOT Yes Exp. 12/03/2027
  • HPi Clear Yes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers 7
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned ~10 years, 3 months
  • Key Feature Well Maintained
  • Vehicle Registration R958 LWY
  • Driver’s Side Right
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type Convertible
  • Auction ID 3772
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Swadlincote, South Derbyshire

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    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £8,400
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    Countdown Timer
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    Auction Ends Thu 9th Jul at 7.30pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  5
    £8,400 bid by murchg230.06.26 @ 08:10:41
    £8,200 bid by Stupot91130.06.26 @ 06:58:50
    £8,000 bid by Herdymagic26.06.26 @ 20:40:48
    £2,500 bid by EVTIlsley26.06.26 @ 09:56:51
    £2,000 bid by paulshipway25.06.26 @ 20:20:53
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
    1693
    Ask Owner
    Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
    9 Comments
    murchg2
    murchg2
    5 days ago

    Hello was just wondering if there is any history on the fuel pipes being replaced or what kind of condition they are in?

    BJon
    BJon
    Seller
      murchg2
    4 days ago

    The fuel and radiator pipes were replaced prior to me purchasing it. They are in good condition.

    paulshipway
    paulshipway
    6 days ago

    The history shows the last service was in 2016, is this correct?

    BJon
    BJon
    Seller
      paulshipway
    5 days ago

    The car has been serviced annually prior to its MOT

    Chris996
    Chris996
    6 days ago

    Is it possible to arrange a viewing of the car. Possibly Friday/Saturday at a time to suit yourself ?
    Thx

    ColinB
    ColinB
    Admin
      Chris996
    6 days ago

    Hi Chris,

    We can help arrange a viewing, if you could send an email to [email protected] first, we just need to do some checks.

    Thanks,
    Colin.

    BJon
    BJon
    Seller
      Chris996
    6 days ago

    Sorry I’m away at present. I can do next week if that suits?

    Ccrowne
    Ccrowne
    6 days ago

    Hi there, lovely looking car. I can’t see any details of the work done on the outriggers or shock absorbers. Sorry if I missed this. Do you have more details? Thanks

    BJon
    BJon
    Seller
      Ccrowne
    6 days ago

    Hi
    The Protech shocks were fitted 3 years ago and the outriggers replaced and undersealed 5 years ago. In that time the car has been driven less than 500 miles, always garaged and never driven in the wet. I’ve attached a photo of one of the shock absorbers, its not very clear as theres a lot of engine in the way, but it will give you an indication.

    IMG_0092.jpeg

    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a Chimaera like this is £226 via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2026.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Swadlincote, South Derbyshire

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