9th Jun, 2026 10:00
Classic Cars
61
A 1998 TVR Chimaera 400
Registration Number: R953 MGT
Chassis Number. SDLBA01R8WB001124
Engine Number. 37A4005858
Odometer Reading: 43,050
For an enthusiast, the appeal of the Chimaera lies not only in its performance but in the experience it delivers. Few cars offer such a direct connection between driver, engine and road. The soundtrack of the Rover‑derived 4.0 V8, the lightness of the chassis and the unmistakable TVR styling, combine to create a sense of occasion every time the key is turned. It is a car that rewards involvement, invites long summer drives and stands apart from more common modern sports cars. To own a Chimaera is to enjoy a uniquely British blend of charm, character and mechanical honesty, and this low-mileage example presents an excellent opportunity to experience that for yourself.
For Blackpool‑based TVR, the Chimaera became its most prolific model. Across all versions, almost six thousand examples were produced worldwide, exceeding the company’s total output from the previous twenty‑five years. This reflects what the Chimaera was intended to be: the smaller sibling to the Griffith, sharing its DNA but offering a more classically styled and relaxed approach to motoring. It is a true cruising sports car, full of character, with ample performance available whenever required. With this being the far-closer-related facelift model, which added better braking, roll bars and other styling cues, this Green over Tan example expresses that character particularly well.
Mechanically, this Chimaera is in well‑kept and good order. The 4.0 litre V8 runs smoothly, and the tactile Borg Warner T5 gearbox selects gears cleanly. It has recently been fitted with new Uniroyal RainExpert tyres, which have seen minimal use. The current MOT is valid until October 2026.
The vendor has owned the car for the past eleven years, during which time it has been serviced annually by Hilton and Moss, as documented in the history file. The car is offered with both the standard carbon fibre roof panel and the more desirable folding fabric roof option, ideal for compact touring storage.
Footnote:
NOTE: BUYER'S PREMIUM FOR THIS LOT IS 12.5%.
Condition Report
In good running order, the engine starts hot and cold without trouble, or puff of any vapour. The gearbox selects well also.
the tyres are near new with minimal wear.
the wheels are in good Order without noticeable markings.
The Outriggers were replaced in 2015, invoice dated 1/10/2015
The car is HPI clear
The car does not have PAS
One wheel is missing a logo centre cap, the vinyl has possibly come away from the cap.
The body work is very straight, there is one scuff on the nose of the bonnet, possibly from contact when opening the bonnet on an incline. There is also a mark next to the boot lid on the drivers side. marks from use and stone chips
The interior is in good order, the roof functions as it should folding and remaining as a 'targa'.
The exhaust is standard and doesn't appear or sound to have any leaks.
The underside also appears to be in good order throughout.
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Auction: Classic Cars, 9th Jun, 2026
Please note: Motor vehicles and motorcycles (lots 52 and 54-63) are subject to Buyer's Premium at 12.5% plus VAT @20%
Viewing
Stansted Viewing | Auction
Viewing will be held at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE, as follows:
Friday 5 June, 10am - 4pm
Saturday 6 June, 10am - 2pm
Sunday 7 June, 10am - 2pm
Monday 8 June, 10am - 4pm
Tuesday 9 June, 9am - 10am
The auction will take place at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE.
Please note that this item is not suitable for a pre-sale automated shipping estimate due to the items weight/size.
The below table shows indicative shipping costs for larger items being delivered within the UK mainland. Please note that all the below costs are purely for indicative purposes and are to be used as a guideline only. If you purchase multiple large items, we will combine deliveries to reduce the shipping costs.
Should you be successful in buying this item, a specific shipping estimate will need to be requested after the sale using the link in your invoice email; this also includes all requests for international delivery.
If you would like further information about shipping and collection please see here.
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