1998 TVR Chimaera 4.0

KEY FACTS

• This TVR Chimaera 4.0 is a visceral British sports car, with interesting provenance having been purchased by Scottish singer-songwriter Paolo Nutini for his mother.
• It is powered by a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre V8, delivering 231bhp to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.
• Nutini is quoted in the Daily Record newspaper as saying, “The biggest amount of money I've ever spent on a Christmas pressie was on a red TVR for my mum. Unfortunately, she was too short for the pedals so she had to get some extenders. I think I was hoping to use it myself sometime”. The adjustable pedals are still present, and there are some invoices in the history file addressed to Paolo Nutini and his father, plus an old V5 in the family name.
• The odometer indicates 65,783 miles, which the seller believes to be genuine.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• The car is finished in red with a black soft top over a cream leather-trimmed cabin.
• It rides on a set of 17-inch aftermarket forged monoblock alloy wheels.
• Equipment includes a Kenwood CD stereo.
• Accompanying the sale is a large history file including the owner’s handbook, various invoices, and some historic MOT certificates and tax discs.

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• Specific notes from the seller include: stone chips and blemishes on the paintwork, and light wear in the cabin and on the gear knob.
• The seller also notes that the carpets, door cards, and centre console appear to have been replaced and reupholstered.
• The most recent MOT test was conducted on 30 June 2026 at 65,738 miles, resulting in a clean first-time pass.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The seller states that the car was last serviced in June 2026 at 65,783 miles by Kingston Cars & Commercials, who renewed the engine oil and filter.
• Prior to this, the seller states that TVR specialist Ecosse carried out a service in May 2025 at 65,635 miles.
• The service history documents are shown in the photo gallery and summarised below by the seller.

Service mileage history:

• PDI - TMS TVR - 6 MILES
• SERVICE - TMS TVR - 1005 MILES
• SERVICE - TMS TVR - 6490 MILES
• SERVICE - TMS TVR - 12790 MILES
• SERVICE - TMS TVR - 18242 MILES
• SERVICE - TMS TVR - 30491 MILES
• SERVICE - AYR AUDI VW SERVICE CENTRE - 38950 MILES
• SERVICE - AYR AUDI VW SERVICE CENTRE - 44873 MILES
• SERVICE - AYR AUDI VW SERVICE CENTRE - 48356 MILES
• SERVICE - LORIMER & FINDLAY LTD - 59999 MILES
• SERVICE - TVR ECOSSE - 62417 MILES
• SERVICE - TVR ECOSSE - 63630 MILES
• SERVICE - TVR ECOSSE - 64033 MILES
• SERVICE - TVR ECOSSE - 65635 MILES
• SERVICE - KINGSTON CARS & COMMERCIALS - 65783 MILES

SUMMARY

The TVR Chimaera is a characterful and exciting British sports car, celebrated for its potent V8 engine, engaging manual transmission, and distinctive styling. This example benefits from a re-upholstered interior and aftermarket wheels and would make a thrilling companion for weekend blasts and spirited drives.

Descriptions are provided by the seller and, to their knowledge, are accurate and not misleading. Buyers must satisfy themselves of the description’s accuracy, and independent research is strongly advised. Enquiries should be raised in the comments section and any inspections arranged before bidding.

Classic and collectible vehicles may have had cosmetic or bodywork repairs that are not visually apparent. Photographs may not accurately reflect colour or condition, so buyers should confirm key details directly with the seller. Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a car or bike. 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. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.