1995 TVR Chimaera 500

KEY FACTS

• A rewarding V8-powered modern classic British sports car, the TVR Chimaera 500 offers an exciting analogue driving experience.
• It is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine, driving the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
• First registered in November 1995, this example has been with the seller for over five and a half years.
• The car benefited from a body-off restoration and mechanical rebuild completed fewer than 1,000 miles ago by TVR Ecosse.
• It is one of around 600 Chimera 500 built.
• The seller reports that the car is featured in the forthcoming book TVR Chimaera: The Complete History by Ralph Dodds, and was the recent winner of a TVR Car Club photographic competition.
• The odometer indicates 91,857 miles, which the seller believes to be the genuine total.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• This Chimaera 500 is finished in the attractive shade of Soul Red Crystal with a black soft-top roof, over a reportedly re-trimmed grey and red leather-trimmed interior, featuring red stitching, embroidered TVR logos on the headrests, diamond-quilted sections on the seats and transmission tunnel, and brushed aluminium trim.
• It rides on a set of 16-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels fitted with Toyo Proxes T1R tyres.
• Equipment includes a Personal steering wheel, a top-tinted windscreen, an aluminium gear knob and handbrake handle, heater and ventilation controls, an analogue clock, and electric windows.
• This example has been fitted with a Sony CD stereo with Bluetooth connectivity, modern ethanol-resistant fuel hoses, LED lighting upgrades, new battery, a replacement alarm and immobiliser, and a detailed suspension and chassis refresh along with a full alignment and geometry optimisation.
• Accompanied by two keys, the V5C, the partially stamped service booklet, and a folder of maintenance invoices.

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• Specific notes from the seller include that the interior has been retrimmed in a custom style.
• MOT test history is shown via the button in the listing overview.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The car has undergone a body-off chassis restoration and refurbishment, and the seller states that this included a complete exterior repaint in Mazda Soul Red Crystal and an interior retrim, the engine removed, stripped down and rebuilt by renowned Rover V8 specialists V8 Developments, with a cross-bolted and blueprinted engine build incorporating performance upgrades, specialist tuning and calibration carried out by Joolz at Kits & Classics, the gearbox and differential refurbished, while further upgrades include GAZ suspension, a Cosworth brake upgrade, and a full fast-road geometry set-up. Invoices relating to work performed are available in the photo gallery.
• The seller states that it was most recently serviced in May 2025 at an indicated 91,802 Miles, which included a full rebuild.
• A full service was completed in October 2022 by TVR Ecosse, which included a new battery, new fuel hoses being fitted, and the underside of the car being power-washed and Waxoyl applied.
• A full respray was carried out in December 2022 by TVR Ecosse.

SUMMARY

The TVR Chimaera 500 is a charismatic and exciting modern classic British sports car, celebrated for its potent V8 engine and engaging, analogue driving dynamics. This particular example features a 5.0-litre V8 and a five-speed manual gearbox, and has recently benefited from a full respray. It would make an exciting acquisition for any enthusiast seeking a distinctive and rewarding weekend toy or a captivating addition to a collection of performance cars.

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.