While enthusiasts might...

While enthusiasts might prefer the faster Griffith, the Chimaera outsold its rival to become the most popular car in the company"s history - and it"s the best used bet, too.

Not only is it easier to find, but late examples are also the most reliable TVRs money can buy. Admittedly, purchasing any of the firm"s offerings is brave. But if you dream of having a thunderous, Brit-built roadster, the Chimaera merits close inspection. Even the base 4.0-litre V8 covers 0-60mph in 5.2 seconds and hits nearly 160mph. What"s more, all have a versatile roof set-up, with a removable centre panel for targa-style motoring.

Heavy steering, poor refinement and dodgy build are the major problems, but on a second-hand example major niggles should already have been fixed. Even so, a full service history is essential, and check carefully for body damage, because repairing the fibreglass shell is a specialist task. A 2001 facelift brought fared-in headlights, improved trim and tweaked suspension.