TVR CHIMAERA (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 32 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
32
Avg Mileage
46,796 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2002 TVR CHIMAERA reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 22 years old, 88% of TVR CHIMAERAs from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 32 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 46,796 miles.
How does the 2002 TVR CHIMAERA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 TVR CHIMAERA has 46,796 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a TVR CHIMAERA?
The most reliable year is the 2001 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 1994 model has the lowest at 83%. The 2002 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 2002 TVR CHIMAERA cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
TVR CHIMAERA by Year
Checking a specific TVR CHIMAERA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 TVR CHIMAERA
The 2002 TVR CHIMAERA is a performance with a 4546cc petrol engine. 32 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 12% of all 2002 cars for reliability.
With an average of 46,796 miles at 22 years old, TVR CHIMAERA owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2002 TVR CHIMAERA Fuel Costs
The 4546cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2002 TVR CHIMAERA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 88% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
TVR CHIMAERA Reliability Trend
Newer TVR CHIMAERAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 TVR CHIMAERA
At 22 years old, the TVR CHIMAERA is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2001 model has the highest pass rate at 97%. Note: with only 32 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2002 TVR CHIMAERA
The TVR CHIMAERA is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES CLK (2004) 76% pass rate (-12%) from 8,352 tests
- BMW X5 (2004) 77% pass rate (-11%) from 6,276 tests
- MERCEDES SL (2003) 86% pass rate (-2%) from 5,173 tests
- ROVER 75 (2004) 69% pass rate (-19%) from 4,012 tests