Highlights
- Rare MG with proper 3.9litre V8 thunder
- Classic styling with luxurious trim
- Long MOT with no advisories
- Retrofitted with power steering
- Thick history file
The Appeal
The MG RV8 was one of those make-do-and-mend solutions that Britain seems to specialise in and which somehow grab glory out of inauspicious beginnings. Designed to rejuvenate interest in the MG brand ahead of the new MGF, the RV8 channelled TVR with its combination of leather, wood, retro styling and a big grunty V8.
The new car had the familiar MGB profile but only 5% of the panels were shared. Under the bonnet was Rover’s burbling 3.9litre V8 and in the cabin lots of wood and leather. Of the 1,983 built, 1,500 went to Japan and the rest stayed in the UK.
This is one of the repatriated cars, returning early in its life and with its current owner for 9 years. Well maintained and smartly presented in Woodcote Green with a long MOT this is an opportunity to buy one of MG’s rarest but most capable convertibles.
The History and Paperwork
- 1995 first UK registered on 1st January 2001
- Certificate of Conformity from Rover dated 7th November 2000
- Certificate shows build date as May 1995
- 2 set of keys with immobiliser
- MG RV8 workshop manual included
- Original handbooks
- Vendor states that the car wears its original Woodcote Green metallic paintwork
- MOT to 25th June 2024 with minor advisories for oil and differential leaks and suspension bump stop
- Current owner since 3rd November 2014
The Interior
- Opulent interior combining leather and wood veneers
- Tan leather seats in good condition with only light creasing to driver’s seat to note
- Carpets in good condition with protective MG over mats
- Wind deflector
- Face-off Sony stereo radio/cassette with boot-mounted CD multichanger
- Carpeted boot area with space saver space and MG tool roll
- Battery trickle charger fitted
- Wood veneers very attractive and in unmarked condition
- Very light wear to the gear knob
- Door cappings and leather door trims in good condition with clean fittings
The Exterior
- Popular Woodcote Green metallic paintwork in good overall condition
- Evokes the MGB shape but few panels are interchangeable
- Wider track to improve handling over classic MGBs
- Original factory lattice-style alloy wheels with no visible damage or kerbing
- Fabric hood in good condition with clear panels
- Hood would likely benefit from cleaning and re-proofing to match the rest of the car
- Tan tonneau cover
- Glasswork including headlights shared with Porsche 911 in good condition with no visible cracks
- The signs of use and age are very minor and do not detract from the overall appearance
- Small bubble on the offside rear arch
- Small scratch on the top of the bumper near the centre
- Chip on offside front arch and appears to be a small bubble of corrosion at the base by the sill
- Small number of stone chips on the front bumper and bonnet
- Scratches below the central hood anchor point on the back of the car
- Small scuff on the passenger side mirror
- Chromework is lightly tarnished in places including the door handles
The Mechanics
- 3,947cc 185bhp Rover V8 engine
- Rover 5spd manual gearbox
- The vendor states that the car has full service history
- Retrofitted with EZ power steering system
- New steering rack fitted
- New seatbelt restraints
- New track rod ends
- Windscreen surround replaced by previous owner
Summary
The MG RV8 has a special place in the firm’s history as the car that made the MGF possible. Less than 2,000 were built but its combination of classic styling, V8 urge, allegiance to the brand and luxurious trim meant they sold out quickly, convincing Rover to build the new car.
This RV8 comes to us from its long term owner and has clearly been cared for. It is a great opportunity to buy one of the last in a long line of V8-equipped British sports cars.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
