Highlights
- MOT valid until August 2024 with no advisories
- Spent the first nine years of its life on Japan’s unsalted roads
- A very original and well presented example
- Substantial history file with invoices, past MOT certificates, tax discs and import documentation
- The vendor reports that it runs and drives impeccably
- Recent expenditure on a number of consumable mechanical components
The Appeal
Those who sought to enhance their MGB’s performance in period would often fit Rover V8 engines and this transformed these nippy little sports cars into quite formidable compact GTs. When in later years British Motor Heritage were successful in resuming production of MGB bodies, they decided to bring its performance up to date by factory fitting the engine enthusiasts had been installing on their driveways for years. It was unveiled to an adoring crowd at the 1993 Tokyo Motor Show and subsequently more were sold in Japan than anywhere else.
Here we have one such example which made its way to Britain in 2004. Having spent its early life on Japan’s salt-free roads, it arrived in a great state of preservation and we’re pleased to report it has been very well cared for ever since. Accompanied by a substantial history file, recently subject to a judicious mechanical refresh and reportedly driving very well, this is a great example of this sought-after modern classic.
The History and Paperwork
- Current MOT valid until August 2024
- Originally supplied by New Empire Motors Inc. Meguro Tokyo Japan
- Imported to the UK in 2004 and first registered in April of that year
- Three previous UK owners
- Acquired by the vendor in 2010
- Substantial history file in accompanying box file
- Subject to a recent mechanical refresh with several consumable components renewed
- Selection of invoices for parts and servicing
- Old MOT certificates, registration paperwork, import documents and tax discs
- Original japanese book pack
- The original KPH speedometer was changed upon arrival to the UK
- The present MPH odometer reads 19,379 miles and the KPH odometer (which still accompanies the car) reads 32,727 kilometres (20,337 miles)
- The total indicated mileage is therefore 39,716 miles
The Interior
- Original, unrestored and well preserved
- Cream leather upholstery with only light wear
- Smart carpeting throughout
- Highly figured dashboard veneer in really nice order
- DIN Sony Stereo complete with removal keys and boot mounted CD changer
- All the VDO instruments present well
- We understand all the switchgear to be in good working order
- MG branded wind deflector
- Some wear to the seal on upper windscreen seal, A new replacement part is provided
- As with most RV8's the A/C has been removed, this part is present and will be supplied with the vehicle
- Full-size spare alloy wheel present
The Exterior
- Distinctive green paintwork in fantastic condition for its age
- Straight bodywork devoid of obvious damage or corrosion
- Really smart underside, with no signs of excessive corrosion
- Full and half tonneau covers in great shape
- Soft top folding roof working well and in great shape, with an unclouded rear window
- Electrically operated mirrors reportedly in full working order
- Diamond-cut alloy wheels shod with Goodyear Efficient Grip Tyres
- No signs of kerbing to the alloys
The Mechanics
- 3940 cc Rover V8
- Five-speed Rover manual gearbox
- Reportedly running and driving exactly as it should with no known faults
The vendor informs that the following components work has been completed:
- Power steering fitted with new rack
- New clutch fitted - with new master and slave cylinders
- New engine mounts
- Gas adjustable shock absorbers fitted
- New alternator
- New fuel pump
- Rear brakes relined
Summary
The MG RV8 remains a very desirable sports car and it’s easy to see why. With classic styling, V8 power and a convertible roof, it’s a very endearing package. For those seeking a great example with well documented history, this is the one you’ve been looking for.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
