Lot details

Year: 1995
Make: MG
Model: RV8
Registration: M152 TAB
Chassis No: SARRAWBMBMG001541
Engine No: tbc
Mileage: 35,645
•: In current ownership for 15 years
•: Record of maintenance since 4,500 miles
•: Excellent example

The MG RV8 was a hugely important step in the 1990's rebirth of MG Cars after more than a decade of only producing saloons and hatchbacks. Since Abingdon's closure in 1980, MG had been reserved for the Metro, Maestro and Montego and, although these cars were worthy, what enthusiasts really wanted was a new MG roadster. In creating the RV8, Rover very cleverly used a combination of off-the-shelf parts, such as Range Rover's V8 engine and British Motor Heritage's MGB bodyshell. So, in this re-incarnation of the MGB, the rubber bumper specification body was taken and modified to accept a new set of beautifully curvaceous outer panels. The 3.9-litre Range Rover EFi V8 engine developed 185bhp and gave the RV8 enough power to crack six seconds for the 0-60mph run. A five-speed LT77 gearbox, derived from the Rover SD1 was used along with a new Salisbury axle. Very significant modifications were made to the suspension and brakes to bring the car up to date. The interior featured leather and burr elm facia and door cappings. Japan proved to be a successful market during the recession of the 1990's and, of the 1,983 units MG RV8's manufactured, 1,581 were sold out there, although many have subsequently come back home to the UK.

This is one such car; returning from Japan in 2004. The mileage on its arrival to the UK is unknown, but the first online MoT record from 2006 shows it had covered only 1,768 miles and when our vendor purchased the car in 2009, it had covered just 4,500. Our vendor has thoroughly enjoyed the car during his ownership, taking it to local car shows and says it holds many happy memories for him and his wife, but it is now seeing less frequent use and he feels it is time for someone else to enjoy his MG. The car is in excellent condition, the Woodcote green coachwork gleams and the tan interior shows little sign of ageing. A service booklet was started in 2009 and shows seven services since then, the most recent being in 2022, just 2,000 miles ago. Recent works include a new radiator and new exhaust. The car is supplied to auction with a V5C registration document, MoT test certificate valid until August 1st 2025, a history file, full tonneau cover, miscellaneous spares and owners booklets. Consigned by Fraser Smith