1995 MG RV8 Roadster
Registration no. M900MGR
Chassis no. SARRAWBMBMG001242
Engine no. UEA48A/01152-A

In 1992, 12 years after the last MG sports car had rolled off the Abingdon production lines, Austin-Rover made the inspired decision to revive this most charismatic of British marques by introducing an entirely new model - the MG RV8. The success of the Heritage MGB replacement bodyshell had demonstrated the continuing popularity of that car, so the decision was taken to base the new model on MG's most successful sports car, suitably re-engineered for the 1990s. The MG RV8 was announced at the 1992 Motor Show, its launch being timed to coincide with the MGB's 30th anniversary. Although recognisably related to its distinguished forebear, the RV8 was wider, lower and sleeker, featuring fully integrated body-coloured bumpers in the modern idiom. Beneath the power-bulged bonnet there was the latest 3.9-litre version of the Rover V8 engine, a modern derivative of that used to power the MGB V8 back in the 1970s, mated to a Rover LT77 five-speed manual gearbox. With a maximum power output of 188bhp and capable of a top speed of 135mph, the RV8 was the most powerful MG ever at the time of its launch. The UK price on introduction was £26,500. Only 1,983 MG RV8s were built in total, around 75% of which were exported to Japan with the remainder sold new in the UK. There was no left-hand drive version.

Carrying the apt registration number 'M900 MGR', this example was imported from Japan in 2002 by HS Imports and has had one owner in Japan and three in the UK. Noteworthy features include wheelarch flares (from new), convertible hood, tonneau cover, stainless steel boot rack, and an 'MPH' speedometer. The car comes with full service history from new, 18 stamps in total, the Japanese section having been translated, and has covered 66,700 miles to date, 36,566 miles (48,729 kilometres) in Japan. This RV8 has always been kept garaged and said to drive very well, having benefited from considerable expenditure on maintaining it in top condition. Finished in pearlescent Woodcote Green with Stone leather interior, the car comes complete with all book packs, BMIHT Certificate, V5C document, MoT to May 2016 and MG Rover Group British National Type Approval Certificate.