1974 MG B GT V8
Home market, factory V8 example

Registration No: KVY 808N
Chassis No: G-D2D1/1761-G
MOT: September 2025

• One of just 2,591 genuine factory V8s manufactured
• A late chrome bumper, home-market, right-hand drive example
• Extensive restoration completed in the late 1990s by specialist Bromsgrove MG Centre with some £14,000 expenditure
• Accompanied by history file including the original Passport to Service

A more powerful alternative to the MG B came in 1973 with the introduction of the B V8 - a GT-only variant powered by the ubiquitous 3528cc Rover V8 unit. Though inspired by the conversions carried out by independent tuner Ken Costello, the factory V8 cars were somewhat less tuned, producing 137bhp rather than 150bhp – the output was nevertheless sufficient for a sprightly 0-60mph time of around eight seconds and a top speed of 125mph. As the all-alloy Rover engine was lighter than the cast-iron BMC unit, no significant changes were required to the rest of the car. Production of the V8 was curtailed in 1976 (reputedly over BLMC's concern it would affect sales of other products - in particular, the dearer, less powerful Triumph Stag) after some 2,591 had been built.

Sold to its first owner on the 7^th June 1975, this late chrome bumper V8 is a home market example that was supplied new via Kennings Ltd. of Wetherby. One of just 2,591 genuine factory V8s manufactured, it is finished in Black paintwork with a bespoke Cream leather interior upholstery with Black piping, and Black carpeting. Featuring the original V8 Dunlop wheels which have recently been shod with fresh Avon tyres, ‘KVY 808N’ has had just two long-term ownerships across the last four decades (1984-2013 and 2013-2024). During the first of these ownership periods, the V8 was entrusted to renowned marque specialist Bromsgrove MG Centre for an extensive restoration.

Fully restored by them between 1996 and 1998, there are invoices on file relating to some £14,000 worth of related expenditure. Purchased by the current registered ownership from an MG specialist for some £25,000, the V8 is offered with a history file that contains the original stamped Passport to Service; MOT certificates dating back to 1981; the aforementioned restoration invoices; tax discs; original handbook and workshop manuals; sales brochures; and a current V5C. Starting readily and running and driving well for the recent photography session, ‘KVY 808N’ is a desirable overdrive example that still presents very well!

For more information, please contact:
Paul Cheetham
paul.cheetham@handh.co.uk
07538 667452