Lot details Registration No: M817SUX Chassis No: SARRAWB17BMG001202 Mot Expiry: May 2008
Launched at the 1992 Birmingham Motor Show, the RV8 signalled MG's return to the open sports car market. Just as the Cobra grew out of the unprepossessing AC Ace, so the RV8 evolved from the immortal MGB Roadster (hence the car's 'Project Adder' development code). Built around a thoroughly re-engineered and neatly restyled version of its predecessor's monocoque bodyshell, it was powered by a 3948cc V8 engine that developed some 190bhp and 318Nm of torque. Said to be capable of 135mph and 0-60mph in 5.9 seconds, the adoption of telescopic shock absorbers and anti-roll bars all round brought a notable improvement in handling. Trimmed to a high standard, its inviting interior boasted leather upholstery and rich wood veneers. With the vast majority of the limited production run (just 1,983 are thought to have been made) going to a retro hungry Japan, RV8s remain a rare sight on British roads.
Finished in Woodcote Green with cream leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, five-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Reportedly "exported to Japan in 1995 and re-imported to the UK in 2003", 'M817 SUX' boasts an impressive specification including "a Moto-Lita wood steering wheel, wooden gearknob, tool kit, alarm / immobiliser, stainless steel luggage rack, radio / cassette player, air-conditioning and full / half tonneaus". Suffering odometer failure at an indicated 25,700 miles, the RV8 is believed but not warranted to have covered some 26,000 miles from new (though, the replacement unit shows just 115 or so). Said to have been "in store since February 2005" due to a lack of domestic garaging, this appealing MG is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until May 2008 and road tax valid until December 2007.
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