1993 MG RV8, genuine low mileage example with only 23,000 miles.
T
he 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 the Range Rover's V8 engine and British Motor Heritage 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 1983 MG RV8's made, 1581 were sold out there, although many (including this one) have subsequently come back home to the UK.
