The MG RV8 requires little introduction to classic MG enthusiasts as the last and best of the breed, produced in limited numbers between the end of 1994 till 1997. Only around 300 were officially sold in UK with most of production imported to Japan. Many of these have since been re-imported to the UK, or gone on to live in Australia and there are only a scant few remaining. Unfortunately the majority haven't been well looked after - and so the norm is to see examples with peeling veneers, poor quality paintwork, rust from being sat outside for 15 years (Windscreen frames are especially prone to rot and roofs often leak as they age - leading to rotting of the floor). This example has absolutely zero corrosion throughout as it's always been stored indoors and is without doubt the closest to factory original condition currently available. To be completely frank when we bought this recently for stock, our intention was to keep it for ourselves as we know it will appreciate considerably in future and it's a pleasure to drive on sunny days with the top down, but we also know realistically we can't use it as much as it deserves so this is why it's up for sale! Even Clive Wheatley knows of this car and what our intentions had been of not selling.
This particular MG RV8 was first registered in Japan in November 1996. It's had one mature evidently knowledgeable Japanese owner from new who garaged it under a dust cover. The car came out on occasional weekends when there was nice weather and was always well cared for. Make no mistake - this is an absolute collector's gem inclusive of all original optional extras - unused. In nearly 15 years of purchasing top quality low mileage RV8's in Japan for discerning buyers in UK we haven't found a better preserved example. This RV8 has been driven to keep it in top health, so everything still works as it should. Even the aircon is still blowing ice cold.
Specification: The RV8 carries Rover's venerable 3946 cc aluminium alloy V8 with five main bearing crankshaft Hydraulic tappets. Using electronic fuel injection it produces 190 bhp @ 4750 RPM 318 Nm @ 3200 RPM and power is fed to the rear wheels via an LT 77 five speed manual transmission torque bias differential. . Official factory performance figures quoted a 135 mph top speed and 0-60 in 5.9secs.Front suspension: Independant, double wishbone, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers with sway bars.Rear suspension: Live axle with twin taper lear [sic], half elliptic springs and telescopic shock absorbers; twin lower torque control arms with sway bar. Wheels: 15 * 6J original alloy wheels with 205/65 VR 15 tyres. Brakes are 270 mm ventilated disc brakes front, 9 inch drums rear. Curb weight: 1280 kgInterior comforts include: Full cream leather, deep pile carpet, fitted mats, walnut veneer dashboard and door caps, air conditioning, VDO instrumentation, soft top (half) cover, open (Full) tonneau cover, original audio system etc. Note the original tool kit is unused and complete as is the original spare wheel. Original MG Audio has been replaced with an in dash CD player.
Underside condition: No oil leaks, no rust whatsoever - Condition is superb. We noted this car has been modified with after market shock absorbers at the rear. In test driving it gave a noticably better ride than the standard originals. Ride height remains unchanged. Comprehensive condition Report: A complete history gives proof of this RV8's genuinely very low mileage. As pictures clearly show, condition of this car is outstanding. Paintwork is very shiny so reflective we had difficulty taking pictures that show the car to be green metallic all over (Some pictures make the paint work look dark as a result). The roof is in excellent original condition with no fading or cracking to the plastic rear window (A sign it's not been stored outside). The cream leather and matching carpets are the best condition we've come across yet. Note the sill trims aren't even scratched!All paint work is original and has been polished / protected regularly. We found a small scratch that had been carefully touched in on the centre of the leading edge of the bonnet. One of the headlamp cowns (n/s) has 3 tiny stone chips. There are some minor cracks on the veneer from age (around the hifi), but nothing that requires renewal or repair - just natural ageing. These minor cracks are barely visible (See detailed pictures). Note this has been a non smoker's car since new.From comprehensive pictures - you can tell in the 16 years this car was with it's one keeper from new - it was loved and properly cared for. This car deserves to be kept as a collector's piece for concours competition entry so it would NOT depreciate over time, only appreciate - as one of the finest examples left in existence. NONE of the usual faults of neglect such as torn leather, damaged mohair hood or back window, de-laminating wood veneers, underside rust, damaged bodywork, etc RV8 affect this car. Overall this RV8's in beautifully preserved condition throughout, having been garaged covered throughout it's life to date. This RV8 is currently stored indoors in Japan and is available for prompt shipping - worldwide (Ask about our FOB package). For UK, our on the road package includes: Full UK conversion and preparation, new MOT, 6 Month's road tax and a comprehensive 12 month warranty complete with all accompanying paperwork pertaining to the car's history.
When new 15 years ago - price was £26,000 in UK. These RV8's are now fast appreciating assets - being sought after by collectors, when in well preserved condition. This unique and totally A1 example car is available at £18,995 d with a deposit of £2,000 for prompt shipping. contact us for further information or to reserve this unique RV8. Don't delay - as once this car's gone it's unlikely we'll be able to locate another of this calibre again.
Newera Imports - Established 1998. The only UK Import company with it's own genuine buyers in Japan. Premier source of the best hand picked specialist cars from Japan. As recommended by UK Import magazines, car clubs and enthusiast owners.