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. 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 and is probably the closest to factory original condition currently available.
This particular MG RV8 was first registered in Japan on 20th May 1997. It's had one mature Japanese owner from new was garaged and stored under a fitted cover for the last 10 years (documented), which has preserved it in the as new condition you'll see in the pictures shown on our website's stock information. Make no mistake - this is an absolute collector's gem inclusive of all original optional extras - unused. In 10 years of purchasing top quality low mileage RV8's in Japan for discerning buyers in UK we haven't found a lower mileage example - ever. Note this car's been stored indoors under a tailored cover for the last 10 years, only started and moved from time to time, with fresh fuel - but not road driven.
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 includes an OEM Japan market spec 6-CD changer in the boot.
Underside condition: No oil leaks, no rust whatsoever - Condition is superb. We noted this car has been modified with Spax (Red) shock absorbers, which give 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 black 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 just one pin dent on the driver's rear quarter panel which will be professionally removed as part of our UK preparation.There are some minor cracks on the veneer from age (Notably on the glove box door), 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.During the first three years of use in Japan, some water became trapped between the windscreen seal and frame, which caused 2 spots of surface rust to appear on the interior corners of the frame. To be able to present the car perfectly - we have replaced the entire screen frame with a new (rust free) item - whilst doing so, we also sealed the rubber with silicone grease to avoid water being trapped the problem re-occuring. From comprehensive pictures - you can tell in the 13 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 worn leather, damaged mohair hood or back window, de-laminating wood veneers, underside rust, damaged bodywork, etc RV8 affect this car. The only wear to the interior is the shift knob, which clearly shows it's original and had normal use. 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 £15,995 d with a deposit of £1,500 for prompt shipping. Please 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.