1996 MG RV8

Highlights

• B-based roadster with a 187 hp V8
• Sold new in Japan, reimported to the UK
• Luxurious leather and burr veneer interior
• Plenty of servicing invoices
• Mohair hood fitted

Overview

While MG’s original roadster — the B — found a ready market all over the world, especially in the US, its revived successor — the RV8 — sold remarkably well in Japan. This might seem strange given the strong success of Mazda’s MX-5 when the RV8 was launched in 1992, but for some reason over three quarters of all RV8 sales were in Japan.

This particular car, like many others, has since been brought back from Japan to the country where it was built. It has been back in Britain since 2002, and appears to have been well looked after. The paintwork retains its metallic shine, the roof has been replaced with a smart mohair one, and the interior veneers have also been replaced.

And one thing the RV8 has that the original B didn’t is a 3.9-litre V8 engine putting out 187 hp. This gives it more modern performance, along with its wider track, front suspension changes, and the more sculpted body panels.

There’s a lot to be said for the original, but the thoroughly upgraded RV8 is a whole different beast. It politely doffs its cap to its predecessor as it mashes its right foot into the carpet, and tears off into the sunset.

History and documentation

• Declared manufactured in 1996
• Originally exported to Japan
• Reimported to the UK and registered 24 Jun 2002
• Original Owner’s Handbook on file
• MG RV8 Repair Manual included
• Collection of invoices for parts and servicing, and old MOT certificates
• Two sets of keys
• Three immobiliser remote fobs
• Current MOT expires 3 May 2025
• V5 present in owner’s name
• Four former keepers
• Owned by the present keeper since Aug 2015
• HPI clear

Interior

• The interior of this RV8 combines sporting proportions with a few touches of luxury
• Beige leather upholstery throughout
• The leather appears to be in good condition for its age, with some light signs of wear
• Seats fold forwards to reveal extra storage
• The matching carpets are clean and presentable
• Ruched leather door cards
• The dashboard and door cappings have reportedly been replaced at some point since the car was reimported as the originals were prone to cracking on sea journeys
• These veneers remain highly polished and in good condition
• Gear knob replaced to match the dashboard veneers — the original knob remains with the car
• Air conditioning system removed to increase legroom; the seller will include the air conditioning unit in the sale
• Sony stereo with aux and USB connectivity
• There is a battery isolator fitted and a wired connector for a CTEK trickle charger, though a charger will need to be purchased separately
• To the rear, the boot is fully carpeted
• Full size spare wheel

Exterior

• The shape of the classic British roadster is unashamedly on display throughout
• Harking back to the original MGB, the RV8 adds a few more modern twists, without going too far
• The body panels of this particular car look to be in good condition, with no significant dents or repairs reported
• The vendor only highlights one small dent just below the bootlid
• Woodcote Green paint looks to be very well presented, with its deep metallic shimmer still present
• Minilite wheels in very good condition — the original wheels are also included
• The hood fabric has been replaced with mohair which is very smart, with no obvious signs of wear, stains, or fading that we could see
• The seller informs us that prior to 2009 the original windscreen surround was removed and a carbon fibre replacement added
• Luggage rack fitted to the bootlid
• Chrome lockable filler cap
• All the lamp lenses look clear and bright
• Underneath, body panels look well preserved
• There is a little surface corrosion on some of the suspension components, as usual

Mechanical

• 3,940 cc Rover V8 engine
• 187 hp is sent to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox
• In May 2023 the nearside engine mount was replaced and the engine oil and filter were changed
• In April 2019 the water pump, coolant, and brake pressure relief valve were all replaced, along with an oil and filter change
• In August 2015 the exhaust was replaced with a stainless steel system
• In April 2015 many of the car’s suspension bushes were replaced
• The previous owner reportedly fitted adjustable shock absorbers
• The vendor informs us that the engine runs smoothly, with strong acceleration and good performance.
• The MOT notes a minor oil leak, and the seller tells us that a small amount of coolant needs to be added every few months, but that there is no leakage when the engine is running
• This car has been used for long-distance touring in Europe and Scotland, and is the ideal choice for day trips and weekends away

Summary

The MG RV8 fulfils a niche: it’s the ‘missing link’ between the classic British sports car, and its modern equivalent. It remains indefinably desirable, combining excellent styling, a luxurious interior, and a powerful V8 engine. And this particular example is well presented throughout, with its metallic paintwork, new roof, smart veneers, and recent servicing. What more could you want?

To arrange a viewing, please request this in the Q&A section. You can click through to the seller's profile and use the 'Email Me' function to arrange a viewing privately. This seller is located in Blackpool, Lancashire.