Lot 31: MG RV8

As soon as it was introduced in 1992, the RV8 was hailed an instant classic and, despite the obvious MGB ancestry evident in its styling, it was, in fact, an entirely new car and proved beyond doubt that the spirit of the famous octagon was still very much alive and there was a demand for an MG sports car despite an absence of some twelve years. Some 75% of production was destined for Japan and in total 2,000 examples were built by the time the model had ceased in 1997. The 3.9-litre Rover V8 engine produced 190bhp giving exceptional torque and enabled the RV8 to accelerate from 0-60 in just 5.9 seconds and on to a top speed in excess of 135mph. Today, the RV8 is highly sought after as a modern classic and is catered for by both the major MG clubs.This example, smartly finished in Woodcote Green with beige leather trim, dates from 1994 and was imported from Japan last year by the vendor. It has covered, at time of writing, just 23,916 kms (14,863 miles) and is understood to be in a condition entirely commensurate with this low recorded mileage. Currently representing extremely good value, the RV8 offers a fine combination of performance, style and a high level of equipment.