Lot 42: MG RV8

At its debut in 1992, the RV8 was hailed an instant classic and despite the obvious MG B ancestry in its styling, it was an entirely new car and proved beyond doubt that the spirit of the famous Octagon was still very much alive and there was demand for an MG sports car despite an absence of some twelve years.  By the time production ceased, 2000 examples had been built with 75% going to Japan where they were eagerly received.  The 3.9-litre Rover V8 engine produced 190bhp giving exceptional torque and a 0-60 acceleration time of just 5.9 seconds together with a top speed in excess of 135mph.  Today the RV8 is highly sought after as a modern classic and catered for by both the major MG clubs. This example, in Woodcote green with beige interior trim, has had just one registered owner, having been purchased by him from Rover Japan in April 1998.  The car was shipped back to the UK in August 2001 with the speedometer at that time reading 24,810 kms (15,506 miles).  In June 2004, following a failure of the speedometer, a replacement was fitted and the total, at time of writing, stands at 22,711 miles, this being certified with receipts supplied and comprehensive history.  Exceptionally well presented with little doubt that this has been lovingly cared for, this RV8 is reported to have no faults and to drive superbly and has benefited from the fitment of a replacement hood and stainless steel exhaust system.  The tyres have also been renewed, these being Yokohama items. Documentation includes the original folder along with RV8 workshop notes, all previous MOT certificates since 2001, V5 registration document, import document and current MOT certificate valid until October 2007