MG RV8 (1992-95)

HISTORY
The MGB was the first mass-market British sports car with full monocoque construction but its lack of torsional rigidity forced MG to restrict the original MGB with Rover V8 power to the fixed roof MGB GT. The revived RV8 combined the original 1960s open monocoque with cleverly tweaked body panels and skirts hiding the raised ride height of rubber bumper models with a 3.9-litre Range Rover V8 and Rover five-speed manual with predictable results. Soft suspension, body slop and raised centre of gravity drew stern criticism when new, even from the Brits and the unleaded V8 was a better mud-plugger than sports car engine. Cabin and exterior helped sell 2000 examples, most of which went to Japan. Never sold new here, low mileage imports are hitting the used market as a smooth half-priced boulevard alternative to a restored big Healey or next step above an original MGB.

PRICES
Used prices reflect UK and Japanese markets for a price point of $40,000 give or take $5,000 providing it has documented local compliance and depending on who is selling or about half what it would have cost if sold new here

CHECK IT OUT:

Body
Most examples come from Japan. Pick them by their extra Rover badges and bumper mounted air-conditioning ducts instead of fog lights which also reflect local priorities.

Original ornate wheels are hard to clean and prone to corrosion under their protective coating. If you can’t source replacements, they will require refinishing. Future value will depend on originality so haggle hard if they are missing.

Lavish wood dash and door trim is not suited to humidity and heat here or in Japan and could already be crazed. Removing then replacing all the dials at exactly the right angles along with switches and air-conditioning ducting is seriously fiddly after you find a Rolls Royce specialist qualified to micro-sand the timber and recoat it with a UV proof coating.

Leather trim if not regularly nourished may already be ruined and can cost up to $2,000 to replace. Primitive 1960s hood is a challenge to erect and drop and easily damaged by its tubular frame for a $5000 replacement bill for the genuine item.

Most came in a green that was not quite British Racing Green, hence the rarer blue or red fetches a premium but condition is always the clincher. Unusual blend of 1960s fuel cap, scuttle vent, bootlid and door handles with Porsche-style headlights and moulded bumpers works but higher windscreen frame was fabricated out of painted hollow steel, not the original alloy. Although stronger, it can rust from the inside and is costly to replace and rust proof.

Mechanical
Old MGB suspension was upgraded with tubular dampers and rear anti-tramp rods but steering rack bushes, leaf springs, suspension uprights and dampers must be checked as suspension was marginal when new. It also needs regular greasing through nipples that must be kept unblocked. Check for rattles and excessive scuttle shake over a choppy surface.

Rover V8 was bulletproof by the 3.9 version but susceptible to valve train, cylinder head and radiator problems if it doesn't get quality oil and coolant changes as specified. Certain manufacturing problems showed up in the Range Rover V8 during this period so check thoroughly even if the kms are low.