Lot details
Registration No: L377LPY
Chassis No: SARRAWBMBMG000829
Mot Expiry: Oct 2019

- 1 of just 258 painted in Oxford Blue pearlescent (from a total production run of 1,982 cars)

- Believed but not warranted to have covered some 36,000 miles from new

- Supplied new to Japan with air-con and came back to the UK via Hong Kong

- New fuel tank, sender and gauge recently plus fresh tyres. Original book pack and tool roll

Launched at the 1992 Birmingham Motor Show, the RV8 signalled MG's return to the open sports car market. Just as the Cobra grew out of the less muscular AC Ace, so the RV8 evolved from the immortal MGB Roadster (hence the car's 'Project Adder' development code). Built around a thoroughly re-engineered and neatly restyled version of its predecessor's monocoque bodyshell, it was powered by a 3948cc V8 engine that developed some 190bhp and 318Nm of torque. Said to be capable of 135mph and 0-60mph in 5.9 seconds, the adoption of telescopic shock absorbers and anti-roll bars all round brought a notable improvement in handling. Trimmed to a high standard, its inviting interior boasted leather upholstery and rich wood veneers.

Supplied new to Japan and thus benefiting from air-conditioning, this rare Oxford Blue example - 1 of just 258 made - was subsequently acquired by an expat living in Hong Kong who later brought it back with him to the UK. Pleasingly retaining its original owner's wallet, service and handbooks etc, the two-seater is believed to have covered around 36,000 miles from new. Purchased by the vendor from the proprietor of a very well-known MG parts supplier whose son-in-law owned it, the RV8 had effectively been dry stored since 2011. The subject of much recent recommissioning work, `L377 LPY' boasts a new fuel tank, sender and gauge, replacement CAT, fresh tyres all round, new fan shroud, new door cappings and overmats etc. Described by the seller as being in `very good' (paintwork, interior trim) or `excellent' (bodywork, engine, electrical equipment, gearbox) condition, this desirably hued MG is offered for sale with RV8 Workshop Notes DVD, Rover RV8 Technical Reveal Video, scarce original RV8 keyfob, Japan / Hong Kong registration details, partially complete tool roll, hood cover / bag, spare door mirror / indicator lights and MOT certificate current until October 2019.