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MG
RV8 - destined to be a classic from its launch Introduced to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the MGB, the RV8 was destined to become a classic from its launch at the 1992 British International Motor Show. The new MG - codenamed ADDER - was developed by the Special Products team based at Gaydon and based on the MGB Heritage bodyshell with subtle bodywork modifications and a luxurious interior. Under the bonnet the RV8 was powered by a 3.9 litre V8 with a modern engine management system and Lucas injection engine delivering 190bhp at 4,750rpm through a five speed gearbox and limited slip differential. Telescopic dampers replaced the original lever arm units but the faithfull live axle remained. The new model has a lower, sleeker appearance through a clever combination of suspension and styling changes whilst still maintaining the unmistakable character of the classic MGB.  White Gold 0030 on the Rover stand following the launch of the RV8 (Photo: MG Rover)  Woodcote Green 0810 seen at a V8 Gathering at Hazeley Heath in August 2002. This reimported Japanese spec car is owned by Graham Bartholomew in Berkshire - note the vents adjacent to the indicators which supply air to the air-conditioning system. (Photo: Victor Smith)  RV8 cockpit is luxurious with leather upholstery and an elm burr veneer dashboard (above) and door trims and cappings (below).  At first sight the RV8 appears simply a restyled MGB but under the bonnet it is a very modern car with a sophisticated electronic engine management system. To carry out routine engine tuning it is necessary to connect an electronic diagnostic package available to MG Dealers called Rover Testbook or T4. This limits the maintenance the DIY enthusiast is able to carry out without this sophisticated equipment.  The RV8s produced for the UK market did not have air-conditioning as standard and in place of the air vents for the AC system adjacent to the orange indicator lights, spot lights were fitted. (see below).  Caribbean Blue 0437 seen at a V8 Gathering at the Shoulder of Mutton on Hazeley Heath in August 2002. This good looking RV8 is owned by Bill Ratcliffe from Sussex. (Photo: Victor Smith)  Japanese specification RV8s have the air-conditioning equipment in the passenger legwell, reducing the legroom quite considerably. Many UK members remove the AC equipment on acquiring a reimported RV8. The AC equipment can be seen below. (Photos: John Barnes) 
As more and more of these cars reach enthusiasts' hands, there is a much greater interest from owners in understanding the model's maintenance and servicing requirements and learning from the experience of fellow members. The V8 Register of the MG Car Club recognised this need and has developed a very successful series of RV8 Workshop Notes contributed by its members. This series is now recognised as the leading source for RV8 maintenance tips and spares information. Copies are available to members in the UK. For membership of the V8 Register and copies of the notes, contact the V8 Registrar, Victor Smith on 0208 392 9434 or at victorsmith((atat))v8register.net What to pay for an MG RV8? For an article on RV8 prices, click What to pay for an RV8.  Oxford Blue 1595 seen here in Tokyo, owned by Lance Bennett. (Photo: Lance Bennett) |
MG
RV8 Profile
This note is part of the Classic Power Profiles from the V8 Register -
the leading specialist group for MGV8 enthusiasts. The V8 Register is part of
the MG Car Club. Buying an RV8 Guide to the model and what to look for. More RV8 reviews in motoring magazines RV8 reviews RV8s for Sale RV8s have sold very promptly on this webpage RV8s for Sale RV8
Talk A group of V8 enthusiasts listened to John Yea and David Bishop relate what had inspired the RV8 development team to do what was an extraordinary low budget project - creating a modern classic sportscar to keep the name of MG alive as a modern brand. It was fascinating tale. Peter Buckles chaired the event and commented "projects like that just don't happen like that any more". The availability of MGB bodies from the BMH Body Plant and fuel injected V8 engines clearly were the essential inputs but it needed enthusiasm and imagination to make it happen. Many of our V8 enthusiasts contributed to the project including Roger Parker, the late Trevor Taylor, Ron Gammons and of course Peter Buckles and his team at the leading specialist parts supplier, Moss Europe. John Yea said "I don't think a retro type car built in an old body will be seen again - manufacturers don't keep old tooling any more - it's just binned, gone for ever!" He related how tracing the tooling for the RV8 project was a key part of their work. Timing too was a factor for vehicle conformity - another six months or so and the RV8 might not have met the increased "drive by" noise limits - it was that close! You can get a copy of the recording of this talk, give in June 2003 as part of the V8 25th Anniversary events. The recording is available on CD or DVD. RV8 Talk RV8 price guide RV8 colours RV8 VIN numbers RV8 production table Reimporting an RV8 Copyright reserved by the V8 Register of the MG Car Club, PO Box 888, London SW14 7YT
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