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 a Quaife 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.
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RV8
facts
Produced: 1992 to 1995
Bodywork: Two door open sports roadster.
Engine: Rover aluminium alloy fuel injected V8 3,946cc
with 190bhp using an electronic engine management system.
0-60 mph: 6.9 secs
Top speed: 136 mph
Fuel consumption: 24-30 mpg
OK for unleaded? Yes original heads are OK.
Production: Original Factory production figure is 2,000
with only 399 cars built to "UK spec" delivered to
the UK and Mainland Europe markets, together with the pre-production
RV8s. Some 1,582 RV8s were exported to Japan (built to "Japan
spec" which includes aircon) of which over 79% were finished
in Woodcote Green.
Specification: Servo assisted brakes (discs at the front
and drums at the back), distinctive light alloy wheels, tinted
glass, reclining seats covered in Connolly leather, two speed
wipers and heater as standard, with a five speed LT77S gearbox,
later changed to an R380 at VIN 0640, and a Quaife differential
- an automatic torque bias (ATB) type, significantly different
from normal types of limited slip differentials.
Number of cars still existing: Estimated at around 1,950
with many exported from Japan over the last 15 years to the
UK as reimports and a substantial number to Australia, New Zealand
and Mainland Europe. So the estimated UK stock is around 900
cars.
Spares availability: Very good, particularly from the
two leading UK based specialist RV8 spares providers and from
another in Australia.
Garage fit? L 13ft 2" (4.010m) x W 5ft 6½"
(1.694m) x H 4ft 4" (1.320m).
Prices
Woodcote Green: £7,500 to £14,000
Other colours: £9,000 to £15,750
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