1993 MG RV8

The result of this eastern focus meant that just 307 MGR V8s were built specifically for the UK market. This fine example is one of those 307 as well as being a member of a subset of 139 finished in the perennially popular British Racing Green. This MG was supplied new by dealers Wrights of Lincoln to its lucky first owner in November 1993.

Since then this fine looking example has been enjoyed by a series of owners with current keeper, Keith, acquiring it in September 2021. At that stage the R V8 had only covered a remarkably modest 33,000 miles. On the day of our shoot the VDO odometer was sitting at 34,766 miles underscoring the continued light and empathetic use enjoyed by this MG.

The overall condition of this example appears impressive indeed. The R V8 has been garaged throughout its life and, reportedly, only used in clement meteorological conditions – which would certainly explain the light use! In current ownership transformative power steering has been fitted as has a stainless steel exhaust system with accompanying catalytic convertor.
 

Despite the beefier wings, Bosch Porsche 911 headlamps and bespoke rear clusters, the MGR V8 retains plenty of MGB DNA giving it an appealing resto-mod look and demeanour. This example is finished in Metallic British Racing Green which accounted for 45% of the UK specified cohort of cars. The front and rear aspects wear large bumper covers with recesses housing fog lamps at the rear and indicators and brake ventilation ducts at the front. Both paintwork and bodywork look to be in fine order with panel gaps appearing tight and symmetrical throughout.

The black fabric hood looks to be in a great, original condition with no rips, tears or holes noted. The plexiglass rear window is in a fine condition with no fogging, cracking or heavy folds noted. This zips open, when required, to provide useful additional ventilation. This whole ensemble seems to fit admirably tightly, too. It is noted that full and half tonneau covers are also present and included. Cabin glass and light lenses all appear clear, clean and original. 

The MGR V8 rolls on the correct 30-stud, split rim, 15x6J cast alloy wheels. These feature a mock, single spinner centre cap and appear to be in an excellent condition all round. A matching set of Michelin radial type tyres are fitted. These are in the factory specified 205/65 configuration and appear to retain a good level of tread throughout. These appear to be date stramped from 2012.
 

The R V8 design team seemed to work hard to position the MGR as an upmarket and significantly enhanced interpretation of the MGB. This is particularly evident in the cabin where upmarket materials were used including ruched Connolly leather and smart wooden veneers.

The cabin of our car is, certainly, no exception. The data plate lists the trim code as “SMJ” which equates to Stone Beige leather. The wood elements of the dash and door cappings are finished in Elm Burr veneer. The condition of the seats and leather portions of the dashboard present very well with no major imperfections noted. Carpets also appear to be very good in terms of wear and overall condition and are protected by MG branded protective carpet mats. The door cards appear highly original and in fine fettle right down to the original, colour coded speaker covers.

The VDO, white on black gauge set is present and correct. The original MGR, three spoke leather steering wheel is fitted. A retrofitted Kenwood head unit is fitted to the veneered centre console. The original, wear-prone leather gear knob has sensibly been replaced with a highly varnished wooden alternative. The well-shaped boot is fully carpeted in black and home to a fifth, MGR alloy wheel as a spare, tools and warning triangle. 
 

The MGR V8 is powered by the 3,947cc all alloy Rover V8 unit which was widely used both within the Rover Group and by others. In original trim the V8 was good for around 190bhp which endowed the MGR V8 with a six second 0-60 mph time and a 130+ mph top speed. Pretty healthy compared with the original MGB together with a significantly improved, burbling V8 soundtrack. In this example the earlier LT77S five speed gearbox features with a Quaife limited slip differential helping to keep everything on the straight and narrow.

Our photographic package shows that the underside of the car is in good shape for its age with no areas of concern noted. The under-bonnet presentation is very good overall. Everything looks relatively standard under here, complete with 3.9 inscribed rocker covers and MG embossed intake header. There are a number of recent looking and upgraded items present including the bright blue Magnecor HT leads.
 

There is plenty of provenance providing paperwork included with the MGR V8. This includes the V5 registration document in the name of the owner. The current, advisory free MoT is present in hard copy and is valid until the end of June 2026. 

Other highlights include the original book pack complete with the service record. The latter exhibits a full 17 entries despite the car’s very modest mileage. These cover mileages from 1,008 to 32,998. Lots of earlier MoTs are on hand in hard copy providing a progressive audit trail of the mileage. A good number of high value invoices are also included, helping to corroborate the impressive maintenance history of this MGR V8.
 

A bit like many cars of the era, the MGR V8 enjoys more desirability and popularity now than it ever did when it was first launched. It’s low volume, distinctly “proof of concept” nature is always going to stand it in good stead as a collectible sports car of distinction. The fact that it is essentially a marque approved, resto-mod of the esteemed MGB is just the icing on the cake.

Our example is a great example and certainly worthy of your attention if you are in the market for an interesting, V8 powered, open topped sports car. This example has covered less than 35,000 miles from new and appears to be in fine shape both inside and out. The desirable recent additions of power steering and full stainless steel exhaust system only add to the appeal of this charming example. Accompanied by plenty of supporting paperwork to digest at your leisure, this MGR represents a very sensible ownership opportunity with ample “head” and “heart” appeal.

We are happy to offer this car for auction with an estimate in the range of £17,000 - £22,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at Bonhams|Cars Online HQ. Viewings are STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT and we are open weekdays between 10am - 12pm or 2pm - 4pm. To make a booking, please use the ‘Enquire About This Vehicle’ button on the listing. Feel free to ask any questions, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.