1995 MG RV8

As one of the 1,579 MG RV8s originally exported overseas, many have since returned to the UK where they are valued for their blend of classic MG styling and modern reliability. This 1995 example is a rare opportunity to acquire a low-mileage, original car, having covered only 37,036 kilometres, equivalent to just 23,013 miles. Powered by the 3.9-litre V8 engine, it delivers strong performance and an unmistakable exhaust note.

The car was imported into the UK in June 2025 and has been registered SORN since 5th July, ensuring it is ready for the next owner to register and use. With its exceptionally low mileage and limited production numbers, this MG RV8 is an extremely appealing option for collectors or enthusiasts looking for a well-preserved low-mileage example.
 

With a classic MGB heritage body, the RV8 comes with some appealing subtle updates, bringing a more modern look to the British classic.

Finished in the more common colour, but certainly one of the better-suited to the car, is the stunning Woodcote Green. This presents extremely well with minimal signs of age.

Straight away you will notice the more muscular stance of the RV8 (and rightly so; it is packing a V8 after all). The modern front end features a deeper bumper, two air intakes and slightly recessed headlights in aerodynamic surrounds that flow nicely into the slightly wider-than-original wings, giving it a more purposeful stance on the road.

From the side, the distinctive MG silhouette is unmistakable. Slightly protruding from the line of the wing is the bulging bonnet, giving you more of a clue that something tasty sits beneath. Looking from the side, the lines are uninterrupted by dings or dents and the panel gaps appear to be even. The black fabric roof is in good order with minimal creasing. There are a few minor age-related light scratches on the plastic rear window, as you would expect. The rest of the windows are in excellent condition, as are the window seals and trims.

At the rear, the RV8's wider stance is apparent with larger lights that have damage-free lenses. The fuel cap location remains unchanged and the bumper has a more modern look to match the front.

Fitted with the original alloy wheels, which are in excellent condition, these 15-inch BBS style wheels were common on the Japanese models and were supplied by Zender. They are, in fact, one-piece wheels rather than split rims as the bolts suggest. There is a matching set of Dunlop tyres, all of which have plenty of tread remaining.
 

Finished in Stone Beige Connolly leather with Burr Elm wood veneers, the MG RV8 is a fantastic place to be, with just enough uncomplicated creature comforts perfectly suited to a two-seater classic.

Open the door and take in the lashings of Stone Beige Connolly leather. The seats are in excellent condition with minimal signs of age other than some minor creases, but certainly less than you would expect. The ruffled leather and Elm wood-trimmed door panels are also in excellent condition.

More leather graces the dashboard and the fascia is finished in yet more Elm wood veneer. Unfortunately, this does have some patina to the lacquered finish, which has cracked in a couple of places. The perforated leather steering wheel is in excellent condition with no real signs of age due to the low miles covered.

All of the switchgear is in good condition and is reported to work correctly, as do the instruments. The odometer shows the super-low reading of 37,036 kilometres, equivalent to just 23,013 miles. The MG has also retained the factory head unit.

Throughout the cabin, a set of beige carpets are fitted and are in good, clean condition. The boot area is also clean and tidy, finished with black carpets. There is the original spare wheel in place and a Panasonic CD multi-changer as well as factory fitted air conditioning which delivers ice cold air.
 

3.9 litres in a car which weighs in at just 1,090kg is surely a recipe for a good time, and a good time is exactly what it delivers.

With 190bhp under the bonnet, the V8 fires into life with an intoxicating tone that any self-confessed petrolhead will recognise. The RV8 runs as you would expect with no issues reported.

Coupled to the V8 is a five-speed manual gearbox that is capable of propelling the lightweight two-seater from 0–60mph in around 5.9 seconds and to a top speed of 135mph.

Fitted with 270mm vented front discs and 6.9-inch rear drums, the car comes to a stop in a straight line with no issues reported.

As with many cars imported from Japan, the underside is in excellent condition thanks to the lack of salt and bad weather. The car has been coated in something at some point to future-proof it, which has flaked off in a couple of places, but let’s face it, a car from 1995 with virtually no surface corrosion is something of a rarity.
 

Landing in the UK in June 2025 means the car hasn’t had a chance to gain any history while in the UK, and as you probably know, cars from Japan rarely come with any service documentation, though this does have the original service history booklet and mileage verification certificate from Japan .

The original handbooks, an odd couple of Japanese documents, the NOVA certificate and the MoT certificate (which was carried out and passed with no advisories) are present.
 

This 1995 MG RV8 is a rare, low-mileage example, having covered just over 23,000 miles. One of only 1,579 cars originally exported overseas, it features the 3.9-litre Rover V8 engine, five-speed manual gearbox and classic MGB-inspired styling with a modern slant.

Recently imported into the UK, it remains a well-preserved example, perfect for collectors or enthusiasts seeking a limited-production British sports car with a bit more oomph over the original MGB.

We estimate that this two-seater British classic will fetch in the region of between £15,000 and £18,000.

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’.