1995 MG RV8 Roadster

Description

Having clung to survival in the 1980’s with some uninspiring sedans MG’s return to the ranks of a sports car manufacturer seemed highly improbable.  Then in 1992 came the news of a revamped and re-engineered version of the MGB - a car that held the all-time record for sports car production at the time of its demise in 1981.  With Rover looking to boost its image in the early 1990s, a V8 roadster was developed using 75% all-new components; badged the RV8, the engine was the same alloy 3.9-litre V8 found in the Range Rover.  Heavily restyled, the RV8’s updated appearance artfully melded the original B’s graceful lines with subtly flared guards and neatly integrated front and rear bumpers.  Gone were the humble interior fittings of the original MGB, replaced with walnut dash and door cappings, a full complement of instruments and leather seats.  A redesigned suspension system, with telescopic shocks, ball joints in the steering, power braking system with front discs and a heavy-duty anti roll bar was fitted making these modernised MG’s very competent handlers on today’s roads.  Badged as Rovers and hand-built at the Rover factory at Cowley in very small numbers, approximately 15 cars were completed each week, the vast majority destined for the Japanese market.  Roughly two thirds were finished in Woodcote Green, making cars in other colours a lot rarer and they normally command a small premium today.  Today the MGB’s swansong enjoys a loyal following around the world, with spares plentiful and they make fabulous club cars.