Expert Buyer

MG RV8 77

PROJECT  IS IT DAMAGED? Shabby or rotten RV8s are virtually unheard of. They’re more likely to be accident damaged.  CAN YOU DO IT? The mechanicals are rustic, but with more electrics than a ‘B (you’ll need diagnostic equipment) and more trim. It’s galvanised too, which makes welding trickier.  GETTING THE BITS Devoted suppliers and commonalities with (for example) MGB and Range Rover help with part-sourcing, but some RV8-specific parts are like hens’ teeth. USABLE  RECOMMISSIONING Under-use is common, leading to seized brakes and perished hoses, tyres and gaskets. walk away from any example that shows water ingress. evidence of long-term  IS IT HOT AND BOTHERED? 3.9 V8s are prone to damage from overheating unless the coolant is frequently flushed. Check the service record.  LOOK AT THE TRIM Leather trim wear should be minimal, but the walnut dash can crack. It’s a good haggling point because renovation is £350 just for the walnut. GOOD  HAVE A LOOK AT THE CAR’S MILEAGE Low mileage is common (thanks in part to the V8’s thirst) so don’t get too excited unless it’s under about 30k, and backed up by a top service record.  EXTRAS Upgraded suspension (eg. Spax adjustable dampers) can slightly increase the value if receipts prove professional fi tment. Rare hard-tops fetch up to £3k on their own.  BEWARE ANY ROT Factory zinc coating and wax means that the RV8 survived better than its predecessors. Most are smart – visible corrosion is a definite no-no in this price bracket. CONCOURS  ORIGINALITY The best are painstakingly preserved, dry stored, with very low mileage. Full-scale restos are rare, so focus your search on well-loved originals.  IS IT AN IMPORT? Over three-quarters went to Japan and many have been repatriated, but good UK cars are often worth more. Some have been here for 20 years.  DIFFERENTIATORS Colour matters. More than 60 percent were Woodcote Green, so reds and blues fetch a small premium. All RV8s share the same 3.9 V8 and R380 gearbox.