MG RV8 (1993 - 1997) RV 8 2d (1996/P) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It says that I don't get drawn into the latest fashions, but instead like to enjoy something a little quirky and classy.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Dad is envious, wife is confused, but equally loves being a passenger in it, and my friends half wonder why I didn't get a Porsche, Audi or Merc. Well, because that would the obvious and logical choice - and I never dreamt of being obvious or logical when I was a teenager planning what car I'd love to one day own.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes. Because everyday I drive it I am happier for it, and everyone I have ever met when in it wants to have a go, or find out what it is.

What are you likely to buy next?

My most likely next vehicle is a Type F Jag - but not for another 10 year or so. For my wife maybe the new MG3 if they provide a sportier engine option.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£13,000

When did you buy the car?

July 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

I felt that I had a very fair price for a low mileage vehicle which is holding its value very well.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I bought the car because I my father had been an owner of an MGB and an MG Midget. I myself had owned an MGB, but ever since the RV8 came out in the mid-90s (when I was teenager) I had wanted one. There is just something about the classic MG styling, and the reassuring rumble of the lazy v8.

What was the dealer like?

The experience was great, as the dealer had been involved in reimporting MGRV8s from Japan, where the majority had been sold, and in fact he had been out in Japan at the time that Rover had launched the RV8 out there.

What's it like to drive?

I love the fact that the engine just wants to go. Its very satisfying pulling away from junctions and getting up to speed effortlessly. Its fair to stay that the ride can be a little clumsy, and the cornering might not be pin sharp, but that just does nt matter when you are burbling along.

What's it like to park?

Easy to park, as its a pretty small car. though it is a bit of a workout for the forearms.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The only recurring issue, which I know others have encountered, is the derailing of the zip in the rear window. Twice now the zip has failed and thus rendered the roof unsecure. Luckily I ark in a garage at home and undercover in secure car park at work so it has not been too inconvenient until I could arrange for the MGOC to fix the issue. Other than that the car has been incredibly reliable and gets a very reasonably priced annual service from the local MG dealership, who are always curious to see such a rare car come in.

What's most practical about your car?

I did not by the car to be practical - I bought it to be a pleasure.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

As my model was sold in Japan originally, it does have air conditioning which amazingly for a convertible is actually quite useful at times. Otherwise, the car is very simple and practical from a gadget and accessory point of view, though the obvious advantage is the ability to take the roof down and cruise around in the open air with the faint rumble of the v8 accompanying your journey. I am lucky that I live on the coast and my drive home from work is always a pleasure in the RV8 and it never fails to put a smile on my face. In fact whenever I park up, even now, I still take a look back over my shoulder as I walk off, and grin to myself.