Historic sports and performance car specialist, DM Historics is delighted to offer a very special British sports car for sale: the MG XPower SV-R, as the cult-hero model celebrates its 20th anniversary. It represents a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of British motoring history: the rarest and most potent MG ever produced.
The MG XPower SV-R captivated British car enthusiasts when it was launched to the world at the Birmingham Motor show in 2002. It was born from the optimism of the new millennium, conceived to establish MG and its new XPower brand, as a player in the rarefied upper echelons of the performance car market.
The project kicked-off when MG acquired the Italian brand Qvalve in 2001, which had been developing a sportscar of its own, the Mangusta. MG acquired the rights to the Mangusta platform, with its already-homologated mechanicals providing the perfect basis for MG’s own high-performance machine.
MG’s X80 concept followed; it cloaked these thoroughbred Italian underpinnings in a reserved British GT body, a shape that wouldn’t have looked out of place with a Jaguar or Aston Martin badge on its bonnet.
The initial shape was, however, deemed too ‘sedate’ visually, so Peter Stevens the legendary McLaren F1 designer, was tasked with revising it, injecting more aggression and purpose. The very noughties, motorsport inspired shape that emerged in 2002 looked like nothing else on the road, taking influence from the wild ‘tuner’ cars of the day, the popularity of which had been turbocharged by the ‘Fast and Furious’ films. The films were actually cited by Stevens as an inspiration for the design. His creation still looks outlandish, two decades on.
When it came to building the car, MG worked with specialists Prodrive and SP Systems, deploying a mix of carbon fibre and lightweight aluminium for the body; at the time these were cutting edge, exotic materials usually the preserve of blue-blooded supercars. They offered lightness and strength in equal measure, going some way to offset the car’s heavy-duty, but heavy, drivetrain.
Moving inside, the cockpit was driver focused and lushly appointed, combining racing-style bucket seats and minimalist controls – all trimmed in high-quality, hand stitched leather. Despite the liberal use of hides, it was clearly a serious driver’s car, rather than a cossetting, luxury grand tourer, with a raw driving experience to match.
The production spec SV was powered by a 325bhp 4.6-litre Ford V8, putting it right on a par with the leading sports cars and GTs of the day. This was followed by an even more potent version, the supercar rivalling SV-R, in 2004. The R packed a Roush fettled 5.0-litre V8 putting out a claimed 390bhp, accompanied by a stout 391lb/ft of torque. In reality the engine was rumoured to produce a touch more power: over 410bhp, making it a match for the supersonic Porsche 996 Turbo in terms of firepower. This was sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual Tremec gearbox. It could accelerate to 60mph in under 5 seconds and exceed 175mph flat out; very impressive numbers for the early 2000s.
The example being offered by DM Historics, one of just 42 SV-Rs built, is finished in the desirable Ferrari colour of Grigio Titanium, with the interior trimmed in white leather – a colour combo that perfectly fits the SV-R shape. It was also specified with the Aero body pack, as well as uprated Brembo brake discs, which nestled behind striking, MG-OZ five spoke 18″ alloy wheels.
The car presents in exceptional condition, having covered just 10,500 miles from new, and benefits from a full specialist service. It has been cherished, and has starred at MG owners’ club displays around the country, including at the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace.
Jack Twinam, Sales Manager, DM Historics, said: “We’re delighted to offer this fine example of the cult-classic MG XPower SV-R for sale. While it never sold in the numbers MG Rover might have hoped for, twenty years on from its launch, the XPower SV-R stands out as a bold, brave – and, it must be said, slightly mad – experiment in the history of British sports car engineering. It’s a machine that conjures up an age of optimism and ambition in the UK car industry, and is remembered fondly by enthusiasts as a machine that dared to be different.
“Thanks to its innate character and charm, coupled with rarity and serious performance credentials, as it passes its 20th birthday, the SV-R has become a sought-after collector’s item. This example has been pampered by enthusiast owners since new and presents in exceptional condition throughout. It’s likely the best and only SV-R available on the market.”
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Editor’s Notes
Born from strong demand for low production, interesting vehicles with provenance, DM Historics specialises in the procurement of iconic classic sports cars for the discerning.
Based in the stunning surroundings of rural Kent, DM Historics is steered by a passionate and experienced team dedicated to providing the finest in customer service, making buyers’ ownership dreams a reality.
Alongside sister company E-Type UK, leading authority on the iconic Jaguar E-Type, DM Historics stock consists of a wide variety of makes and models united by one factor: quality.
DM Historics’ consignment and brokerage services offers a professional and transparent transaction for those looking to sell their classic, utilising its extensive network and expertise to maximise returns and customer satisfaction.
Experts in digital marketing, DM Historics fresh and modern take on online classic car presentation ensures maximum exposure and engagement.
With a talented workshop team on hand to also further enhance your newly acquired classic to your desired speciation, ensuring your classic provides an exciting and comfortable driving experience, while maintaining the essence and character of the machine.
With a commitment to first-class customer service, the experienced, knowledgeable and passionate team behind DM Historics are a one-stop-shop for your next classic car purchase.
