Seasonal V8 Puzzle
What is significance of the time shown by this clock one evening so far as members with a knowledge of MG and V8 matters might find interesting?

For the first three correct answers received before Christmas Eve we will send them a free copy of the recently released recording of the RV8 Talk on CD plus a workshop notes update CD of your choice! Send your answers to Victor Smith by email or fax. The decision of the V8 Registrar shall be final.

victorsmith((atat))v8register.net
0208 392 9434
+44 208 392 9434

The replies so far have started well but I feel have not then focused sufficiently on a solution which is derived using simple mathematics using a fact which is of significance for V8 models and a fact and tradition for MG as the manufacturer at its former plant at Abingdon which has carried over to the Club Office of the MG Car Club today!

Mike Simmonds solved the puzzle at 9pm on 22nd December so he is the second prize winner. (22.12.03)

Chris Hunt-Cooke has produced the first correct answer to the V8 Puzzle at 2.30pm on 22nd December and it seems likely two of the group getting very close to the solution will take the second and third prizes very soon! (22.12.03)

Alan Kingwell hot foot from a seasonal mulled wine party popped in a response "Full of mulled wine my alcohol induced wild guess is: MGBGTV8 production started in August (08) 1973 and the sum of 1973 is 20,therefore 20.08. Also 2 plus 5 plus 1 is 8 the old Abingdon 251 still held by the Club. Oh dear I think I'm going to have a hang over!" An interesting response, so much so I am seeking a clarification of his answer - but may have to wait until he sleeps off the mulled wine! (21.12.03)

Mike Simmonds and Chris Hunt Cook are each within a gnat's crotchet of solving the puzzle! I have added a miniature malt as an additional small prize for the first correct answer! I hear four longstanding members - Alan Kingwell, Geoff Allen, John Targett and Mike Maude-Roxby - are rumoured to be working on it so there is hope we shall have some correct answers by Christmas Eve! (21.12.03)

Mike Simmonds has come up with some thinking along very similar lines to Chris and they are both very close to solving the V8 Puzzle! My reply to Mike was "I think if you combine your original observation with some of the excellent knowledge you have shown of MG traditions plus the use of an item of information which is plainly relevant to anyone with a V8, then it is simply mathematics! I would be very surprised if you do not solve it very soon!".

Chris Hunt Cooke has shown a very good knowledge of MG traditions and has only to spot an item of information which is plainly relevant to anyone with a V8, and then apply mathematics.

Tina Elias suggested the clock is at "8.08 or 20.08 which is the 30th anniversary of the end of production of the MGBGTV8".

Walter Kallenberg noted "8 past 8 is international like the V8 Register".

Mike Simmonds sent in the first response back in November suggesting 20.08 is 2008 the 30th anniversary of the formation of the V8 Register.