Description:

Marcos 1800 factory GT Lightweight

This is an original factory built 1966 lightweight retaining its Volvo engine (17-8089 – in full race spec by Mass engineering), four-speed close ratio synchromesh gearbox, and original spec plywood chassis (4083).  It was originally exported to Spain in LHD configuration before returning to the UK in the 1990s for a full restoration by marque expert Dave Methley.  The engine has only a few hours on it and the rolling road print out shows a maximum of 178bhp with a smooth torque curve that only drops off at the top of the rev range.  Recently it has been under the care of Steve Mace who started out as a mechanic for Methley and remains a friend. His knowledge of these cars is limitless and (perhaps more importantly) he has in stock spare parts for everything. There are three in his workshop. He has rebuilt the gear box and differential and revised the suspension set ups under the tutelage of Mark Hales (who won many Modsports races in a wooden chassis Marcos 3-litre) back in the day.  I have spent a lot of money on this car as the invoices can attest.  It is race ready with only small adjustments necessary to suit the driving style of the new owner.

It comes with two sets of wheels, one Yoko shod – the other regulation L-section Dunlops.  It also has a long range fuel tank for endurance races. It is highly presentable with all racing dings repaired and is a great car to drive having none of the skittishness of an Elan but reminding you when close to the limit. Its previous owner raced it several times at the Spa 6 hours, with some success against Ford GT40s. It is eligible for HSCC Historic Road Sports and the Guards Trophy and many other series in the UK and Europe.

You should be aware that because Jem Marsh never homologated this model the FIA classes it as a sports prototype.  That is not really an issue as most race organisations accept it in the 2 litre production class.  

So why am I selling it at this bargain price?  I have decided to retire from racing – been there, done that – and I have neither the time nor funds post Covid to get me back to being competitive again.  In consequence I cannot be bothered to renew its FIA papers, nor get it road registered to meet another series requirement. Both of these should be straightforward, if time consuming. 

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