Fitted with a 5 litre Rover V8 and numerous upgrades, this 1996 Marcos Mantara is a good and useable example of the marque’s first type approval model.

Still in the possession of its original owner, this Mantara has been well cared for by a number of specialists over the past 27 years. Originally upgraded to 5 litre specification by NCK racing in 1998, the car has since had a new power unit of the same capacity installed in 2009 at 32000 miles. To accommodate for the substantial power increase that the 5 litre engine brings, it  benefits from an additional Omex ECU with custom rolling-road fuelling and ignition mapping. Bespoke ceramic coated headers and stainless exhaust system, performance clutch, large capacity aluminium radiator and a Jenvey throttle body.

In addition to the uprated engine and ancillaries, 4 pot AP Calipers were installed by Marcos in 1999 as well as GAZ Gold shock absorbers by Topcats in 2011.

As a result of the above mechanical enhancements, this Mantara drives superbly. The engine sounds wonderful and provides an abundance of performance, matched with exceptional braking and handling capabilities.

Cosmetically, the car is in good condition for the mileage. Whilst the Avus blue paintwork is presentable, the nose is stone chipped and some of the wheel arches have minor scuffs.

The interior presents in a similar condition to the outside. The Fawn leather contrasts well against the Jonio blue carpets, though there is some wear and tear to the drivers side in particular. Classic Smiths instruments set in a beautiful Walnut dashboard completes the interior.

Many of Marcos’ usual features are also present on this Mantara: Power steering, an Alpine stereo with new speakers, heated screen and electrically adjustable pedals.