Finished in Mazda Soul Red Crystal over a restored magnolia leather interior, this 1997 Marcos Mantara Spyder has undergone an extensive body-off restoration, completed in 2024.

The work was carried out by Redline’s own Dave Chivers, with the project thoroughly documented throughout on the Marcos owners’ forum. The body was completely removed to allow proper access to the chassis, which was repaired here at Redline Sportscars before being fully prepared and refinished.

With the car dismantled, the suspension components were stripped and powder-coated before reassembly. The underside was carefully rebuilt and extensively panelled, resulting in a clean, well-presented structure that reflects the depth of work carried out rather than simply focusing on the areas that can be seen from above.

The body received a complete respray in Soul Red Crystal. This modern Mazda colour works exceptionally well with the flowing lines of the Mantara, changing considerably according to the light and giving the car far more depth than a conventional solid red finish.

Power comes from the familiar 3.9-litre Rover V8, paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. During the restoration, the engine and gearbox were serviced and carefully refitted. The engine is also fitted with tubular mild-steel exhaust manifolds finished with a heat-resistant Zircotec coating.

The original heater installation has been removed and replaced with an upgraded air-conditioning system, which is fully operational. This is a particularly useful improvement in an open sports car with a compact cabin and makes the Mantara much more comfortable during warmer weather.

Inside, the magnolia leather upholstery has been professionally restored rather than replaced, retaining the character of the original interior while presenting extremely well. It is complemented by the traditional burr-wood dashboard, matching centre-console trim and a wood-rimmed steering wheel. The black folding hood has also been carefully restored and remains in good condition.

Now showing approximately 72,000 miles, the car is accompanied by a good history file together with extensive photographic and forum documentation covering the restoration. The finished car has since been used and enjoyed at various events, demonstrating that it was rebuilt to be driven rather than simply displayed.

The Mantara starts, runs and drives extremely well, with no known faults. Its combination of a properly repaired chassis, body-off restoration, striking paintwork, restored leather cabin, working air conditioning and classic Rover V8 makes this an especially appealing example.

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a thoroughly restored Marcos Mantara Spyder with the major structural and cosmetic work already completed and documented.

Year: 1997
Mileage: Approximately 72,000 miles
Engine: 3.9-litre Rover V8
Transmission: Five-speed manual
Body: Mantara Spyder
Colour: Soul Red Crystal
Interior: Restored magnolia leather
Restoration completed: 2024
MOT: Until April 2027

Viewing is welcomed by appointment through Redline Sportscars.