Page "Marcos (automobile)" Paragraph 26

In 1983 the Marcos Mantula was introduced, externally very similar to the old GT, but now powered by a 3. 5-litre Rover V8 with a 5-speed gearbox.

This alloy engine weighed less than the previous six-cylinder cast-iron units, reducing overall weight to about 900 kg and making the car competitive against other Rover-powered sports cars such as TVR and Morgan.

The engine evolved into the Rover Vitesse Efi engine, and later Mantulas were fitted with the 3. 9 Efi.

In 1986 the model was made available as a convertible, the Marcos Spyder, which would outsell the coupés in later production.

1989 saw the introduction of independent rear suspension, together with the Ford Sierra's 7 " differential and disk brakes.

The improved suspension allowed a full-width boot and the relocation of the battery and heater / air conditioning.

170 coupés and 119 Spyders were produced.