1986 Mini Marcos Mk2 Twin SU carbs with K&N filters

Highlights

• In current ownership for four decades
• Genuine shell constructed at the Marcos factory in the 1970s
• Mechanical refurbishment and repaint approximately seven years ago
• Recently recommissioned and MOT tested with no advisories
• Maintained by a family with extensive knowledge of Mini derivatives
• Mini Sport 1275 block bored +40 thou (1,293cc) with lightened flywheel, 1.5:1 roller rockers, and MG Metro cam
• Twin timing chain and alloy rocker cover
• Twin 1.5" SU carburettors with K&N filters

The Appeal

The Mini Marcos is perhaps the most interesting of all the Mini derivatives: a lightweight fibreglass GT that famously became the only British car to finish the 1966 Le Mans 24 Hours. The Mk2 refined the original concept, and examples built on genuine Marcos factory shells are increasingly sought after by enthusiasts.

This car has been in the same ownership for approximately 40 years, purchased in 1986 from the South Wales valleys. Its shell was constructed at the Marcos factory during the 1970s and the car was first registered in 1986. It joined a family collection that included four other Marcoses and several other Mini derivatives, ensuring it was cared for by people with deep knowledge of these cars. It was a regular at Mini Marcos and Marcos Owners Club events throughout the 1980s and 1990s, serving as both a daily driver and a holiday car.

Approximately seven years ago, the car underwent a mechanical refurbishment and was repainted from yellow to purple. After a period of dry storage due to the owner's illness, it has recently been recommissioned and passed its MOT with no advisories. Under the bonnet sits a high-specification 1,293cc engine built around a bored Mini Sport 1275 block, fed by twin SU carburettors and breathing through a stainless steel Maniflow exhaust. The vendor describes it as great fun to drive, very quick, and handling very well. The vendor adds that this as a very reluctant sale after four decades of cherished ownership.
"The car is great fun to drive and a very quick road car given the engine spec, brakes and handles superbly, one of those cars that puts a smile on your face, eggs you on to drive it, you get out, and want to get back in and have another go!! The car attracts attention wherever it goes, so don't expect a quick trip to the shops as someone will stop you to ask about it. This car will be well missed after 40 years of ownership; the only consolation is knowing the next owner will love it."

Key Information

• Mileage: 68,130 miles (indicated)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• MOT status: valid until May 2027
• Technical specs: 1.3-litre A Series inline four-cylinder petrol, four-speed manual
• Paperwork: offered with limited documentation, maintained by a family with extensive knowledge of Mini derivatives
• Notice to bidders: this car is registered on a 'Q' plate

The Detail

• Mini Sport 1275 block bored +40 thou (1,293cc) with lightened flywheel, 1.5:1 roller rockers, and MG Metro cam
• Twin timing chain and alloy rocker cover
• Twin 1.5" SU carburettors with K&N filters
• Stainless steel Maniflow manifold and stainless steel exhaust
• MG Metro radiator with twin Kenlowe fans and silicone hoses throughout
• Remote change gearbox with 3:1 differential
• 8.4" front disc brakes with Mintex pads, assisted by a remote servo
• Mini fin rear brakes with copper brake pipes throughout
• New seats recently fitted; the vendor describes the black interior as being in very good order
• Flared front arches with doors modified to fit and shut correctly
• Bonnet bulge with bespoke grille and air scoop
• Marcos badges with machined shrouds front and rear
• 13" Mini Lite wheels with Yokohama tyres
• Paint showing its age with some flaking and gel coat cracking visible on close inspection
• Wind-up windows, 2-speed wipers, and heated rear screen
• Rare 3-in-1 gauge displaying temperature, oil pressure, and fuel level
• Period cassette radio and a small glove box fitted to the dashboard
• Carpeted throughout with a good headlining
• Static seat belts fitted

BEFORE YOU BUY

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