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Overview: The **Marcos Mantaray**, introduced in **1997**, was a significant model for Marcos as it marked a shift toward **softer, more modern styling** while retaining the company's **lightweight sports car philosophy**. It was based on the **Marcos Mantara**, but featured a **re-styled bonnet and rear end**, giving it a more conventional look.

**Key Significance**

- **Modernized Marcos Design** – The Mantaray introduced **smoother lines**, moving away from the more angular styling of earlier Marcos models.

- **Engine Variety** – It was available with **Rover V8 engines** (4.0L and 4.6L) and **2.0L Rover Tomcat engines**, including a **turbocharged variant**.

- **Limited Production** – Only **26 units** were built between **1997 and 1999**, making it a **rare collector’s car**.

- **Final Marcos Evolution Before Bankruptcy** – The Mantaray was one of the last models produced before Marcos faced financial difficulties, leading to its closure in **2000**.

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Generations/Trim Levels

The **Marcos Mantaray** was a **single-generation** model produced between **1997 and 1999**, based on the **Marcos Mantara**. It featured a **re-styled bonnet and rear end**, giving it a more conventional look while retaining Marcos' signature **lightweight sports car philosophy**.

**Trim Levels & Engine Options**

The Mantaray was available with multiple engine choices:

- **2.0L Rover Tomcat (Naturally Aspirated)**

- **2.0L Rover Tomcat (Turbocharged)**

- **4.0L Rover V8**

- **4.6L Rover V8** (Most powerful variant, producing ~324 hp)

Only **26 units** were built, making it a **rare collector’s car**. 

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Engine/s

The **Marcos Mantaray** was available with multiple engine options, including **Rover V8** and **Rover Tomcat** engines. Here are the key specifications:

**Engine Options**

- **2.0L Rover Tomcat (Naturally Aspirated)** – Compact and efficient, suited for a lighter driving experience.

- **2.0L Rover Tomcat (Turbocharged)** – Offered increased power and responsiveness.

- **4.0L Rover V8** – A naturally aspirated **V8**, delivering strong performance.

- **4.6L Rover V8** – The most powerful variant, producing **324 hp**.

**Performance Specs**

- **Horsepower:** Ranged from **190 hp** (3.9L V8) to **324 hp** (4.6L V8).

- **Torque:** ~319 Nm (235 lb-ft) @ 4,000 rpm.

- **Aspiration:** Naturally aspirated and turbocharged options.

- **Fuel System:** Lucas L-Jet fuel injection (for V8 models).

- **Drivetrain:** Rear-wheel drive (RWD).

- **Transmission:** 5-speed manual.

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Performance

The **Marcos Mantaray** delivered **strong performance**, thanks to its **lightweight construction** and **Rover V8 engine options**. Here are its key performance specs:

- **Top Speed:** ~150 mph (241 km/h)  

- **Power Output:** **190–324 hp**, depending on engine choice  

- **Torque:** ~319 Nm (235 lb-ft) @ 4,000 rpm  

- **Weight:** ~1,000 kg (2,205 lbs)  

- **Drivetrain:** Rear-wheel drive (RWD)  

- **Transmission:** 5-speed manual  

Its **sleek design** and **fiberglass body** contributed to **sharp handling**, making it a **fun and engaging** sports car. ***** 

Rivals

The **Marcos Mantaray** competed with several sports cars in the late **1990s**, each offering distinct performance characteristics. Here’s how it compared to some of its main rivals:

- **TVR Chimaera 4.0** – **Top Speed:** ~152 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~5.1 sec | **Power:** ~240 hp  

- **Lotus Elise S1** – **Top Speed:** ~126 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~5.8 sec | **Power:** ~118 hp  

- **Morgan Plus 8 (4.6L V8)** – **Top Speed:** ~135 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~5.9 sec | **Power:** ~215 hp  

- **Porsche Boxster (986)** – **Top Speed:** ~149 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~6.4 sec | **Power:** ~204 hp  

- **Mazda MX-5 (NB 1.8L)** – **Top Speed:** ~125 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~7.8 sec | **Power:** ~140 hp  

The **Marcos Mantaray**, with its **150 mph top speed** and **190–324 hp**, positioned itself between the **TVR Chimaera** and **Morgan Plus 8** in terms of performance. Its **lightweight design** gave it **sharp handling**, making it a **thrilling driver’s car**.

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Designer/Dimensions

The **Marcos Mantaray** was designed by **Dennis and Peter Adams**, who were responsible for shaping many of Marcos' iconic models. It was based on the **Marcos Mantara**, but featured a **re-styled bonnet and rear end**, giving it a more conventional look.

**Dimensions**

- **Wheelbase:** ~89.5 in (2,273 mm)  

- **Length:** ~163.5 in (4,153 mm)  

- **Width:** ~62.5 in (1,588 mm)  

- **Height:** ~42.5 in (1,080 mm)  

- **Weight:** ~1,000 kg (2,205 lbs)  

Its **compact size and lightweight build** contributed to its **sharp handling** and **agile performance**. 

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Spares/Specialists

For obtaining spares for your Marcos 3 Litre, here are some options: Spares:

1. **Marcos Heritage**: They are the only supplier of genuine Marcos parts worldwide. You can find a wide range of parts on their website [here](https://www.marcosheritage.com/parts). 

2. **MEV Spares**: They offer parts for various Marcos models, including the 3 Litre. You can check their offerings [here](https://www.mevspares.co.uk/Marcos-Car-Parts-All-Models/). 

3. **Classic Engine Parts**: They provide parts for the Marcos 3 Litre and other classic cars. You can visit their website [here](https://www.classicengineparts.co.uk/vehicles/marcos-3-litre-1968-to-1971). 

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Garage Services in Northern Ireland:

1. **Eurofix Car Repairs**: Located in Belfast, they specialize in classic car restoration and maintenance. You can contact them at 028 9062 2633 or visit their website [here](https://www.eurofixcarrepairs.co.uk/). 

2. **Good Autos**: Based in Saintfield, they offer a fully equipped workshop for servicing and repairs. You can reach them at 028 9751 2893 or visit their website [here](https://www.goodautos.co.uk/used/cars/mitsubishi). 

3. **Hollybrook Sports Cars**: Located in Glenavy, they provide vehicle servicing and restoration services. You can contact them at 028 9445 9446 or visit their website [here](https://www.hollybrooksportscars.com/). 

4. **McMillan Specialist Cars**: Based in Antrim, they offer classic car restoration and maintenance services. You can contact them at 028 9335 4911 or visit their website [here](https://mcmillanspecialistcars.com/services/classic-car-restoration/). These options should help you keep your Marcos 3 Litre in top condition.

Racing

The **Marcos Mantaray** was not widely used in professional racing, but Marcos as a brand had a strong motorsport heritage. While the Mantaray itself was more of a **road-going sports car**, Marcos cars were frequently seen in **club racing** and **historic motorsport events**.

Marcos had a history of racing success, with models like the **LM600** competing in the **British GT Championship** and **Le Mans 24 Hours**. The company’s lightweight construction made its cars competitive in **modsports racing** during the **1990s**.

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Valuation

In **2025**, a **Marcos Mantaray** in the UK is valued at around **£21,958–£24,995**, based on recent listings. Prices can vary depending on **condition, originality, and mileage**. Well-preserved examples or restored models may fetch **higher prices**, while project cars could be available for less.

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Clubs

There doesn’t seem to be a **specific Marcos owner club** in **Northern Ireland**, but you might find classic car clubs that welcome Marcos enthusiasts. The **Marcos Owners Club** is the main organization for Marcos cars, offering events, resources, and a community for owners across the UK. Additionally, **MarcosCars.net** lists various Marcos-related clubs that might have connections in Northern Ireland.

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HISTORY

The **Marcos Mantaray**, introduced in **1997**, was a refined evolution of the **Marcos Mantara**, designed to modernize the brand’s styling while maintaining its lightweight sports car philosophy. 

**Development & Design**

- The **Mantaray** was based on the **Mantara**, but featured a **re-styled bonnet and rear end**, giving it a more conventional look.

- It retained the **fiberglass body** and **Rover V8 engine**, ensuring strong performance.

- Marcos aimed to soften the car’s lines to align with **1990s design trends**.

**Production & Legacy**

- Only **26 units** were built between **1997 and 1999**, making it a **rare collector’s car**.

- Mechanically, it remained **identical to the Mantara**, utilizing the same **Rover V8 and 2.0L Turbo Tomcat engines**.

- The **Mantaray** was one of the last models produced before Marcos faced financial difficulties, leading to its closure in **2000**.

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Overview: The **Marcos Mantula Spyder**, introduced in **1985**, was a **major milestone** for Marcos, marking the company's **first convertible model** since the Fastback Spyder. It was designed to **modernize the brand**, offering a **sleeker, more refined** version of the Marcos GT series while maintaining the company's signature **lightweight construction**.

**Key Significance**

- **First Convertible Marcos** – The Mantula Spyder was the first open-top Marcos since the Fastback Spyder, broadening the company's appeal.  

- **Rover V8 Power** – It featured the **Rover 3.5L V8**, providing **stronger performance** compared to earlier Marcos models.  

- **Independent Rear Suspension (IRS)** – Introduced in **1986**, improving ride quality and handling.  

- **Limited Production** – Only **119 Spyder models** were built between **1985 and 1992**, making it a **rare collector’s car**.  

- **Revitalized Marcos** – The Mantula series helped Marcos **stay competitive** in the **specialist sports car market**, paving the way for later models like the **Marcos LM500 and LM600**.  

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Production Total: The **Marcos Mantula Spyder** had a total production run of **119 units** between **1985 and 1992**. This makes it a **rare and sought-after classic** among Marcos enthusiasts.

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Target Age Group: The **Marcos Mantula Spyder** was primarily targeted at **enthusiasts and sports car lovers** who wanted a **lightweight, high-performance convertible**. It appealed to drivers who appreciated **classic British engineering**, **Rover V8 power**, and **distinctive styling**. Given its **manual transmission** and **low-slung driving position**, it was best suited for **experienced drivers** rather than beginners.

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Sales: The **Marcos Mantula Spyder** had **limited sales success**, primarily due to its **niche appeal** and **low production numbers**. With only **119 units** built between **1985 and 1992**, it was never a mass-market vehicle but rather a **specialist sports car** aimed at enthusiasts. 

While it wasn’t a commercial blockbuster, it helped **revitalize Marcos** in the **1980s**, keeping the brand relevant and paving the way for later models like the **Marcos LM500 and LM600**. 

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Rivals: In **1985 UK**, the **Marcos Mantula Spyder** faced competition from several sports cars, each with varying price points. While exact figures for all rivals aren't readily available, here are some estimated prices for similar models:

- **TVR 350i** – ~£15,000  

- **Lotus Excel** – ~£14,000  

- **Morgan Plus 8** – ~£16,000  

- **Porsche 944** – ~£18,000  

- **Mazda RX-7 (FB)** – ~£12,000  

The **Marcos Mantula Spyder**, with its **Rover V8 engine**, positioned itself as a **specialist sports car**, competing with **TVR and Morgan** in terms of exclusivity and performance.

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Recorded in UK 2025

There isn't a publicly available record of exactly how many **Marcos Mantula Spyder** cars remain in the UK in **2025**, but they are considered **rare**. Given that only **119 units** were originally produced, the number still in existence is likely **very low**. 

You might find more details through the **Marcos Owners Club** [here](https://marcos-oc.com/home/) or by checking classic car registries in the UK [here](https://car-from-uk.com/country/uk/motors/marcos/). 

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Overview: The **Marcos 1500 GT**, launched in **1966**, was a pivotal model for **Marcos Engineering Ltd**. It was introduced primarily to **reduce production costs** and streamline manufacturing after the **diminishing sales** of the Marcos 1800. By incorporating **Ford’s 1500 GT engine**, the company was able to offer a **lighter, more affordable** alternative while maintaining performance. 

One of the most significant changes was the **simplified wooden chassis**, which cut production time and costs. The **elliptical torsion boxes** replaced the **triangular chassis design** of the 1800, and the **front subframe** was redesigned for efficiency. Additionally, the **independent rear suspension** was dropped in favor of a **live axle**, further reducing complexity. 

Despite these cost-saving measures, the **Marcos 1500 GT retained the sleek body style** of its predecessor, making it a **popular choice** among enthusiasts. However, fewer than **100 units** were produced between **1966 and 1967**, making it a **rare and sought-after model** today. 

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Production Total: The **Marcos 1500 GT** had a **production total of under 100 units** between **1966 and 1967**. This makes it a **rare and sought-after model** among classic car enthusiasts today. 

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Price New: The **Marcos 1500 GT** was priced at **£1,195** when new in the UK in **1966**. This made it a more affordable alternative to the **Marcos 1800**, which had a higher production cost. 

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Target Age Group: The **Marcos 1500 GT** was primarily targeted at **young driving enthusiasts** and **sports car lovers** in the **1960s**. It appealed to those who wanted a **lightweight, stylish, and affordable** performance car with a **distinctive design**. Given its **low-slung driving position** and **manual transmission**, it was best suited for **experienced drivers** who appreciated **precision handling** and **sporty performance**. 

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Sales: The **Marcos 1500 GT** was a **moderate success**, but it didn't achieve **high sales numbers**. It was introduced in **1966** as a cost-effective alternative to the **Marcos 1800**, with a **lighter chassis** and a **Ford 1500 GT engine**. However, fewer than **100 units** were produced between **1966 and 1967**, making it a **rare model** today.

While it was well-received by enthusiasts, its **limited production run** meant it didn't have a major commercial impact. Marcos later introduced the **1650 model** in **1967**, which offered **more power** but still remained a niche vehicle.

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Rivals: In **1966 UK**, the **Marcos 1500 GT** faced competition from several sports cars, each with varying price points:

- **Lotus Elan S2** – **£1,395**  

- **Triumph TR4A** – **£1,050**  

- **MG B GT** – **£998**  

- **Austin-Healey Sprite MkIII** – **£695**  

- **TVR Griffith 200** – **£1,750**  

The **Marcos 1500 GT**, priced at **£1,195**, positioned itself between the **MG B GT** and the **Lotus Elan S2**, offering a unique wooden chassis and lightweight design.

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Recorded in UK 2025

There isn't a publicly available record of exactly how many **Marcos 1500 GT** cars remain in the UK in **2025**, but they are considered **rare**. Given that fewer than **100 units** were originally produced, the number still in existence is likely **very low**. 

You might find more details through the **Marcos Owners Club** [here](https://marcos-oc.com/home/) or by checking classic car registries in the UK [here](https://car-from-uk.com/country/uk/motors/marcos/). 

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Overview: The **Marcos 3-litre (Volvo)** played a crucial role in the company's history, particularly in its attempt to break into the **U.S. market**. Introduced in **1969**, it was designed to comply with **American emissions regulations**, featuring a **Volvo B30 straight-six engine** and an **automatic gearbox**.

**Key Significance**

- **U.S. Expansion Attempt**: Marcos aimed to establish a presence in the **American market**, but when sales struggled, many of the U.S.-spec cars were converted to **right-hand drive** and sold in the **UK**.

- **Performance & Refinements**: The **3-litre Volvo** matched the performance of the **Ford-powered Marcos**, but featured a **single exit exhaust pipe**, a revised **power bulge**, and a **Ford Capri rear axle** to improve cruising ability.

- **Production Numbers**: A total of **172 units** were built between **1969 and 1972**, with around **60 originally intended for the U.S.**.

- **Legacy**: Despite its limited success in the U.S., the **3-litre Volvo** reinforced Marcos' reputation for producing **high-performance, lightweight sports cars**.

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Production Total: The **Marcos 3-litre (Volvo)** had a total production of **172 units** between **1969 and 1972**. Around **60 of these** were originally intended for the **U.S. market**, but after sales struggled, many were converted to **right-hand drive** and sold in the **UK**.  

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Price New: The **Marcos 3-litre (Volvo)** was priced at approximately **£2,500–£3,000** in the **UK in 1969**. This positioned it competitively against other British sports cars of the era, such as the **Lotus Elan, TVR Vixen, and Morgan Plus 8**.

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Target Age Group: The **Marcos 3-litre (Volvo)** was primarily aimed at **sports car enthusiasts and performance-focused drivers**, rather than a specific age group. Given its **sleek design, powerful Volvo B30 straight-six engine, and racing potential**, it appealed to **young professionals and experienced drivers** who wanted a stylish, high-performance vehicle.

Marcos cars were often sold as **kit cars**, meaning buyers could assemble them at home, which attracted **hands-on car enthusiasts** who enjoyed modifying and tuning their vehicles. The car’s **low-slung design and strong performance** made it popular among those looking for a **weekend racer or a unique road car**.

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Sales: The **Marcos 3-litre (Volvo)** had **limited commercial success**. While it was designed to break into the **U.S. market**, sales struggled, leading many of the U.S.-spec cars to be converted to **right-hand drive** and sold in the **UK**.  

Despite its **strong performance and unique design**, it remained a **niche sports car**, appealing mainly to **enthusiasts and club racers** rather than mainstream buyers. Production numbers were relatively low, with only **172 units built** between **1969 and 1972**.  

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Rivals: In **1969**, the **Marcos 3-litre (Volvo)** competed with several British sports cars, each with varying price points. Here’s an approximate comparison of its main rivals:

- **Lotus Elan** – Around **£2,000–£2,500**

- **TVR Vixen** – Around **£1,800–£2,200**

- **Morgan Plus 8** – Around **£2,500–£3,000**

- **Triumph TR6** – Around **£1,500–£2,000**

The **Marcos 3-litre (Volvo)** was priced competitively within this range, offering a **lightweight chassis and strong performance** for enthusiasts who wanted a stylish, high-performance vehicle.

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Recorded in UK 2025

As of 2025, there is no publicly available data or official record that specifies the exact number of Marcos 3-Litre (Ford) vehicles currently registered in the UK.

The Marcos 3-Litre, which utilized Ford engines, was a niche sports car produced by Marcos Engineering during its operational years. While historical records and enthusiast groups may track some of these vehicles, no centralized database or recent automotive registration statistics explicitly detail the count of this specific model in the UK for 2025.

To obtain an accurate figure, one would need to consult specialized sources such as:

1. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in the UK, which maintains detailed vehicle registration records.

2. Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd., which manages restoration and parts for Marcos cars and might have insights into surviving models.

3. Enthusiast clubs or registries dedicated to Marcos vehicles, where owners often self-report their cars.

Unfortunately, none of the provided sources or cited references include this specific information.

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Overview: The **Marcos 3-litre (Ford)** was a crucial model for **Marcos Engineering**, introduced in **1969**. It marked a significant shift in the company's design philosophy, as it was one of the first Marcos cars to transition from a **wooden chassis** to a **metal chassis**, improving durability and production efficiency. **Key Significance** - **Performance Boost**: The **Ford Zodiac 3-litre V6 engine** provided **136 bhp**, enabling a **top speed of 125 mph** and **0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds**, making it a strong competitor against sports cars like the **Jaguar E-Type**. - **Chassis Evolution**: Initially built with a **wooden chassis**, the **metal chassis version** was introduced later in 1969 to reduce production costs and improve structural integrity. - **Market Positioning**: The Marcos 3-litre helped the company establish itself as a serious player in the British sports car market, competing with brands like **Lotus, TVR, and Morgan**. - **Production Numbers**: Around **115 wooden chassis** and **196 metal chassis** versions were built, making it one of Marcos' more successful models. 

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Production Total: The Marcos 3 Litre had a limited production run, with only around 100 units produced between 1969 and 1972. 

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Price New: In **1969**, the **Marcos 3-litre (Ford)** was priced at approximately **£2,500–£3,000**, depending on specifications and trim. This positioned it competitively against other British sports cars of the era, such as the **Lotus Elan** and **TVR Vixen**.

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Target Age Group: The **Marcos 3-litre (Ford)** was primarily aimed at **enthusiasts and sports car lovers**, rather than a specific age group. Given its **lightweight design, powerful Ford Essex V6 engine, and racing potential**, it appealed to **young professionals and experienced drivers** who wanted a stylish, high-performance vehicle.

Marcos cars were often sold as **kit cars**, meaning buyers could assemble them at home, which attracted **hands-on car enthusiasts** who enjoyed modifying and tuning their vehicles. The car’s **low-slung design and strong performance** made it popular among those looking for a **weekend racer or a unique road car**.

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Sales: The **Marcos 3-litre (Ford)** had **moderate sales success**, but it was never a mass-market vehicle. Marcos cars were **hand-built in limited numbers**, and the **3-litre model** was no exception. While it gained popularity among **enthusiasts and club racers**, it remained a niche product rather than a mainstream commercial success.

Marcos cars were known for their **lightweight design and strong performance**, often competing well against bigger brands like **Lotus, TVR, and Morgan**. However, the company faced financial challenges, leading to production halts and eventual restructuring.

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Rivals: In **1969**, the **Marcos 3-litre (Ford)** competed with several British sports cars, each with varying price points. Here’s an approximate comparison of its main rivals:

- **Lotus Elan** – Around **£2,000–£2,500**

- **TVR Vixen** – Around **£1,800–£2,200**

- **Morgan Plus 8** – Around **£2,500–£3,000**

- **Triumph TR6** – Around **£1,500–£2,000**

The **Marcos 3-litre** was priced competitively within this range, offering a **lightweight chassis and strong performance** for enthusiasts who wanted a stylish, high-performance vehicle.

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Recorded in UK 2025

As of 2025, there is no publicly available data or official record that specifies the exact number of Marcos 3-Litre (Ford) vehicles currently registered in the UK.

The Marcos 3-Litre, which utilized Ford engines, was a niche sports car produced by Marcos Engineering during its operational years. While historical records and enthusiast groups may track some of these vehicles, no centralized database or recent automotive registration statistics explicitly detail the count of this specific model in the UK for 2025.

To obtain an accurate figure, one would need to consult specialized sources such as:

1. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in the UK, which maintains detailed vehicle registration records.

2. Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd., which manages restoration and parts for Marcos cars and might have insights into surviving models.

3. Enthusiast clubs or registries dedicated to Marcos vehicles, where owners often self-report their cars.

Unfortunately, none of the provided sources or cited references include this specific information.

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