Marcos Mantula Spyder (1985-92)
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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COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The **Marcos Mantula Spyder** had a few common faults, mostly related to its **fiberglass body**, **chassis**, and **suspension setup**:
- **Bump Steer Issues** – Some owners reported **unstable handling** due to bump steer, which could be corrected with **modifications to the suspension geometry**.
- **Ill-Fitting Body Panels** – The fiberglass bodywork could suffer from **poor alignment**, leading to **gaps** or **misfitting panels**.
- **Side Window Mechanism Problems** – The **electric window regulators** were known to fail, requiring **modifications or repairs**.
- **Chassis Corrosion** – While Marcos used **steel subframes**, some areas were prone to **rust**, especially if exposed to **moisture** over time.
- **General Kit Car Quirks** – Since some Mantula Spyders were **kit-built**, quality varied depending on the **builder’s expertise**, leading to **electrical gremlins** or **mechanical inconsistencies**.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **Marcos Mantula Spyder** was part of the broader **Marcos Mantula series**, which evolved through several generations and trim levels.
**Generations**
1. **Marcos Mantula (1983–1991)** – The original coupe model, featuring a **Rover V8 engine** and a **fiberglass body**.
2. **Marcos Mantula Spyder (1985–1992)** – The **convertible version**, offering open-top driving with the same **Rover V8 power**.
3. **Marcos Mantula 3.9i V8 Spyder (1992–)** – A later version with a **3.9L Rover V8**, producing **173 hp**.
**Trim Levels**
The Mantula models were mostly **custom-built**, meaning trim levels were not standardized like modern cars. However, variations included:
- **Standard Mantula models** – Factory-spec versions with **Rover V8 engines**.
- **Race-prepared versions** – Some models were tuned for **motorsport**, featuring **performance upgrades**.
- **Special editions** – Limited-run models with **unique styling** or **engine modifications**.
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Engine/s
The **Marcos Mantula Spyder** was fitted with a **3.9L Rover V8 engine**, which provided strong performance and a distinctive exhaust note. Here are its key specifications:
- **Engine Type:** 3.9L Rover V8
- **Fuel System:** Lucas L-Jet fuel injection
- **Aspiration:** Naturally aspirated
- **Horsepower:** **173 hp** @ 4,550 rpm
- **Torque:** **214 lb-ft** @ 4,550 rpm
- **Compression Ratio:** **9.35:1**
- **Transmission:** **5-speed manual**
- **Drivetrain:** **Rear-wheel drive (RWD)**
This engine gave the **Mantula Spyder** a **top speed of 143 mph (230 km/h)** and a **lightweight, agile driving experience**.
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Performance
The **Marcos Mantula Spyder** delivered **strong performance** thanks to its **lightweight construction** and **Rover 3.9L V8 engine**. Here are its key performance specs:
- **Top Speed:** ~143 mph (230 km/h)
- **Power Output:** ~173 hp @ 4,550 rpm
- **Torque:** ~214 lb-ft @ 4,550 rpm
- **Weight:** ~890 kg (1,962 lbs)
- **Drivetrain:** Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
- **Transmission:** 5-speed manual
Its **low-slung design** and **fiberglass body** contributed to **sharp handling**, making it a **fun and engaging** sports car.
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Rivals
Here’s how the **Marcos Mantula Spyder** compared to some of its main rivals in terms of performance:
- **TVR 350i** – **Top Speed:** ~135 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~6.3 sec | **Power:** ~190 hp
- **Lotus Excel SE** – **Top Speed:** ~130 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~7.0 sec | **Power:** ~180 hp
- **Morgan Plus 8** – **Top Speed:** ~125 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~6.5 sec | **Power:** ~160 hp
- **Porsche 944 S2** – **Top Speed:** ~150 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~6.8 sec | **Power:** ~211 hp
- **Mazda RX-7 (FB)** – **Top Speed:** ~125 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~8.0 sec | **Power:** ~135 hp
The **Marcos Mantula Spyder**, with its **143 mph top speed**, **0-60 mph time of ~6.5 sec**, and **173 hp**, positioned itself between the **TVR 350i** and **Lotus Excel SE** in terms of performance. It was lighter than most of its competitors, giving it **sharp handling** despite its modest power output.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **Marcos Mantula Spyder** was designed by **Dennis and Peter Adams**, who were responsible for its **sleek, low-slung styling**. It retained the distinctive **fiberglass body** and **lightweight construction** that Marcos was known for.
**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)
- **Ground Clearance:** **5.1 in** (130 mm)
- **Curb Weight:** ~**890 kg** (1,962 lbs)
Its **compact size and lightweight build** contributed to its **sharp handling** and **agile performance**.
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Spares/Specialists NI
You can find **Marcos Mantula Spyder** spares in the UK and Ireland through specialized suppliers. Here are a few sources:
- **[Marcos Heritage Spares](https://www.marcosheritage.com/parts)** – The official supplier of genuine Marcos parts, using original moulds and patterns. They offer a wide range of components for all Marcos models.
- **[MEV Spares](https://www.mevspares.co.uk/Marcos-Car-Parts-All-Models/)** – A supplier of classic Marcos car parts, including clutch, brakes, suspension, and electrical components.
- **[Spydercars Marcos Parts](https://www.spydercars.co.uk/marcos-parts/)** – Specializes in Marcos components, including adjustable wishbones and restoration parts.
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Specialists NI
While Marcos-specific garages are rare, you can find **classic car specialists** in the UK and Ireland who may be able to service a **Marcos Mantula Spyder**. Here are a few options:
- **[Car and Classic](https://www.carandclassic.com/list/77/mantula+spyder/)** – A marketplace for classic cars, where you may find specialists offering maintenance and restoration services.
- **[PistonHeads Marcos Forum](https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?t=320028)** – A community where Marcos owners discuss maintenance, repairs, and recommended garages.
- **[Redline Sportscars](https://redlinesportscars.com/1993-marcos-mantula-spyder/)** – A dealer specializing in Marcos models, which may offer servicing or restoration advice.
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Racing
The **Marcos Mantula Spyder** was used in **club racing** and **historic motorsport events**, though it wasn’t as widely raced as some of its larger-engined siblings like the **Marcos LM600**. Marcos cars were known for their **lightweight construction**, making them competitive in **modsports racing** during the **1980s and 1990s**.
While the **Mantula Spyder** itself wasn’t a dominant force in professional racing, Marcos as a brand had strong motorsport pedigree, with drivers like **Jackie Stewart** and **Derek Bell** gaining early experience in Marcos cars. The company later developed models like the **LM600**, which competed in the **1995 Le Mans 24-hour race**.
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Valuation
In **2025**, a **Marcos Mantula Spyder** in the UK is valued at around **£12,995–£18,995**, 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 Mantula Spyder**, introduced in **1985**, was a significant model for Marcos, marking the company's **first convertible** 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**.
**Development & Design**
- The **Mantula Spyder** was based on the **Mantula Coupe**, which had debuted in **1983**.
- It retained the **fiberglass body** and **Rover V8 engine**, providing strong performance.
- In **1986**, Marcos introduced **independent rear suspension (IRS)**, improving ride quality and handling.
- The **Ford 2.0L DOHC engine** was also available as a more economical alternative.
**Production & Legacy**
- Only **119 Spyder models** were built between **1985 and 1992**, making it a **rare collector’s car**.
- The **Mantula Spyder** outsold the coupe in later production years.
- It helped **revitalize Marcos**, keeping the brand competitive in the **specialist sports car market**.
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