Marcos 3 Litre (1970)János Tamás, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Marcos 3 Litre

1970 — UK

Muscle Era (1960-1974)Grand TourerBritishLimited Production
Engine2,994 cc V6 OHV
Power128 hp
Torque174 lb-ft
Transmission4-speed manual
DrivetrainRWD
Body StyleCoupe
Weight2,072 lbs
0–60 mph8.7 sec
Top Speed120 mph
Production132 units
BrakesDisc / Disc
SuspensionIndependent, coil springs, wishbones / Independent, coil springs, wishbones

Marcos 3 Litre

Marcos' use of marine plywood chassis was unconventional but effective, providing rigidity with minimal weight. The 3 Litre model used Ford's reliable Essex V6, offering strong mid-range torque in a car weighing under 1000kg. Dennis Adams' styling was polarizing but aerodynamically efficient, with the extremely low bonnet line becoming a Marcos trademark. Only 132 were built before Marcos temporarily ceased production in 1971.

$45,000 – $75,000

Inspect wooden chassis carefully for rot, delamination, and previous repairs. Check fiberglass body for stress cracks around suspension mounts. Ford mechanicals are readily available. Originality is important as few survive unmodified.

Built from 1969-1971 before Marcos went into receivership. The wooden chassis was constructed from marine plywood with steel outriggers. Bodies were hand-laid fiberglass. The company later revived in 1981 under new ownership.