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In 1970 Marcos embarked on
totally new concept - the 4 seater Marcos. It was code named the M70 and
marketed as the Marcos Mantis 2 + 2.
The car was styled by Dennis
Adams with input from Jem Marsh. Brian Cunnington ( Marcos's ex-Lotus
design engineer ) designed the chassis and productionalised the
vehicle.
The Mantis was powered by the 2.5
PI straight six Triumph engine coupled to the Triumph 4 speed gearbox with
overdrive. The suspension was similar to the
3 Litre, but featured trailing links and an A-frame to locate the Ford
Capri rear axle. The futuristic design was greeted
with mixed feeling and certainly grabbed attention at the Earls Court
Motor Show in 1971.
The Mantis was probably launched at
the wrong time for Marcos. It coincided with the collapse of the American
market, the move to the new factory in Westbury, and the development
costs of the car, only 32 cars were ever made. This being said, all 32
cars sold within an eleven month period prior to the factory closing in
1972.
| Engine |
Triumph 2498cc Petrol Injected 6
cylinder |
| Maximum Output |
150 bhp |
| Performance |
0 - 60 mph in 9 seconds,
Top speed of 120 mph. |
| Vehicle Height |
46" |
| Overall Width |
71" |
| Kerb Weight |
2300 lb |
| New Price |
£3185.00 (1971 ) |
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