Rarer and faster than a Mini Cooper S, the Mini Marcos was one of the great Mini derivatives and one of the first 'hot hatchback' designs. They were raced and rallied with considerable success during the mid 1960's and in the hands of Jean Louis Marnat and Claude Ballot-Mena achieved an amazing 15th overrall finish at the 1966 Le Mans, topping over 200 KPH down the Mulsanne straight. This heroic effort made a huge impact on the French spectators who endearingly christened it 'La Petite Puce' (little flea) and today these cars remain very popular in France. Mini Marcos's are eligible for some of the most prestigious historic motorsport endurance events such as Classic Le Mans which are excluded to Mini Coopers. These tiny cars were originally conceived to seat four people(!!), always an improbable aim given the low roofline. This one is an early MK IV, chassis no 8007, built at the Marcos factory in Westbury and has sensibly been set up as a two seater. It has recently been re-commissioned after many years in storage and has had one owner since 1982. Fitted with the 1275cc BMC engine and twin SU carburettors, the Speedwell badge at the back suggests that in the past this car has been 'breathed on' by that renowned performance tuning company. It also retains the rare period Dunlop aluminium 10" sports wheels. The fibreglass bodywork is in excellent condition as are both the subframes and the paintwork is immaculate. Fitted with new bucket seats and equipped with harnesses and comprehensive instrumentation. Noisy, spartan and with rock-hard suspension, this is no comfort-wagon, but it attracts interest wherever it goes and offers huge fun. Presently setup for road use with current Mot and historic category tax exempt, this diminutive yet potent car could easily be developed for historic rally or circuit use. Be quick before it goes to France! οΎ£ P.O.A Colour: Aluminium Right-hand Drive
