The 1966 Marcos GT1500 was made using wood monocoque construction similar to aircraft in the 30's and 40's. Marcos are really wooden cars vs Morgan’s that have a metal chassis and the production numbers were very low on the Marcos with a total 1500 produced, and only 250 of them with a wood chassis.
The COS in Marcos was Frank Costin a aerodynamicist at de Havilland aircraft company and prolific in his work with Lotus, Lister Etc .
The original price for the GT1500 was on par with the Jaguar XKE. Marco's were very low cars but able to accommodate a tall drivers as the seats were fixed but the pedal box is adjustable.
Overview
- Make and Model: 1966 Marcos GT 1500
- Manufacturer: Marcos Engineering Ltd.
- Designer: Frank Costin and Jem Marsh
Specifications
- Engine: 1.5-liter (1498 cc) Ford Kent inline-four engine
- Power Output: Approximately 65-85 horsepower, depending on the tuning and specifications
- Transmission: 4-speed manual transmission
- Chassis: Wooden monocoque construction with steel subframes, later models transitioned to a fiberglass body over a steel chassis
Design and Features
- Body Style: Two-door coupe, featuring a sleek and aerodynamic design
- Exterior: The GT 1500's body is characterized by its low, wide stance, and distinctive long hood. It often featured pop-up headlights and a curvaceous body shape.
- Interior: The cabin was designed for two occupants and was known for its minimalist yet functional layout. The seats were low-slung, and the dashboard featured simple instrumentation.
- Construction: Early models used a plywood monocoque chassis, a unique and lightweight construction method that contributed to the car's agility and performance.
Historical Context
The Marcos GT 1500 was introduced during the 1960s, a decade known for its flourishing sports car market. Founded by Jem Marsh and Frank Costin, Marcos Engineering sought to create a lightweight, high-performance vehicle that could compete with other contemporary sports cars.
Noteworthy Aspects
- Innovative Construction: The use of a wooden monocoque chassis was unconventional but effective, offering a lightweight and strong structure. This construction method was later phased out in favor of fiberglass for ease of production and durability.
- Performance: Despite its modest engine size, the Marcos GT 1500 offered impressive performance due to its lightweight construction, making it nimble and enjoyable to drive.
- Design Philosophy: Frank Costin's background in aerodynamics (from his work in the aircraft industry) significantly influenced the car's design, leading to its sleek and aerodynamic profile.
Legacy
The Marcos GT 1500 is remembered for its innovative approach to sports car design and its contribution to the reputation of Marcos Engineering as a maker of distinctive and high-performing vehicles. The GT 1500 laid the foundation for subsequent Marcos models that continued to emphasize lightweight construction and performance.
You may purchase a print of the 1966 Marcos GT1500 in our dElegance 2019 online gallery.
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