While the 'reimagination' school of classic car restoring has become rather more popular recently, it's easy to forget that Eagle has been doing it since 1984. Imagine how far E-Type prices have risen since then!
When an engine shot is actually worth it
This is the latest creation to come out of East Sussex, the Spyder GT. Announced at the 2016 Classic Car Show, Eagle has now officially launched the car with the first few built. It is - hopefully you'll agree on this - an absolutely beautiful car.
Essentially this car brings together the look of the Speedster with the "poise and performance" of the Low Drag GT. Also key to the Spyder is a folding roof, something lacking from the Speedster. So there's no excuse not to use it...
Like other Eagle products, this Spyder GT is powered by the 4.7-litre straight-six, here producing 335hp (330bhp) at 4,800rpm and 340lb ft at 3,600rpm. With a power-to-weight ratio of 330hp per tonne (kerbweight is said to be just 1,029kg, thank to extensive use of aluminium and magnesium), Eagle claims a 0-60mph time of less than five seconds and a top speed in excess of 170mph. Noise? "A powerful deep growl", apparently.
Now you can use it rain or shine!
Of course the appeal of an Eagle for so long - in addition to how it looks - has been the drive, bringing the E-Type's dynamics bang up to date while losing none of the traditional charm and involvement. That's no different here, with a limited-slip diff to get that power down, Ohlins dampers front and rear and large (315mm front, 280mm rear) AP Racing discs.
So yes, the Spyder GT looks like another rather appealing package from Eagle. Interior doesn't look too shabby either... The price for the Spyder is £695,000 plus local taxes, including the purchase price of the donor cars that Eagle already have. Should you have your own E-Type you want Eagle to work on though, best give them a call!
