Race Against Convention: Sir Jackie Stewart's Oddly Stylish Racing Companion!

The Ugly Duckling - In the dynamic world of racing cars, rules and standards rarely dictate the aesthetics; hence, we witness the emergence of unconventional and eccentric designs that defy the norm.

The Marcos Xylon GT, affectionately known as the 'Ugly Duckling,' contributed to its lightweight design, leading to remarkable success on the race track in the capable hands during its heyday in the 1960s. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)

Adding a unique chapter to this narrative is the Marcos Xylon GT, affectionately known as the 'Ugly Duckling.' Even the renowned British racing maestro, Sir Jackie Stewart, found himself navigating the track in a vehicle deemed unique and unusual during the early years of his career in the 1960s. The intrigue deepens – what is this car, and how does it distinguish itself?

The Marcos Xylon GT with its unapologetic appearance, rolled off the assembly line in Dolgellau, Wales, designed by the accomplished Frank Costin between 1959 and 1960. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)

The 'Ugly Duckling,' with its unapologetic appearance, rolled off the assembly line in Dolgellau, Wales. Designed by the accomplished Frank Costin, famed for his work on Vanwalls and various Lotus sports racing cars, the car was a collaborative effort with Dennis and Peter Adams. Later, a small production run took place in Luton, immortalizing its peculiar presence.

The Marcos Mantis XP, another distinctively shaped car, emerged in 1968, crafted by the British automotive manufacturer, Marcos Engineering Ltd. (Picture from: Motor1)

The manufacturer, Marcos Engineering Ltd., a prominent name in the British automotive landscape during that era, has not only given us the 'Ugly Duckling' but also the Marcos Mantis XP, another racing marvel had explored in our earlier article.

The Marcos Xylon GT, once campaigned by Sir Jackie Stewart himself in the early years of his career during the 1960s. (Picture from: MarcosXylon)

Quoted from the Marcos-OC, the Xylon GT was purposefully crafted for 750 Motor Club events, featuring a wooden chassis, aptly named Xylon, derived from the Greek word meaning 'wood.' This unconventional choice contributed to its lightweight design, ultimately leading to remarkable success on the race track in the capable hands of Sir Jackie Stewart, Jem Marsh, and other racing luminaries.

The Marcos Xylon GT, once campaigned by Sir Jackie Stewart himself in the early years of his career during the 1960s. (Picture from: MarcosXylon)

Linked to the legendary vehicle once driven by Sir Jackie Stewart, the Marcos Xylon GT -  G128 with chassis #1003 was commissioned by Barry Filer. In the early '60s, the young Jackie Stewart showcased its prowess in North's club races during 1961 and 1962. Later, Jim Diggory took charge. 

The Marcos Xylon GT was purposefully crafted for 750 Motor Club events, featuring a wooden chassis, aptly named Xylon, derived from the Greek word meaning 'wood.' (Picture from: Pinterest)

In 1969, Jem Marsh discovered the car in a London Mews near Chris Lawrence's place, acquiring it for £250. Embarking on a restoration journey in the late '70s, Jem achieved monumental success, securing over 100 trophies and clinching three major Championships in HSCC races. 

The Marcos Xylon GT stands not only as a relic of the past but as a symbol of audacious design and pioneering innovation. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)

Beyond its distinctive appearance, the 'Ugly Duckling' boasts gull-wing style doors and a lofty roof profile, possibly catering to taller racers. This design trait, making Marcos cars a preferred choice for taller drivers, remains a hallmark even today.

The Marcos Xylon GT features iconic gull-wing style doors and a spacious roof profile, catering to the needs of taller racers. (Picture from: Stkone on Flickr)

Under the hood, the Xylon GT is powered by a Ford 105E engine paired with a four-speed gearbox, both sourced from Ford. Equipped with a pair of Weber carburettors, the 997 cc Ford engine delivers around 85 bhp. Standard hydraulic drums on all four corners provide stopping power, with front disc brakes available as an optional upgrade.

The distinctive appearance of the Marcos Xylon GT, making it a preferred choice for taller drivers, continues to be a hallmark to this day. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Historical records suggest that only nine units of the original Xylon GT were crafted between 1959 and 1960. Although succeeded by more conventional cars, the Xylon GT retained its unique wooden chassis. Notably, it played a pivotal role in shaping the career of Sir Jackie Stewart, propelling him toward a remarkable three-time Formula 1 World Champion status.

The Marcos Xylon GT is propelled by a Ford 105E engine paired with a four-speed gearbox, both sourced directly from Ford. (Picture from: Marcos-OC)

In the ever-evolving automotive landscape, the 'Ugly Duckling' Xylon GT stands not only as a relic of the past but as a symbol of audacious design and pioneering innovation. It serves as a testament to Marcos Engineering's commitment to pushing boundaries and creating racing machines that transcend the ordinary. | kiTfGhNJ12o |

In conclusion, the 'Ugly Duckling' Xylon GT remains an iconic piece in the mosaic of racing history, reminding us that in the pursuit of speed and excellence, beauty often takes unconventional forms. As we celebrate the legacy of the Xylon GT, we acknowledge its significant role in the illustrious career of Sir Jackie Stewart, a testament to the enduring impact of unique racing creations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES  | MARCOSXYLON | MARCOS-OC | ULTIMATECARPAGE ]

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