Focus Mark V classic cars for sale

History of the Focus Mark V

The Focus Mark V traces its roots to the 1960s Swedish motorsport boom. Founded by Lennart Sundin and Sven "Buris" Burehed under Sportscars Motors, this model was built specifically for competitive racing, targeting international series like the World Championship for Sports Cars up to 2 litres. The Mark V entered the racing spotlight driven by famed Swedish driver Picko Troberg. Its development was heavily inspired by British engineering, notably Charles Lucas’s Lotus 23 chassis. All aluminium body parts were hand-crafted in Sweden, merging British foundations with Scandinavian innovation. Initially equipped with a Maserati powerplant sourced from Modena’s museum, the Mark V was soon paired with a potent 1600cc Ford Cosworth FVA, transforming its performance and collectability.

Model History

The Mark V occupies a special place in the Focus lineup, building upon earlier single-seaters before evolving into full-bodied sports cars. Unlike most contemporaries, the Mark V combined a British racing chassis with Swedish coachbuilding and advanced engine technology. Within a short span, Focus moved from formula cars to these light, aerodynamic prototypes, setting benchmarks in the Scandinavian sportscar niche. The Mark V’s successors continued to pursue motorsport advancements, yet none matched the original’s blend of home-grown and international expertise.

Highlights and Unique Features

Sportscars Motors developed the Mark V to be competitive on a global level, evident in its engineering detail. The signature aluminium coachwork, produced in-house, provided strength with minimal weight—a key advantage in races of the era. The original Maserati engine gave way to the Ford Cosworth FVA unit, widely respected by purists for its racing pedigree and responsive power delivery (about 200 hp from 1600cc). The chassis—engineered by Charles Lucas—inherits Lotus racing DNA, while a Hewland 5-speed transmission links the high-revving engine to the rear wheels for crisp, precise gear changes. Surviving Mark Vs often retain factory-original parts: chassis, body panels, competition wheels, and extra front sections, which further enhances their authenticity and desirability among motorsport historians.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Variants

While only a handful of Mark V units were produced, versions powered by the original Maserati engine are particularly notable due to their rarity and provenance. More commonly, the Ford Cosworth FVA versions are prized for their period racing success and the lasting allure of the FVA power unit in historic motorsport.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Due to the hand-built, race-oriented nature of the Focus Mark V, buyers should closely inspect the chassis for fatigue or prior accident damage, especially at key suspension mounting points. Aluminium bodywork can suffer from corrosion or poorly executed repairs; originality is important for maintaining value. Engine components for the Cosworth FVA and genuine Hewland gearboxes require specialist knowledge and periodic attention, especially after periods of inactivity. Parts supply may be limited for certain bespoke components.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

With a 1.6-litre Ford Cosworth FVA delivering roughly 200 PS and revving to motorsport levels, acceleration is vivid while maximising the lightweight chassis’s dynamic capabilities. The Hewland 5-speed gearbox is direct and crisp, perfectly mated for fast circuit work. The combination of advanced chassis layout from Charles Lucas and Swedish body engineering delivers agile, responsive handling—making it suitable both for historic racing and spirited track day driving. - Focus Mark V (Cosworth FVA): prized for performance and race heritage

• Focus Mark V (Maserati engine): significant for rarity and historical integrity

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Mark V is a purpose-built sports racer; comfort and luxury take a back seat to function. Driver ergonomics focus on optimal seating position, visibility, and direct feedback. The body, crafted in aluminium by Sportscars Motors, features sculpted lines inspired by the Lotus 23 but adapted for Swedish taste and aerodynamic requirements. Special racing wheels, extra front panels, and the retention of original period components distinguish surviving examples. Interiors are stripped for lightness, featuring only the essential instrumentation and control elements. While not built for comfort, the authenticity of the racing experience is preserved throughout.

Other Noteworthy Features

The Mark V synthesis—British racing chassis, Swedish craftsmanship, and iconic engines—represents a truly international motorsport collaboration. Individual provenance is key: vehicles with intact original documentation and factory racing components have particular appeal for those seeking eligible entries for historic events.

Summary

The Focus Mark V embodies a unique era of Scandinavian motorsport, blending British engineering, Italian and British power, and Swedish ingenuity. Built by Sportscars Motors for top-level competition, the Mark V’s enduring original components and rare status ensure it remains a highlight for enthusiasts seeking a genuine slice of 1960s endurance racing history.