Eagle launches Spyder GT

Eagle has announced a production version of the Spyder GT concept it launched last February.

Like the company's existing Speedster and Low Drag GT, the latest Spyder GT is based on the original Jaguar E-Type.

Differing from the Speedster, the Spyder GT comes with a folding roof and a taller-raked windscreen allowing a more relaxed driving position.

Despite the Spyder GT's less sporting intent, an all-new aluminium monocoque, gearbox and engine block, plus the heavy use of magnesium to shed mass sees the car weigh in at just 1029kg.

Under the bonnet is a modified version of Jaguar's famous straight-six 'XK' engine. Bored out to 4.7 litres, the powerplant produces 246kW/460Nm.

That's enough to gift the E-Type replica performance on par with a BMW M4, with the Spyder GT sprinting to 100km/h in less than 5.0 seconds and topping out at around 275km/h.

Beginning life as a Jaguar E-Type donor car, the Spyder GT takes more than 6000 hours, or 250 days, to create.

Biggest change over the '60s original is the aluminium monocoque that features wider, deeper sills and a lower floor pan. The modern underpinnings also allow the firm to fit wider wheels, modern brakes and suspension.

Each Eagle also comes with bespoke adjustable suspension and power steering.

Any parts that can't be restored and reused are then fabricated out of aluminium.

Originally formed back in 1984 in East Sussex in the UK, Eagle started life as a Jaguar E-Type restorer before moving on to creating its own hand-made cars.

With the production of the first six lightweight roadsters complete, Eagle will begin building the next batch. If you fancy one, they won't be cheap.

In the UK, each Spyder GT costs an incredible £834,000 (A$1.4 million).