This is the new Eagle Spyder GT

Just take a moment to gaze over the Eagle Spyder GT. Go on. 

We've caught glimpses of it before, but this is the first car that's been built, and it's the first time it's been seen on the road. Gorgeous, isn’t it? But then we expect nothing less from the East Sussex-based restorer, whose Jaguar E-type based creations have been delighting us for years now. 

There’s 330bhp and 340lb ft on offer thanks to a custom, 4.7-litre straight six. That's enough to propel the Spyder GT from 0-60mph in less than five seconds, and on to a top speed in excess of 170mph. Which, in a drop top, should be pretty intoxicating. And loud. And blowy.

But that’s only a fraction of the story. It’s the relentlessness of the car’s restoration and improvement – a process known as ‘restomodding’ – that’s almost as beautiful as the E-type’s sweeping lines.

To save future repetition, let’s get this over with now – everything, and we do mean everything, is bespoke. That includes the aluminium monocoque, aluminium gearbox, aluminium engine and magnesium components, each engineered in exquisite detail. An adjustable front anti-roll bar, fully adjustable Öhlins dampers aand AP Racing brakes should ensure the 1,029kg Spyder is more than just a (very) pretty face, too. Admit it, you really want a go.

Of course, for £695,000, you’d have to expect this kind of engineering brilliance and singleminded attention to detail. But, considering original lightweight Jags are now getting on for £6m at auction, it seems like a bit of a bargain by comparison, no?