AC Cars Unveils Historic AC Cobra GT Coupe: A Fusion Of Legacy And Modernity

AC Cars, the oldest active vehicle manufacturer in Britain, has unveiled the AC Cobra GT Coupe. This marks the first official production of an AC Cobra coupe in the company's 123-year history. The new model is based on an enhanced version of the existing AC Cobra GT Roadster platform and draws inspiration from the company's rich racing heritage.

The new AC Cobra GT Coupe retains key design elements from the Roadster while incorporating a contemporary coupe profile. It is partly inspired by the AC A98 coupe Le Mans race car from 1964. The vehicle features an enhanced aluminium chassis and optimised carbon-fibre body, produced at AC Cars' advanced UK facility.

Historic AC Cobra GT Coupe Revealed
Historic AC Cobra GT Coupe Revealed
Historic AC Cobra GT Coupe Revealed
Historic AC Cobra GT Coupe Revealed

The AC Cobra GT Coupe includes motorsport-derived enhancements, making it a unique addition to the AC Cobra family. The Clubsport Edition, limited to just 99 examples, will feature a 799bhp V8 powertrain and will be delivered to clients starting at the end of 2025. Following this, a series production coupe will be available with either a normally aspirated 450bhp (456 PS) V8 or a supercharged 720bhp (730 PS) option.

David Conza, Chief Executive Officer of AC Cars, expressed his pride in the new model: "The reveal of the AC Cobra GT Coupe is a proud moment for us, and the story of a road-going AC Cobra coupe is one years in the making. To have been able to combine the timeless AC Cobra design into a car using the latest design and construction techniques breaks new ground for AC Cars."

The original AC Cobra was only available as a roadster from the factory, making this new coupe a significant milestone for the brand. The design carries over distinctive elements from modern models while drawing significant inspiration from historic race cars like the one-off AC A98 coupe. This car featured a Kammtail rear design to reduce drag and boost performance at high speeds.

The new coupe will honour this legacy with an evolved powertrain offering up to 450bhp (456 PS). For those opting for the limited Clubsport Edition, power will rise to 799bhp (810 PS), delivering an agile and ferocious road-legal car. The unique chassis construction ensures exceptional torsional rigidity and competitive suitability.

Specifications and Availability

The new coupe shares dimensions with its roadster counterpart: a wheelbase of 2570mm, length of 4225mm, and width of 1980mm. It maintains near-perfect weight balance front to rear with a low centre of gravity. The kerb weight for the standard model will be confirmed ahead of production, but the Clubsport Edition aims for under 1450kg.

Reservations for both models are now open at ac.cars, with prices starting at £325,000 plus taxes. Production will take place at AC Cars' UK facilities, continuing their tradition of building vehicles to exacting standards for exclusive clientele.

About AC Cars

Founded by the Weller Brothers in 1901, AC Cars is Britain's oldest vehicle manufacturer. Initially producing cars and motorbikes in London, they introduced their first vehicle in 1903 and gained success with their three-wheel commercial delivery vehicle in 1904. The company cemented its status with the launch of the aluminium-bodied AC Ace in 1953.

This model evolved into the legendary Ford V8-powered AC Cobra. Over time, it has maintained its iconic shape and unique design. With limited production and high standards, it remains reserved for exclusive clientele. Today, AC Cars operates facilities in both the UK and Germany and collaborates with leading industry suppliers for design and development.

The introduction of the new AC Cobra GT range signifies a new era for AC Cars as they continue to expand their development and production capabilities within their UK facilities.

Article Published On: Thursday, August 1, 2024, 22:34 [IST]
Read more on: #global #luxury cars
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