AC Cars, a marque with a storied history in British automotive manufacturing, is commemorating its 125th year by unveiling a significant addition to its lineup: the new Cobra GT Coupe. This powerful model is not merely a nostalgic nod to the past but a forward-looking initiative designed to propel the company into a new era of expanded production and market presence.
The Cobra GT Coupe draws inspiration from the iconic AC A98 Le Mans race car, a vehicle once celebrated for its impressive speed and singularity. While the A98 remained a unique creation, the new Cobra GT Coupe arrives with ambitious production goals. AC Cars aims to dramatically increase its output from approximately 100 handcrafted vehicles annually to an impressive 1,000 cars per year. This expansion is central to the brand's strategy for future growth and market penetration.
At the heart of the Cobra GT Coupe lies a robust Ford-sourced 5.0-liter V8 engine, catering to enthusiasts who value raw power and an exhilarating driving experience. This engine is available in two configurations: a naturally aspirated version generating 433 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, or a supercharged variant that unleashes a formidable 710 horsepower and 605 pound-feet of torque. Both engine options can be paired with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a ten-speed automatic transmission, offering drivers a choice in their preferred driving dynamics.
Performance figures for the Cobra GT Coupe are equally impressive. With a balanced 50:50 weight distribution and a curb weight of approximately 3,500 pounds, the vehicle is engineered for agility and speed. It is projected to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, solidifying its status as a high-performance sports car. This blend of classic design cues and modern engineering reflects AC Cars' commitment to honoring its heritage while embracing contemporary automotive advancements.
The company's strategic vision includes not only the coupe but also the recently introduced Cobra GT Roadster and a classic version. With first deliveries of the coupe expected to commence in 2028, AC Cars plans to offer both left-hand and right-hand drive models to cater to a global clientele. Pricing for the standard model starts at around $315,000, while the supercharged version commands a price tag of approximately $345,000. These offerings signify AC Cars' dedication to delivering premium, high-performance vehicles that resonate with discerning automotive enthusiasts.
The introduction of the Cobra GT Coupe, with its carbon-fiber body and powerful V8 engine, is seen as a pivotal moment for AC Cars. The move to a new production facility underscores the brand's commitment to scaling its operations, which could potentially make these iconic vehicles more accessible. The fusion of an extruded aluminum chassis with advanced materials like carbon fiber ensures a blend of lightweight construction and structural integrity, characteristics highly sought after in the performance car segment.
