The latest AC Cobra is coming in 2023.
AC Cars is back in the Cobra game, this time with its own clean-sheet design to be unveiled in spring 2023. The company teased the car's design this week, and its reveal coincides with AC's 122nd anniversary.
AC Cars is one of the oldest car companies in the UK, the same company that built Carroll Shelby's V8-powered Ace sports car in 1962 to create the legendary Shelby Cobra. [Shelby is sold in some markets as the AC Cobra, and AC has recently begun manufacturing replicas.
The new Cobra AC is working on will be called the AC Cobra GT Roadster. The teaser suggests that it will feature a classic Cobra design, but AC says it will use a new extruded aluminum chassis and a body made of carbon composite material AC has also confirmed that the wheelbase will be 101 inches, or about 11 inches longer than the original longer than the original. The chassis was developed by Italy's Icona Design Group and Cecomp Spa.
The increased size should improve stability and ride comfort, and AC says that despite the increased length, the car still has excellent torsional rigidity. Modern features such as air conditioning, power windows, and an infotainment system will help the car appeal to a new generation of buyers.
Options are plentiful.
Options include carbon fiber seats, leather trim, and a removable hardtop roof.
Power comes from Ford's latest 5.0-liter V-8, mated to a 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic. Maximum output will be 654 hp and maximum torque will be 575 lb-ft. Curb weight is expected to be around 3,300 pounds, and with this much power, the 0-60 mph time should be under 3.6 seconds, according to AC. Top speed is 172 mph.
Production will take place at an undisclosed location in Europe. Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but interested buyers can already place reservations.
