At its 1953 introduction, the AC Ace was a much-needed breath of
fresh air for its home market. In distinct contrast to just about
everything else emerging from England, the curvy Ace with its
tubular chassis both looked and drove the part - it was modern
without being entirely too brash, at least from the get-go. Rather
unexpected attention from a failed chicken farmer turned race car
driver, combined with the support of the Ford Motor Company,
changed the AC Ace and its reputation in the United States forever
in the early 1960s with the introduction of the Shelby Cobra.
This factory left-hand drive AC Ace is reported to have been
delivered to an American buyer in suburban Washington, D.C., in
1956. In place of its original six-cylinder engine, it is equipped
today with the kind of power that Shelby himself would have
appreciated: a 289 cubic-inch V8. A four-speed Borg-Warner T-10
hustles power rearward via a Dana 44 axle to complete a proper
American-British sports car. It is believed that its Cobra-style
modifications were adopted early in its life, probably during the
1960s.
To accommodate-both visually and physically-the V8 swap, the car's
styling was updated to reflect design cues found on early Shelby
Cobra models. Its Wimbledon White paint hue comes right from the
Ford catalog, and enthusiasts will no doubt appreciate the
Cobra-style nose, hood scoop, and side vents. Period-style chromed
wire wheels wrapped in Avon classic tires sit under its subtly
flared fender arches-a nod to the car's English past. The roll hoop
sitting aft of the driver's seat serves to complete the
package.
Drivers after a machine suitable for high-performance driving will
find some appreciable upgrades underneath, like four-wheel disc
brakes including an inboard setup out back, rack-and-pinion
steering, and dual coilovers at the rear. The Ace is additionally
offered with a set of 15-inch Halibrand "kidney-bean" style alloy
wheels, which, when installed, give off "Competition Cobra"
vibes.
An extensive overhaul over the course of the last decade performed
by HRE Motorcars in New York has included many major mechanical,
suspension, and cosmetic enhancements, and today it presents as a
usable homage to the 1960s-era gentleman's racer. A worthy and
historic alternative to a genuine Shelby Cobra, this AC Ace is
eligible for numerous high-profile shows and rallies, and offers
serious performance in an attractive package that represents both
"Best of British" and "Best of the USA."
Vehicle Details
1956 AC Cobra
Listing ID:CC-2009694
Price:Auction Vehicle
Location:Las Vegas, Nevada
Year:1956
Make:AC
Model:Cobra
Odometer:1073
Stock Number:LV25Lot_136
VIN:AEX 198
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