AC Cars announced plans to launch a new iteration of the Cobra GT roadster in spring 2023. This will be the latest chapter for a model that has a close history to the Shelby Cobra. The updated vehicle will utilize modern manufacturing methods while retaining a similar general styling to the original sports car.
Power for the new AC Cobra GT roadster will come from a V8 with an undisclosed displacement of up to 654 horsepower (488 kilowatts) and 575 pound-feet (780 Newton-meters). Buyers can choose a six-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic. Projected acceleration to 60 miles per hour (96 kilometers per hour) is a time of approximately 3.6 seconds.
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The new AC Cobra GT Roadster allegedly uses an extruded aluminum chassis and carbon composite body panels. This arrangement reportedly keeps the vehicle’s weight under 3,307 pounds (1,500 kilograms). The wheelbase is 101.2 inches (2,570 millimeters), which the company says is the largest AC Cobra yet. The extra room should provide a bit more space for the two occupants.
AC Cars plans to limit production of the new Cobra GT. It intends to work with buyers to customize the vehicle to their taste. Unlike any of the original vehicles, customers can expect modern amenities such as air conditioning, electric windows and an infotainment system. A removable hardtop is also an option.
AC Cars won’t be announcing the full specifications of the Cobra GT until its launch in London in 2023. Pricing details should also arrive at that time. The announcement made no mention of North American availability. The company seems to be focusing on the UK and European markets.
The original AC Ace was launched in 1953 using a 2.0 liter inline six-cylinder engine. Then, adopting a 2.6-liter six-cylinder engine sourced from Ford. Carroll Shelby learned about the model and collaborated with the company on the body he used for his V8 powered Cobra. AC sells this model in Europe.
The next step for the Cobra appears to be electrification. Superformance company is working on a MkIII-E with an electric motor producing an impressive estimated 650 horsepower (485 kilowatts) and 1,500 pound-feet (2,034 Newton-meters). Motor1.com got to test drive a prototype and was impressed. Check out this video for a first-hand account.
