A landmark moment for one of Britain’s most iconic automakers has arrived: the AC Cobra GT Roadster has officially entered production. The first client-bound vehicles have left AC Cars’ state-of-the-art facility, marking a new chapter for an iconic name that helped define the vintage muscle car era.
The AC Cobra GT Roadster represents the culmination of over six years of intensive development and a mega-cash investment. Designed from the ground up as a modern sports car, the Roadster retains the unmistakable spirit and style of the original Shelby Cobra, but reimagines it with cutting-edge materials, contemporary performance, modern color schemes, and drivability.
The AC Cobra, Reborn
The heart of the new AC Cobra GT is a 5.0-liter V8 engine paired with a new aluminum spaceframe chassis and a full carbon-fiber body—an approach that dramatically improves torsional rigidity and reduces weight. Unlike many retro-inspired vehicles, the Roadster was built from the outset as an open-top car, giving it the structural balance and driving dynamics worthy of the Cobra name.
This modern iteration blends heritage and high performance in equal measure. The design pays homage to the AC Cobras of the 1960s, while the performance and build quality are aimed squarely at today’s most demanding enthusiasts.
Limited Edition: A Nod To The Old Days Of Racing
The first 63 examples being delivered are part of a special Edition 63 series, a tribute to the AC Cobra’s class win at the 1963 24 Hours of Le Mans. Each Edition 63 Roadster is finished in a bespoke AC Blue livery and features a fully loaded spec. It’s a fitting tribute to the legacy of the Shelby Cobra, a car that has become synonymous with American power and British engineering finesse.
“This is a day to remember,” said AC Cars CEO David Conza. The completion of the first production AC Cobra GT Roadsters is a monumental achievement. I’m immensely proud of what the company has accomplished.”
Looking Ahead: The GT Coupe
Building on the momentum of the Roadster, AC Cars will soon launch the AC Cobra GT Coupe. Inspired in part by the 1964 AC A98 Le Mans race car, the Coupe will share its core engineering and performance DNA with the Roadster, while introducing a sleek hardtop profile and extended grand touring capabilities.
Both cars are fully road-legal and designed for global markets, meaning they are available in left- or right-hand drive. With significantly larger cabins than the original Cobra and modern ergonomics, the AC Cobra GT range is built for rowdy driving that you can do comfortably for a long time.
A Future for Vintage Muscle
The revival of the AC Cobra GT range signals a renaissance for one of the world’s oldest car brands. With heritage dating back to 1901, AC Cars has proven that a legendary name can evolve without losing its soul.
For enthusiasts seeking a modern take on the Shelby Cobra and the spirit of vintage muscle cars, the AC Cobra GT Roadster and Coupe have to be one of the best options out there.
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