Peter Lyon
August 3, 2024
When you say AC Cars, many enthusiasts think of the legendary ‘Cobra 427’ powered by a 7.0-liter Ford V8. Many movie fans may remember the epic chase scene between a Cobra and a Porsche 911 in the hit flick ‘Bad Boys’ starring Will Smith over 20 years ago. For those who haven’t seen the movie yet—a spoiler—the Cobra lost.
Now, there is an all-new model built in Britain and it packs a rather healthy 799 hp.
The venerable Cobra now has a new coupé variant that combines cutting-edge production methods and technology with a classic design, according to Donington-based AC Cars.
The vehicle is inspired by the raked Kamm tail of the 1964 Le Mans 24 Hours-winning AC 298 coupé and caused a stir in the media when AC tested it on the M1 freeway. That car was said to have reached 180mph when tested on the M1 freeway in the UK, prompting a media frenzy that is said to have led to the introduction of the national speed limit. Rest assured though—that is merely a myth.
The new Cobra GT Coupé’s flagship model, the Clubsport Edition, will boast a 799-horsepower supercharged V8 engine and without electrification. Although the weight of the 99 special-edition cars has not yet been determined, AC stated that it aims for less than 1450 kg, which is reportedly distributed evenly between front and rear axles.
Additionally, a naturally aspirated variant with 450 horsepower and a supercharged V8 with 720 horsepower will also be available for the Cobra GT Coupé. All models will share the same carbon fiber bodywork and aluminum chassis as the AC Cobra GT roadster.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Who knew that Cobra would return with a beast even more powerful and outrageous than the original? Boasting a modern interpretation of a classic design, the new Cobra is one good-looking machine—and has the performance to match. No one can argue with a 799 hp V8. The car is now open for bookings with prices starting at £325,000 or around $416,000. Regular versions will be delivered after the initial Clubsport Edition cars, which are scheduled for delivery in late 2025. Every vehicle will be produced in the UK.
