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AC Cobra GT Roadster: High-end updated classic runabout --- very limited

AC Cobra GT Roadster. [All images courtesy of AC Cars]

 

 

Live out your 1960s Shelby Cobra-ish fantasy with a newly built Cobra GT Roadster from AC Cars in the UK. The sporty two-seater will be built in very limited quantities in standard V8 and supercharged V8 versions -- with a GT coupe model in the works too. The Cobra GT Roadster made its U.S. debut at the upscale ModaMiami car show February 27 - March 1.

AC Cars bills itself as "Britain's oldest active vehicle manufacturer" specializing in hand-crafted sportscars in small batches. The relaunch of the AC Cobra GT Roadster will be a real test for the bespoke shop, with 250 vehicles scheduled for sale each year. There are not a ton of details, but here is what we know so far.

The rear-wheel-drive AC Cobra GT Roadster will be available in both left- and right-hand drive with power steering. According to Road & Track, "A 5.0-liter Coyote V8 -- with or without a supercharger -- are your engine options, providing between 454 hp and 663 hp depending on the blower's presence or absence. A Tremec-sourced six-speed manual or Ford's 10-speed automatic gearboxes are on offer to send that power to the rear wheels."

AC Cars says the supercharged GT Roadster is capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 sec. Top speed is 172 mph.

Significantly larger than the original AC Cobra, the new car features a clean-sheet design and novel extruded aluminum spaceframe chassis designed specifically for an open-top car. It has a wheelbase of 101 in. and an overall length of just over 166 in. It has carbon-composite bodywork (that itself weighs just over 110 lb) and will incorporate modern safety features. The curb weight is just under 3,200 lb.

AC Cobra GT Roadster all-aluminum chassis. [All images courtesy of AC Cars]

 

 

AC Cars says, "The car's track has also been optimized to give a wider stance, which, along with the car's weight distribution and center of gravity, drastically benefits handling and agility." It has 6-piston calipers and 394-mm steel hybrid brake discs at the front and 4-piston calipers and 378-mm steel hybrid brake discs at the rear. It uses custom 21-in. rims developed specifically for the car and rides on Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. It has a floor-mounted Tilton racing pedal box.

The Roadster has four vehicle modes and three steering modes. It also has stability control and ABS systems. It is equipped with a friction limited slip differential, but an optional Torsen LSD will be available.

A focus on thoroughly modern ergonomics means the car's cabin accommodates drivers well over six feet tall, while the car utilizes modern drivetrain and control technologies "to validate its grand tourer credentials."

The cabin features bespoke details and unique hand-finished elements, mixing up lots of traditional switches and dials with hints of modernity. It boasts a 10.25-in. touchscreen display and kickin' stereo system. The design and detailing of the GT Roadster's leatherwork and upholstery carefully blends advanced and highly resilient fabrics with traditional materials, all with a careful respect for the car's heritage.

The new AC Cobra GT Roadster is available to order for clients worldwide, with deliveries expected to start in 2026. The GT Roadster starts at $252,140 (UK pricing, not including delivery).

A coupe version was also recently announced. Now this looks extra cool.

AC Cobra GT Coupe.

 

 

Learn more at https://ac.cars/ac-cobra-gt-roadster/.

Source: AC Cars

Published March 2025

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