Key Takeaways
- AC Automobiles reveals first-ever Cobra GT Coupe.
- Impressed by the Le Mans A98 racer, the high-performance Clubsport might be restricted to 99 models.
- The Clubsport variant might be powered by a 799-horsepower V8.
- Pricing to start out at £325,000 ($413,000).
AC Automobiles has previewed its new Cobra GT Coupe, a singular tackle the basic Cobra roadster recipe. That is formally the first-ever Cobra coupe to enter manufacturing and attracts inspiration from the corporate’s illustrious motorsport heritage.
As Britain’s oldest automaker, AC Automobiles plans to increase its choices, the Coupe is a good place to start out. Whereas it retains the unmistakable styling touches which have made the Cobra a agency favourite, the brand new roof is impressed by the A98 coupe that raced at Le Mans in 1964. To rejoice the arrival of this masterpiece, the automaker has shared some particulars concerning the upcoming Clubsport Version, which might be restricted to 99 models.
Stupendously Highly effective V8 For Clubsport Coupe
With a 799-hp V8, the Clubsport ought to be extremely quick. The automaker describes it as “excessive” and provides that it was “honed to excel on the monitor.” The primary of those autos might be delivered to clients on the finish of subsequent yr. Following the Clubsport, AC Automobiles will introduce a toned-down manufacturing coupe, with two engine choices. Each are highly effective, with the usually aspirated V8 model producing 450 hp. A supercharged model with 720 hp will even be supplied. The eight-cylinder engine will probably be borrowed from the Ford Mustang GT. These wanting an electrical Cobra should look elsewhere.
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Particulars stay scant, however AC Automobiles say the GT Coupe can have a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, with the Clubsport Version anticipated to weigh lower than 3,196 lbs. When it comes to dimensions, the coupe measures 166.3 inches lengthy, 77.9 inches huge, and has a 101.1-inch wheelbase.
“The reveal of the AC Cobra GT Coupe is a proud second for us, and the story of a road-going AC Cobra coupe is one years within the making. To have been in a position to mix the timeless AC Cobra design right into a automotive utilizing the most recent design and building methods breaks new floor for AC Automobiles. This implies the restricted Clubsport Version will present an unimaginable, racing car-like expertise on both the highway or the monitor.”
– David Conza, AC Automobiles CEO
Beautiful Styling Blends Basic And Fashionable Seamlessly
The styling is immediately recognizable, with the signature Cobra entrance fascia, a protracted, swooping hood, and bulging rear arches. The brand new roof works fantastically with the design, creating a contemporary tackle a sublime ’60s GT automotive. The rear finish is totally different, although, that includes the distinctive Kammtail that was utilized to the A98 coupe, as beforehand seen on the Ferrari 296 and, extra lately, the Aston Martin Valiant.
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Again within the ’60s, this design cue was used to spice up aerodynamic efficiency, permitting race automobiles to realize excessive prime speeds at occasions comparable to Le Mans. Primarily based on this, we are able to anticipate the GT Coupe to have an much more spectacular prime velocity than the roadster, which is able to 173 mph. As with its topless sibling, the coupe will probably be supplied with a six-speed guide or 10-speed computerized transmission. As for pricing, the hardtop will not come low cost: with a beginning worth of £325,000 ($413,000), this may stay an unique plaything for rich gearheads.