Don’t call it a comeback! AC unveils new Cobra GT roadster

AC Cars released details and veiled images of its new Cobra GT roadster. The silhouette in the teaser images show the familiar roadster shape and Britain’s oldest active vehicle manufacturer is intending to produce the most advanced Cobra ever. This 3,000 lbs. roadster is going to be powered by Ford’s 5.0-liter V8 Coyote engine that produces a factory-rated 654 bhp. Consumers can opt for a 6-speed manual, or a 10-speed automatic transmission and the Cobra GT roadster is expected to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 3.8-seconds. A formal unveiling of the Cobra GT roadster is set for spring 2023.

The Cobra GT roadster is more of a grand tourer than its forefather and is designed for everyday use. This incarnation of the Cobra will have greater civility with air conditioning, electric windows, sophisticated in-car entertainment, and an optional removable hardtop. Icona Design Group and Cecomp Spa partnered to develop a chassis specifically for the Cobra GT roadster.

To keep us all on the same page a brief history lesson from AC Cars is in order:

AC Cars was an original partner in the Cobra project, and the manufacturer of all original AC Cobra chassis in the 1960s. Modifying the existing AC Ace, which had been altered to accommodate the 2.6-litre Ford Zephyr engine in early 1961 at the factory in Thames Ditton, the first chassis (CSX2000) was shipped to the United States 12 months later in 1962. 

Concrete details are minimal at this point, but AC Cars did provide some specs in its press release:

Engine: Ford 5.0 Coyote

Cylinders: 8

Transmission: 6-Speed manual /10-Speed automatic

Peak Power: 654 bhp

Peak Torque: 575 lb-ft

Length: 4,330 mm (14.2 feet)

Width: 1,960 mm (6.4 feet)

Height: 1,400 mm (4.6 feet)

Wheelbase: 2,570 mm (8.4 feet)

Frame: Extruded aluminum space frame

Curb Weight: 1,400 Kg (3,086 lbs.)

Top Speed: 278 Km/h (172 mph)

0-100 Km/h: 3.8s (0-62 mph)

If you are inclined to get your hands on the AC Cobra GT roadster there is a reservation process with paperwork and a £2,500 ($3,043) fee to hold your place in line.