AC Cobra 378 MkIV 1965-1967 Photos, engines & full specs

The original AC Ace was introduced by AC in 1953 and became one of the best-known British roadsters in the world, with an American heart.

There are not too many cars in the world that could show the same motorsport pedigree as the AC Ace. That roadster mainly was known as AC Cobra after Carroll Shelby's involvement in producing V-8 powered British roadsters in the U.S.

For any petrolhead, an AC Ace doesn't need a badge to be recognized. Its round headlights and rounded shapes were unique. There was no roof, no B-pillars, and no fancy aerodynamic package with big wings or spoilers around. Surprisingly, it had doors but no door-handles. Unlike any other modern supercar, it sported the same chromed "horns" used as the front bumper. In the back, it used similar round lamps as the original 1958 AC Ace. But most importantly, the carbon-fiber bodywork was lighter than the original aluminum one. It was made into a modern factory in South Africa, with very narrow panel gaps.

Inside, two leather-clad bucket-seats were separated by a tall center console, which covered the transmission tunnel. The 2020 AC Cobra Mk IV featured a flat dash panel with most of the gauges installed in the middle. The carmaker mounted only the speedometer and tachometer in front of the driver. A three-spoke steering wheel without any airbag was the only option available. At least, the car had seatbelts.

While the original AC Cobra featured a 427 Ford V-8 engine, the revived AC Mk IV was powered by a 6.2-liter GM engine paired to a six-speed manual transmission. Unofficial figures stated a four-second time for 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 kph) and ten seconds flat for 0-100 mph (0-168 kph).