The AC Cobra GT Coupe Is A $320,500 Carbon-Fiber V8 Throwback

AC Cars has officially unveiled the production AC Cobra GT Coupe, which represents a new era for Britain's oldest active vehicle manufacturer. As the automaker marks its 125th anniversary, the new GT is the perfect way to crown the celebrations. It has an even more aggressive stance than the GT Roadster and backs it up with potent performance, especially in supercharged form. After the maker of the iconic Shelby Cobra was recently revived in the United States, this first physical unveiling of the production Cobra GT Coupe can soon be enjoyed by American fans, but they’ll have to have deep pockets.

A Cobra For The Modern Era

While the new Cobra GT Coupe has the retro profile that makes it instantly recognizable, there’s a much more sophisticated machine underneath. Based on the AC Cobra GT platform, the car features an extruded aluminum chassis and a body in full carbon fiber. These features allow for a weight of under 1,600 kg (3,527 pounds), while aiding agility and handling.

Much larger than the AC Cobra, the GT Coupe is still quite compact, with a length of just 166.3 inches—that makes it only slightly longer than a Kia Soul. Slightly heavier than the Roadster, the GT Coupe benefits from a lower drag coefficient and has an ideal 50:50 weight distribution. The grille shape and rounded headlights are classic AC Cobra, and the car incorporates the distinctive Kammtail. The silhouette is nothing like any other car, from the minuscule front overhang to the long hood, short doors, and aggressively broad rear fenders.

Both variants use a powerful V8 engine, which produces 450 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque in standard form. A supercharged version makes 720 hp and 605 lb-ft, which makes it capable of accelerating to 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds. Oddly, the brochure on the AC Cars U.S. site states outputs of 654 hp/575 lb-ft for the supercharged model, but with a similar 0-60 time. Purists will appreciate the availability of a six-speed manual, but a 10-speed automatic with shift paddles is on offer, too. 

Interior: Analog Tactility with Modern Conveniences

The intimate cabin mixes old and new to great effect. Although there is a digital display lower down in the center console, the interior is dominated by tactile and beautifully finished controls. Analog gauges are positioned in the center of the dash and lights are controlled by old-school buttons and switches. Another modern touch comes in the form of a digital driver’s display behind the steering wheel, but its design evokes classic dials.

Hand-finished leatherwork creates an inviting atmosphere, and the standard specification includes modern amenities like electric windows, climate control, and a navigation system. There are also visible carbon fiber inserts, and the company says customers will be able to choose from a variety of colors and leathers.

“The AC Cobra GT Coupe is unique in the history of AC Cars and, with production of the GT Roadster now underway, it shows the road ahead for the company as we build and deliver cars for existing customers,” said David Conza, CEO of AC Cars. “AC Cars continues to invest in its operations, and develop new partnerships.”

Conza confirmed the company’s plans to increase production from approximately 100 hand-built cars annually to over 1,000. 

Pricing and Availability

AC Cars America has listed the GT Coupe from $320,500, excluding taxes. That means the supercharged variant will carry an even higher cost. That’s a steep cost to entry and also more than the GT Roadster, which starts at $287,500. U.S. customers who are interested in one of these cars can head online to book a call with AC Cars America, with the next available slots being on June 1. This is the first step to take to acquire one of these sports cars, which will be built in extremely limited numbers when deliveries start in 2028.

The price of the new GT Coupe places it in the realm of exotics like the Aston Martin DB12 Volante or a well-optioned Ferrari Amalfi. This is tough company, but the Cobra doesn’t directly compete with anything else. It delivers a purer, more unfiltered driving experience than most European exotics, and Americans now have the opportunity to enjoy the company’s latest models. Those with upwards of $550,000 to spend can consider the AC GT SuperSport, of which just 25 will be built. It’s a monster with 1,025 hp and will test how much well-heeled fans in this market are willing to spend on a sports car from the brand.

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