Two new models in the 2020 AC Cobra range have been launched with new engine options – a four-cylinder petrol engine sourced from the latest Ford Mustang and an all new and purpose-designed full electric powertrain.

AC Cars (England) Ltd is launching a limited edition run of electric cars, the first ever to bear the AC marque. This model is called the ‘AC Cobra Series1 electric’ and just 58 cars will be made. The company says that the 58 number is a celebration of the 58 years since the production of the first AC Cobra.

The car will look identical to that first AC Cobra made in 1962 and will be based on the original car. The first car will have a similar ladder frame, adapted where necessary for the electric drive components, including batteries.

Power comes from a 54kWh battery pack and the Cobra will have 230kW of power, 500Nm of torque, a 0-100km/h time of 6.7 seconds and a range of 242km.

There are a number of upgrades for the electric car, including steering, brakes and so on – all designed to provide 2020 standards of ride and handling. The body will be constructed of high-grade composite and the car will have a traditional AC Cobra interior.

The car will be available in four colours: AC electric blue, AC electric black, AC electric white, and AC electric green.

Deliveries will start in the last quarter of 2020 and the suggested retail selling price will be £138,000 ($AU250,000) plus on-road charges.

The second new Cobra will be fitted with a 2.3-litre, 350bhp engine sourced from the Ford Mustang. Again, 58 units are to be built and the decent performance figures for what is to be known as the ‘Charter Edition’ will be a six-second 0-100km/h time, and torque of 440Nm.

Deliveries will also start in the last quarter of 2020 with a suggested retail price for the car to be £85,000 ($AU153,000).

Source: Motor Trader E-magazine (August 2020)

18 August 2020