AC Cars, once a dormant legend in the automotive world, is undergoing a thrilling resurgence under the stewardship of David Conza. The Swiss entrepreneur’s acquisition of the company in 2022 ignited a spark that is now illuminating the brand’s future. A pivotal moment in this revival is the forthcoming AC Cobra GT Coupe, a daring departure from the open-topped heritage that has defined AC Cars for decades.
Inspired by the enigmatic AC Cobra A98 Coupé, this new model promises to retain the core proportions of the celebrated Cobra GT Roadster while introducing a sleek, fastback silhouette. The incorporation of a Kamm tail design hints at the coupe’s aerodynamic prowess, a departure from the raw, wind-in-the-hair experience of its roadster sibling.
While the final dimensions remain shrouded in secrecy, early renderings suggest a vehicle that is as visually striking as it is technically advanced. With the Cobra GT Coupe, AC Cars is not merely resurrecting a storied nameplate but crafting a modern interpretation of automotive excellence that pays homage to the past while boldly embracing the future.
AC Cars is set to revive the iconic Cobra name with the GT Coupe, a modern interpretation built upon a carbon fiber body and aluminum chassis framework. While this construction method promises exceptional rigidity and weight savings, the Coupe’s mass is anticipated to be notably higher than its legendary predecessor.
Factors such as contemporary safety regulations and the likely inclusion of a powerful V8 engine are contributing to this increase. The upcoming Clubsport Edition, a limited-run performance variant, will be the first Cobra GT Coupe to reach the market. Targeting a weight of around 1,450 kg, this model represents a significant departure from the lightweight ethos of the original Cobra.
Although far from featherlight, the Clubsport Edition is expected to prioritize performance with potential structural reinforcements and aerodynamic enhancements. AC Cars has confirmed that the full weight and structural details of both the Clubsport and standard Coupe models will be revealed closer to their respective production timelines, with the Clubsport Edition slated for late 2025 and the standard Coupe following shortly after.
AC Cars is set to offer a range of V8 powerplants across its Cobra GT lineup. The pinnacle of performance arrives in the Clubsport Edition, equipped with a 5-liter supercharged V8 generating an impressive 810 PS (799 hp). This engine represents a heightened version of the unit found in the Cobra GT Roadster, with increased boost and internal reinforcements to handle the substantial power increase.
The standard Cobra GT Coupe will be available with two V8 options: a naturally aspirated engine producing 456 PS (450 hp) for the base model, and a supercharged variant delivering 730 PS (720 hp). While AC Cars mentions engine evolution compared to the Roadster, it remains unclear if this pertains to power output beyond the supercharged model.