Currently reading: AC Cobra GT Coupe revealed with supercharged 799bhp V8

British-built reinterpretation of classic racer is made from carbonfibre, targeting sub-1450kg weight

Donington-based AC Cars has revealed a coupé version of the venerable Cobra, melding modern technology and production techniques with a historic silhouette.

The car is said to draw on the AC 298 coupé that competed in the 1964 Le Mans 24 Hours, taking inspiration from its raked Kamm tail. That car infamously hit 180mph when AC tested it on the M1 motorway, prompting a media furore that is often said to have resulted in the introduction of the national speed limit – although that is a myth.

The range-topping version of the new Cobra GT Coupé, called the Clubsport Edition, will pack a supercharged V8 that puts out 799bhp. A weight figure for the run of 99 special-edition cars has yet to be confirmed, but AC said it is targeting less than 1450kg. This is balanced 50:50 over the front and rear axles, the firm claims.

The Cobra GT Coupé will also be offered with a 720bhp version of the supercharged V8 and a naturally aspirated option with 450bhp.

All versions will be based on the same aluminium chassis as the AC Cobra GT roadster, with bodywork made from carbonfibre. 

Order books are open now and prices start at £325,000 (excluding VAT). The first Clubsport Edition cars will be delivered in late 2025, with regular versions following thereafter. All cars will be built in the UK.

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Charlie Martin

Charlie Martin Autocar
Title: Editorial assistant, Autocar

As part of Autocar’s news desk, Charlie plays a key role in the title’s coverage of new car launches and industry events. He’s also a regular contributor to its social media channels, providing videos for Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and Twitter.

Charlie joined Autocar in July 2022 after a nine-month stint as an apprentice with sister publication What Car?, during which he acquired his gold-standard NCTJ diploma with the Press Association.

Charlie is the proud owner of a Fiat Panda 100HP, which he swears to be the best car in the world. Until it breaks.

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Cersai Lannister 3 August 2024

I wonder if Autocar fancies putting a "probability score" or something to the daily influx of CGI supercars that pop up? Where the TVR Griffith is a 2/10 (rather than 1, simply because they built one) through to 10/10 likelihood for the latest Lambo, Bentley, R-R Moneygrabber special edition. 

This feels like a 6/10, it could happen but I'm far from convinced.