The Revamped AC Ace: Reviving Heritage with a $225K Price Tag
In a thrilling revival of classic automotive history, AC Cars is rejuvenating one of its most cherished models, the AC Ace. Originally unveiled in 1953, the AC Ace made a name for itself as a light, agile sports car that not only performed exceptionally on the racetrack but also charmed enthusiasts on the road. With the shadows of innovations and modifications over the decades, AC Cars has decided to harken back to the legacy of the original. Underpinning this fresh chapter is a modern twist—the model now boasts a lightweight carbon fiber body and a vibrant 2.3-liter four-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine, making it both a tribute to its roots and a statement of contemporary engineering.
The AC Ace's journey began with its notable success at events like the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans. This iconic two-seater did not only prove its mettle on racetracks but also captured the imagination of driving purists. The addition of a Ford V8 engine, devised by the legendary Carroll Shelby, left an indelible mark on its reputation, and this legacy is now being revitalized for a new generation of car enthusiasts. However, instead of opting for the hulking V8 engines that became synonymous with the Cobra brand, the modern iteration is taking the road less traveled, featuring a sprightly turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder powerhouse.
The shift to a four-cylinder engine may leave some traditionalists scratching their heads, but it's worth noting that the 2.3-liter EcoBoost generates more than 300 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the new Ace can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.6 seconds, showcasing that the car's spirit remains undiminished despite its modern enhancements. The weight sits at around 2,400 pounds, creating an ideal power-to-weight ratio that translates into an exhilarating driving experience.
A Nod to Classic Design
The rebirth of the AC Ace serves as an homage to the original design ethos. The tribute extends beyond performance to aesthetics, with engineers meticulously crafting the car to maintain the timeless allure of its predecessor. The design features a classic look with subtle updates that appeal to modern sensibilities, such as a sleek overlay of carbon fiber that replaces traditional steel or aluminum panels.
By utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques, AC Cars has succeeded in crafting an exterior that harkens back to the Ace's roots, marrying classic form with cutting-edge materials. The tubular steel chassis complements the carbon fiber body, ensuring that the car is not just a pretty face but an agile performer as well. The Ace’s dimensions reflect the classic proportions while managing to evade the trends of modern bulky designs. It is precisely this nuanced combination that sets the AC Ace apart in a sea of retro-styled vehicles.
Pricing and Availability
The starting price for this nostalgia-infused piece of automotive art is $228,755, which includes the U.K.'s 20 percent sales tax. While sticker shock is understandable, potential customers are assured that they are not simply paying for classic aesthetics but also for the quality and performance delivered by modern engineering principles. Each purchase secures a uniquely numbered chassis, rendering the new AC Ace a true collectible that enthusiasts can cherish.
Orders for the new AC Ace models have already begun, with AC Cars eyeing a summer 2025 delivery scheduled to align with the 70th anniversary of the original Ace's competition debut. The excitement surrounding this milestone promises to unite fans of the brand and new collectors alike, as they anticipate the chance to get behind the wheel of a vehicle that embodies a century of automotive history.
A Classic Revived
As the dust settles on the revival of the AC Ace, it is imperative to recognize the homage being paid to one of England’s most distinguished sports cars. Combining the spirit of classic roadsters with the innovation of modern engineering, the new AC Ace connects the past with the future in a remarkable way. While some car manufacturers continue to succumb to the pressures of modernity by sacrificing their heritage, AC Cars has instead opted to leverage its storied past to create something genuinely new and exciting. Whether you're an enthusiast of the original models or a newcomer to the brand, the AC Ace represents a thrilling prospect for the future of sports cars.
So gear up and prepare yourself as the AC Ace's wheels prepare to roll once again, uniting generations of car enthusiasts in the love of speed, style, and automotive history.