AC Cobra GT Roadster

A thundering V8 heart beats within a carbon-composite body, marking the return of Britain’s most fearsome roadster. The 2023 AC Cobra GT brings the iconic snake into the modern era, trading aluminum sheets for advanced composites while maintaining its predecessor’s raw character.

Thames Ditton’s latest creation proves that evolution doesn’t mean losing your soul. This reimagined Cobra pairs brutal acceleration with precision engineering, delivering an experience that both honors and advances Carroll Shelby’s original vision.

Raw Numbers That Tell Only Half the Story

The Cobra GT’s spec sheet reads like a supercar manifesto. Ford’s 5.0-liter Coyote V8 comes in two flavors: a 460-horsepower naturally aspirated version for purists, and a supercharged 663-horsepower monster that channels the spirit of the original 427.

Both engines mate to either a six-speed manual or a ten-speed automatic transmission, though true enthusiasts will gravitate toward the former. The manual’s short throws and mechanical precision forge a vital connection between driver and machine.

“I’ve driven most modern sports cars, but nothing quite prepares you for the Cobra GT’s immediacy. The throttle response is telepathic, and the power delivery is simply savage.” — James Harrison, Track Day Instructor

The chassis feels alive beneath you, responding to throttle inputs with an eagerness that belies its impressive capabilities. While electronics keep watch, they never fully tame the beast within.

Engineering Evolution

The extruded aluminum chassis provides a rigid foundation for the carbon-composite body panels. This combination yields a relatively light 1,300kg curb weight for the naturally aspirated version, rising to 1,400kg for the supercharged variant.

Following critical aspects define the GT’s engineering approach:

• torsional rigidity exceeding that of many modern supercars;
• perfect 50:50 weight distribution for neutral handling;
• advanced aerodynamic elements integrated into the classic shape;
• fully adjustable double-wishbone suspension at all corners;
• carbon-ceramic brakes with six-piston front calipers.

This technical foundation transforms the Cobra from a pure muscle car into a precision instrument.

Beyond the Numbers

The Cobra GT transcends simple performance metrics. Each component works in harmony to create something greater than the sum of its parts. The steering offers perfect weight and feedback, while the brakes provide exceptional feel and modulation.

“After testing the GT on both road and track, I’m convinced AC Cars has created something special. It’s not just fast – it’s involving in a way few modern cars manage.” — Sarah Mitchell, Automotive Journalist

Four driving modes – Street, Track, Race, and Wet – alter the car’s character dramatically. Each mode adjusts throttle response, stability control intervention, and exhaust note to match conditions and driver preference.

Market Position and Heritage

AC Cars positions the GT Roadster in rare air, with a base price of £285,000. Limited production of 250 units annually ensures exclusivity, while modern amenities like climate control and a 10.25-inch touchscreen make it suitable for regular use.

The company balances several key factors:

• maintaining the Cobra’s raw character while meeting modern safety standards;
• preserving exclusivity through limited production;
• offering modern convenience features without diluting the driving experience;
• providing both track capability and road usability.

This careful balance positions the GT as a unique proposition in today’s market.

The Future of Legacy

The AC Cobra GT Roadster represents more than just another high-performance sports car. It demonstrates how classic automotive icons can evolve without losing their essential character. Each element serves a purpose, creating a cohesive whole that honors its heritage while embracing the future.