The concept of Italian styling combined with American V8 horsepower was well established by the late 1960s and undoubtedly influenced AC Cars’ decision to reconfigure its fire-breathing Cobra sports car as a luxury Grande Routière. A Cobra MkIII coil-suspension chassis was lengthened in the wheelbase by 6 inches and sent to Italy to be clad in an elegant steel body by Pietro Frua. The result speaks for itself. The first car, a two-seater convertible, was completed in time for the 1965 Earls Court Motor Show, while an even more sensational fastback-style coupe was launched at the following year’s Geneva Salon. Although the 428ci (7.0-liter) Ford Galaxy engine produced less power than that of the Cobra 427, the 345 hp variant was able to deliver all the performance customers desired.

Despite the car’s weight of 1,416 kg, and not being hampered by the automatic transmission fitted to most cars, this astonishing engine enabled testers to achieve 0 to 100 km/h times in less than six seconds and times from 0 to 160 km/h in approximately 14.5 seconds. With a maximum speed of more than 140 km/h. Hampered by a high price – the 428 cost considerably more than the contemporary Aston Martin DB6 – production never reached Cobra levels; Only 81 were made between 1966 and 1973, with a split of approximately 51 coupes and only 30 convertibles. It is estimated that there are approximately 40 compartments left.

This example was first registered in June 1969 and is one of an estimated six examples built with a manual transmission. This copy is in a particularly original condition in its entirety. The exterior has been repainted once for cosmetic reasons, but the interior is still in a completely original condition and the leather is still wonderfully supple despite its age.

The sound of the AC is beautiful and the 428 engine is powerful and smooth. The gearbox is also pleasant and there are actually no unwanted noises to be heard. In other words, a contender for the ultimate cruiser.