AC Cobra Driving Experiences

The AC Cobra is the result of an extraordinary collaboration between the heritage car manufacturer AC Cars in the UK and Shelby Racing in the US, launching one of the most iconic sports cars of all time. Introduced in 1962, the Cobra was crafted with precision across two continents, with production spanning the plants in Thames Ditton, Surrey, and Los Angeles, California.

Backed by Ford, who aimed to rival Chevrolet's Corvette in the performance car market, the AC Cobra marked a groundbreaking shift for AC Cars. It was their first model to feature a lightweight small-block V8 engine, replacing the straight-6 engines that had powered their earlier cars. This partnership didn’t just create a car; it sparked a revolution in design, aerodynamics, and power that set a new benchmark for sports cars worldwide.

The Cobra’s performance remains legendary. Its roaring V8 engine delivers a staggering 485 bhp, rocketing from 0-60 mph in less than 5 seconds and reaching 0-100 mph in just 10.2 seconds. With a top speed of 160 mph, this car is as thrilling to drive as it is to admire. From its sleek, lightweight body to its exhilarating handling, the Cobra is an experience every car enthusiast should have.

But if the Shelby excites you, there’s plenty more to explore. The Shelby's variant, the Ford Eleanor Shelby Mustang, was another legendary creation. And if classic muscle cars are your thing, we offer an array of incredible Muscle Car Experiences to fuel your passion.

Such was the popularity of the AC Cobra, that AC Cars subsequently produced a version of the car for use in the popular American motorsport of drag racing in 1963. The model, called the Dragon Snake, went on to win several NHRA National events, with Bruce Larson and Ed Hardrick racing them to pole position.

Another version of the Cobra, called the Shelby Daytona Coupe, was produced in 1964, for a run of six models, to compete in the world famous 24 Hours of Le Mans race. It came second in the Grand Tourer category that same year.