AC Cobra 427 Roadster (1966)

Despite the 289 Cobra proving to be immensely successful during its racing career, the original Ford 289 V8 reached its limit of reliability at just under 400 horsepower. At the 1963 Nassau Speed Week competition Corvettes were lapping more than nine seconds quicker than the small block Cobras. It was the suggestion of Shelby's leading driver and race engineer, Ken Miles to install an even bigger engine into the petite Cobra.

Initial plans chose the Ford 390 FE V8 with an alloy block, however a switch to Ford's heavier cast iron 427 block was initiated by resistance from the Nascar division. Despite proven reliability at much higher horsepower figures the block was heavier causing a well needed redesign of the cobra chassis. To ensure the Cobra offered the complete package and with help from Ford's own engineering department the chassis was widened by 5 inches and suspension redesigned to house a far more modern coil spring and fully independent design all round.

Reliable at over 500 horsepower the new 427 proved to be immensely quick even by today's standards! Due to homologation issues the 427 was only to be raced by privateers. However, that did not hamper the ever growing competition record of the Cobras.

This genuine LHD example chassis number "COB5008" is the very last of 10 perfect continuations sanctioned by and built under the supervision of AC Cars Ltd between 1990 and 2003. Using the original 1960's AC Thames Ditton Factory jigs and bucks, the aluminium bodies were hand built using the original techniques. All major mechanical components installed in the cars were period items which were individually researched and sourced. In addition the cars were given in sequence "COB" chassis numbers, correctly UK registered as a 1966 'Historic Vehicle' and can be eligible for HTP papers with minimal adjustments.

Commissioned in 2003 as the last of the run, this 427 was specified with a number of highly desirable options including an 8 Litre stroked engine, aluminium heads, 'Top-Loader' Rug gearbox and Hurst shifter. After completion the car was sold to ex Formula 1 and Le Mans driver Derek Warwick who owned the car for a number of years covering using the car sparingly.

In 2014 it was purchased by its current owner showing less than 2,000 Miles from new and it has since been cared for with his typical fastidious approach to maintenance ensuring the car is in concours condition at all times.

In January 2018 it received a comprehensive service including a full brake system overhaul and has since covered less than 30 Miles. Today this exceptional Cobra has covered under 3,950 Miles from new and is accompanied by fully trimmed wet weather equipment in tailored bags.
Presented with full UK registration, this 427 is ready to be used and enjoyed immediately and is located for viewing, by appointment only, at our showrooms just outside London.