by AC unveils the first production Cobra coupe, inspired by the legendary A98 Le Mans race car
AC has officially unveiled the long-awaited fixed-roof version of the Cobra — the Cobra GT Coupe model. This is not just another restomod, but a true production car that embodies the spirit of the classic in a modern execution.
A new chapter in the legend’s history
Over the decades, the Cobra has taken on countless forms: from extremely widened metal bodies to carbon fiber shells. In the 1960s, there was even a removable hardtop. However, a true production coupe with the classic face remained a curious gap in the model’s family tree.
Now that changes with the arrival of the Cobra GT Coupe, which has transformed from digital renders in 2024 into a real car in 2026. It joins the GT Roadster as part of AC’s ambitious program to modernize one of the most famous British sports cars, aiming to increase production from 100 to 1,000 cars per year.
Related: Retro supercar from AC hits like a hypercar and costs like a Ferrari
Design inspired by racing heritage
Instead of drawing inspiration from the legendary Shelby Daytona Cobra coupe, AC continues to look back at its own lesser-known hero — the A98 Le Mans race car from 1964. This influence is evident in the smooth roofline, pronounced rear fenders, and the characteristic Kammtail rear cut, which improves aerodynamic efficiency while retaining most of the styling elements that make the car recognizable as a Cobra.
Technical foundation and chassis
Under the body, the coupe shares approximately three-quarters of its engineering with the roadster. An extruded aluminum space frame sits beneath a full carbon fiber body, helping to keep the weight below 1,600 kg, despite significantly larger dimensions compared to the original 1962 Cobra.
Powertrains: from classic to powerful
Power comes from the familiar Ford Coyote 5.0-liter V8 engine, available in two versions. Buyers can choose the naturally aspirated variant with 450 hp (456 PS) and 555 Nm of torque, or the supercharged version producing 720 hp (730 PS) and 820 Nm of torque. According to AC, the supercharged version can accelerate from 0 to 97 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds.
Six or ten speeds?
A six-speed manual gearbox remains available for purists, while the automatic transmission serves those who prefer automated shifting. We would choose the manual, but with 10 speeds and paddle shifters, the automatic will be far better than the three-speed “slushbox” of the 1960s Cobra.
A grand tourer, not a track monster
Unlike some retro-inspired sports cars, the GT Coupe is not designed as a lightweight track special. AC describes it as a true grand tourer with ample space for tall passengers, a modern infotainment system, climate control, and extensive personalization options. Something like a Morgan, but significantly more expensive.
Price, production, and a long wait
Prices start from £234,300 (approximately $314,200) before taxes for the naturally aspirated version and rise to £256,300 (approximately $343,700) before taxes for the supercharged version. The base price of the coupe exceeds the cost of two new Porsche 911 Carreras in the UK, where the 911 starts from £103,700 ($139,400) including VAT.
Production will be extremely limited, and customers will have to wait: first deliveries are scheduled for 2028 after fulfilling orders for the GT Roadster. Do you like the modernized Cobra from AC?
AC
Thus, the AC Cobra GT Coupe becomes not just a tribute to the past, but a bold step into the future, combining classic style with modern technology and power. Given the limited production run and high price, this car will undoubtedly become a coveted piece for collectors who appreciate rare blends of history and innovation. However, the long wait until 2028 may test the patience of the most eager enthusiasts dreaming of a modern interpretation of the legendary sports car.
