AC - Auto Carriers logo

Auto Carriers, better known as AC, is a British car manufacturer that was founded in 1901 by John Weller and John Portwine. The company has a long and fascinating history, with a number of notable achievements and innovations over the years.

In the early days, AC produced a range of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles. However, the company is perhaps best known for its sports cars, which were produced from the 1920s to the 1960s. These cars were typically lightweight, nimble, and designed for performance, with many of them becoming popular among racing enthusiasts.

One of AC’s most famous sports cars was the AC Ace, which was introduced in 1953. The Ace was a sleek and stylish two-seater roadster, with a lightweight body and a powerful engine. The car was a popular choice among racing drivers, with many of them competing in events such as the Le Mans 24-hour race.

However, it was the AC Ace’s later evolution that would become one of the most iconic sports cars of all time. In 1961, AC was approached by Carroll Shelby, a former racing driver and car designer, with the idea of fitting the Ace with a powerful American V8 engine. The resulting car, known as the AC Cobra or Shelby Cobra, was a sensation, with its combination of British style and American muscle.

The AC Cobra was produced from 1962 to 1967, and is now considered one of the most desirable and collectible sports cars ever made. The car was powered by a range of engines, including a 4.2-liter Jaguar engine and a 7.0-liter Ford engine, which gave it incredible performance and a distinctive sound.

After the Cobra’s production ended, AC continued to produce sports cars, but struggled to find the same level of success. The company was sold to various owners over the years, and went through a number of ups and downs.

In 2000, AC was purchased by a group of enthusiasts who were determined to revive the brand. They introduced a new sports car, the AC Mk VI, which was based on the classic AC Ace design but featured modern engineering and technology. The Mk VI was well-received by critics and enthusiasts, but production was limited due to financial difficulties.

Today, AC continues to produce limited-edition sports cars, including the AC Cobra 378, which is a modern reimagining of the classic Cobra design. The car features a powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine and a lightweight aluminum body, and is hand-built in small numbers in the UK.

In conclusion, AC is a British car manufacturer with a rich history and a legacy of producing iconic sports cars. From the early days of motorcycle production to the legendary Cobra, AC has always been a company focused on performance and innovation. While the brand has had its ups and downs over the years, it remains a beloved and respected name in the world of sports cars.