All-New 2023 AC Cobra GT Roadster Is A V8-Engined Modern Retro Sportscar

61 years after the original launched, a successor to the famed AC Cobra open-top, two-seat roadster has finally bowed. Introduced through a special presentation held late last week at the Totenham Hotspur Stadium is the new 2023 AC Cobra GT Roadster.

We’ll start with its heart, of which AC Cars has readied two options. The first is a ‘standard’ 5.0-litre Coyote V8 derived from the Ford Mustang, rated at 454 HP and 570 NM. Next to it is a supercharged version offered exclusively in the flagship variant, which serves up more manic figures of 654 HP and 780 NM instead.

New 2023 AC Cobra GT Roadster features a 5.0-litre V8 heart derived from the Ford Mustang, offering 454 HP or 654 HP when supercharged.

Like the original, drive goes to the rear wheels exclusively, and AC Cars have also readied two transmission options. Buyers can opt between a traditional 6-speed manual, or a 10-speed automatic unit instead, the latter offering steering-mounted paddle-shifters too.

The flagship supercharged variant can despatch 0-60 MPH (96 KM/H) in just 3.4 seconds, according to the British brand, which recently shifted its base to a new facility located near the famed Donington Park circuit. Key to this besides the stonking V8 powerplant is the Cobra GT Roadster’s claimed 1,450 KG kerb weight.

Besides an extruded aluminium chassis construction, the Cobra GT roadster features carbon fibre bodywork plus modern LED lighting and alloy wheels.

Much of this lightness stems from the Cobra GT Roadster’s heavy use of lightweight materials in its construction. Key to which includes extruded aluminium to construct its new chassis, as well as carbon fibre and composites used to craft its stylish retro bodywork.

In terms of design, the AC Cobra GT Roadster takes much inspiration from its original predecessor, albeit with slightly larger proportions. It has also been brought into the modern age through the adoption of both LED lighting and larger alloy wheels.

Classic round dials and three-spoke steering wheel design remains.

In terms of size, the new Cobra GT Roadster has grown in size, now sitting 110 MM longer than its AC Cobra Mk. IV predecessor with a 284 MM longer wheelbase of 2,570 MM too. This also means the cabin can now accommodate drivers and passengers over six feet tall.

The cabin of this two-seat roadster is also all-new, featuring a dash laced with classic styled round gauges and three-spoke steering wheel. Modern bits here include push-start ignition button with a red safety flap a la most modern Lamborghinis, as well as a small digital central infotainment screen.

Compared to the AC Cobra Mk. IV, the new Cobra GT Roadster sits 110 MM longer with 284 MM longer wheelbase.

“Our goal was to surpass the expectations of our esteemed clientele, who have grown accustomed to the finest in automotive luxury,” said AC Cars chief executive David Conza after the premiering the new roadster late last week.

In term sof price and availability, the new 2023 AC Cobra GT Roadster will be both pricey and somewhat rare. AC plans to build just 250 examples for sale annually, each commanding a starting price tag of £285,000 (approx. RM1.6 milllion).