Dore & Rees
Dore & Rees, Auction Salerooms, Vicarage Street, Frome
BA11 1PU
1955 AC Aceca Coupe For Sale by Auction
Chassis Number: AE513
Registration Number: VWJ 154
- Matching numbers engine/ gearbox
- Previous owner for 42 years
- Much recent restoration work
The success of Cliff Davis' Tojeiro sports-racer prompted AC Cars to put the design into production in 1954 as the Ace. The Davis car's pretty Ferrari 166-inspired barchetta bodywork was retained, as was John Tojeiro's twin-tube ladder frame chassis and Cooper-influenced all-independent suspension, while the power unit was AC's own venerable, 2. 0-litre, long-stroke six. This overhead-camshaft engine originated in 1919 and with a modest 80bhp (later 100bhp) on tap, endowed the Ace with respectable, if not outstanding, performance. A hardtop version - the fastback-styled Aceca coupé - debuted at the Earls Court Motor Show in 1954. The Aceca's hatchback body was constructed in hand-formed aluminium over a tubular steel framework, while the tubular chassis was more substantially built than the Ace's. To reduce noise levels within the cabin, AC mounted all major components on rubber bushes. The result was a well-engineered, light in weight and extremely pretty GT car in the best AC tradition.
Very few alterations were made to the Ace and Aceca apart from a change of engine for 1956 when the more powerful (up to 130bhp) 2. 0-litre Bristol six-cylinder engine became available, while towards the end of production the 2. 6-litre Ford Zephyr engine was on offer also. The Bristol six was based on that of the pre-war BMW 328, which featured an ingenious cylinder head, designed by Rudolf Schleicher, incorporating hemispherical combustion chambers and inclined valves without recourse to overhead, or twin, camshafts. Instead, the earlier BMW Type 319 engine's single block-mounted camshaft and pushrod valve actuation were retained, thus avoiding an expensive redesign. Two rocker shafts were employed, one situated above each bank of valves, giving the engine an external appearance almost indistinguishable from that of a twin-overhead-cam design. Downdraft inlet ports contributed to the motor's deep breathing, and its tune-ability made it a popular choice for British racing car constructors, most notably Cooper, during the 1950s. Externally, Bristol's clone of the BMW motor differed little from the German original, the most obvious difference being the adoption of SU, rather than Solex, carburettors part way through production. The most significant changes made by the Bristol designers were metallurgical, their utilisation of the highest quality materials contributing to greatly increased engine life. The combination of a fine-handling chassis and a decent power-to-weight ratio, helped the Ace to numerous successes in production sports car racing, arguably its finest achievement being a 1st-in-class and 7th overall finish at Le Mans in 1959.
This lovely early and very original matching numbers Aceca was first registered on 27th October 1955, fitted with the AC straight six engine and triple SU carburettors, and finished in Guardsman Blue with a matching blue leather interior. In previous long term storage for 42 years, the Aceca benefitted from a comprehensive engine rebuild before being acquired by a family friend, a lifelong classic car collector and member of the VSCC, who has undertaken further cosmetic restoration works to complete the AC to the standard you see here.
The previous paintwork was stripped back to bare metal, and the car finished back to its original shade of blue metallic. The bodywork and chassis were in remarkably well preserved condition, the coachwork requiring only preparation before being refinished. The wiring was renewed throughout, and all exterior chromework and fittings placed back on the car. New Lucas 100S lights were added, notably though all other glasswork is original, as are the door frames. The original seats are in very good order so were reinstalled alongside new carpets trimmed with the correct edging. Sitting on rebuilt 16” wire wheels (to the correct early pattern type and attached with the original AC spinners), the AC retains its drum brakes on each corner, and all suspension components. More recently the Aceca has enjoyed a tune up and general service, and we are sure with only a light amount of further preparation this will be a very rewarding car to own, drive, and possibly rally.
This wonderful early and matching number example is Mille Miglia eligible, and offered with the original buff logbook and current V5C.
This car will be sold at auction with Dore & Rees in Frome, Somerset, on Saturday 12th February. For more details contact the Motoring Department via the above details.
Estimate: £70, 000 - £80, 000
This advert has now been removed through sale or otherwise.
Please see the list below for similar live adverts.
Similar Adverts
Shelby Cobra replica by Factory Five Racing, Mk III model fitted with a 5.0L 302. Stunning silver paint job which the previous owner spent a great deal to achieve his desired 'show car' finish. Contrasting grey stripes with matching dual roll bars. The odometer shows just 9194 US miles. Ford 302 5.0 Mustang motor fitted ...
- 9,194
- 26 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
Dax 427 cobra 1995,registered 1971 (j) Historic (tax exempt ) 427 cu in big block ford v8 (6994 cc ) 4 speed toploader Mccleod hydrolic clutch,15 inch halibrands with period look correct Avon tyres and spinners woodrimmed steering wheel Great paintwork in dark bmw blue with white vynal stripes (can be removed ...
- 18,000
- 26 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
This truly outstanding AC Aceca is one of the 169 fitted with the highly desirable six cylinder Bristol engine, and one of just 89 home market UK RHD examples. This matching numbers example left the Thames Ditton factory in October 1958 with disc brakes, overdrive and was registered UBR 135. According to the factory records, ...
- 26 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
Very nice gardner douglas v8 rover 220hp gearbox 5 exceptional condition from 1991 Certificate manufacturer sign historic vehicle number: 0027 Eligible cg f collection Int leather new soft top instr smith Very nice car left hand drive rare For info contact him 0033782120249<br><br>
- 12,500
- 25 Jan 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
1957 AC ACE - AC 6CYL ENGINE - CHASSIS AE220. £245,000 A unique opportunity to acquire probably the best AC engined Ace available. Amazing history. Lovingly restored to exacting marque standards by industry experts Mille Miglia eligible. Next race June 11-15 2024. FIVA ID Card & Papers AE220 ...
- 9 Feb 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
AK Sportcars Cobra ?Powered by Ford? This stunning AK Cobra is correctly registered 01/01/2001. Finished in superb Nightfire red with red Ghost stripes. Removable fastback Hardtop by 427Hardtops. Beautifully detailed with chrome bumpers, AC badges, P700 headlamps, classic chrome racing mirrors, wind deflectors, ...
- 25 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
Competitive & Eligible 1964 AC Cobra 289 to FIA App K. Assembled for Chris Browning, then AC Owners Club Parts Convenor by EGAutokraft (Emilio Garcia) in the late 1970?s/early 1980?s using period parts/new parts to original specifications. Subsequently race prepared by well known preparer Roger Dowson in 2000 and ...
- 20 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
. Original gearbox with A-Type overdrive. . Fitted with a Bristol magnesium gearbox remote lever. . Original jack and toolkit. . Brake servo fitted. The AC Greyhound was introduced at 1959 London Motor Show. It was the second Coupe based on the Ace Roadster but offered 2 + 2 seating. Like the Aceca’s, the ...
- 77,380
- 6 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
This stunning Dax Tojeiro 427 Cobra is sadly up for sale due to the recent sad passing of its dedicated owner of 22 years. The owner was a friend of mine and his family have asked me to find a new owner for this fantastic car. The first owner and builder of the car ordered it from Dax Tojeiro in early 1997 and completed ...
- 21,800
- 29 Feb 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
During the 1950?s AC enlisted the aid of genius race chassis designer John Tojeiro in creating a sports car to boost sales of the AC marque. His subsequent creation was the Ace which appeared at Earls Court in 1953 with its tubular ladder type chassis with all round independent suspension by traverse springs ? the first ...
- 24 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
AC Cobra MK IV ‘Short Nose’ Year of manufacture 1986 Date of First Registration: 10/04/1986 Chassis Number: AK1147 Mileage: 40.000 The MK IV Cobra was manufactured by AC/Autokraft at Brooklands Motor Circuit. This particular left hand drive example, was supplied new to Mr Fayer Bayzid during 1986 to the ...
- 23 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
AC COBRA 5.0 PILGRIM Replica 1989 Current owner's description: Pilgrim Replica AC Cobra 1966, km. 6,900km. Year 30/10/1989 The undercarriage is powder coated with no damage or rust. Disc brakes all round. The engine is a completely rebuilt (receipts available) 71 Ford 302 cui(5L) V8 small block with Edelbrock manifold, ...
- 6,900
- 5 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
AC COBRA DAYTONA 1965 BODYWORK ALUMINIUM PTH FRENCH REGISTRATION DETAILS ON REQUEST<br><br>
- 1,000
- 23 Feb 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
VIEWINGS ARE STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT ONLY ON A 1-1 BASIS SO PLEASE TELEPHONE ME TO MAKE THE APPOINTMENT TO VIEW THIS OUTSTANDING CAR,PART EXCHANGE WELCOMED,ANYTHING CONSIDERED BMW,MERCEDES,AUDI,ASTON MARTIN,FAST FORDS AND ALL CLASSICS,PLEASE TRY ME,SERIOUS STRAIGHT OUTRIGHT PURCHASE OFFERS CONSIDERED,CALL MARK ON 07423 ...
- 8,000
- 23 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
We are delighted to offer for sale this rare curved Windscreen AC Ace – Bristol. Finished in British Racing Green with Black leather interior, 2.0 ltr Bristol 100D2 engine with triple Solex Carburettors, 4 speed manual gearbox with overdrive, matching chassis & engine number, 16″ wire wheels supplied new by MWS ...
- 71,060
- 22 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
The car is a Kirkham Motorsport vehicle, completed and finished by Gerry Hawkridge, at Hawk Cars, and was their demonstrator for many years. It has a Full alloy body, per original with steel 4inch tube chassis, if you are not familiar with them, they are a part for part perfect reproduction of the original. It is eligible ...
- 5,000
- 19 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
I am offering my KCC Cobra, which is powered by a brutal 8.2ltr Chevy BigBlock engine via a 5-speed Tremec gearbox. (Both usually designed for drag racing) The performance data of 540hp and 768NM at 850kg net weight equate the acceleration to a ride on a cannonball. There is more than enough power in every gear. (You ...
- 35,750
- 22 Feb 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
L591 was first registered on the 1st of March 1938 and is said to have lived its early life just off of Cadogan Square in Knightsbridge. The car eventually turned up in the Bristol area in 1976, this is when Mr Cadogan (fittingly named!) purchased it in desperate need of restoration. Over the next 8 years, it was restored ...
- 22 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
289 FIA Cobra by Hawk This absolutely amazing 289 FIA bodied Cobra by HAWK has just been built and correctly SVA/IVA registered 01/07/2023 and has only covered 17 test miles . ULEZ Compliant Spec includes a removeable Le-mans hard top built to original specs including removeable roof fuel filler and split boot. Detailed ...
- 40
- 22 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
H&H Classic Auction @Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire 24th of April, 2024 13:00 1926 AC Six Aceca Tourer In current ownership for 30 years Estimate £10,000 - £14,000 Registration No: YP 3916 Chassis No: 12651 MOT: Exempt In current ownership for some thirty years Two-seater coachwork with dickie ...
- 21 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
AC Ace by Hawk This beautiful classic Hawk Ace was correctly SVA/IVA registered 01/04/2017 ULEZ Complient Only 50 recorded miles from new ! Finished in classic old English white coachwork Detailed with chrome front over riders , Aluminium front grill, Ace badge, Stainless steel wipers, Wind deflectors, ...
- 50
- 21 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
-The Final ‘EF’ Prefix Cobra/428 Chassis to leave the factory, and only example with fitted engine and gearbox. -Clothed in the original aluminium coachwork of the Prototype Allard J2X -UK Road Registered. The Allard and AC/Shelby story shares many similarities, albeit over a decade apart. It’s ...
- 21 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
MAKE: AC MODEL: Ace COLOUR: Red YEAR: 1960 - (1997) MILEAGE: 9,000 PRICE: £140,000.00 - REDUCED DESCRIPTION: Design perfection, the AC Ace needs no introduction. An incredible base that has been breathed on more and more, the foundry of some the most successful race cars in history, the AC & Shelby Cobras ...
- 9,000
- 21 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
Registration number 427 AC on retention ready to assign. For a quicker response to your enquiry please WhatsApp us on 00 (0) 208 871 1357
- 21 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
2001 Gardner Douglas Mk3 Cobra £39,800. A well maintained EURO CHASSIS car with GD race proven double wishbone suspension. First registered August 2001. Current mileage 40,900. Agreed insurance valuation £45,000. Chassis Championship winning lightweight chassis, powder coated red. GD’s famed backbone ...
- 40,900
- 28 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes
Cobra by Cobretti Viper ?Powered by FORD? This cobra was correctly SVA/IVA registered 01/06/2017 . ULEZ Compliant Its one owner from new has only covered only 2090 miles Finished in metallic Blue with Wimbledon white stripes, Removeable roundels and race livery . Detailed with P700 Headlamps, Clear indicators ...
- 2,090
- 20 Mar 2024
- Compare:
- Insurance quotes
- Finance Quotes