Description
When the last 2-litre saloon left the Thames Ditton factory in 1958, AC were left without a car that offered more than two seats. In response to what was perceived as customer demand, as well as encouragement from Hubert Patthey, the racing driver and Swiss AC importer, work began under the direction of AC’s Chief Engineer, Alan Turner, on a four-seat GT Coupé, the Greyhound. The first prototype was given an airing, as well as its competition debut, at an AC and Lagonda Owners Club Sprint at Brand Hatch, which was quickly followed by the first production car making its appearance at the London Motor Show in October 1959. Sitting on an extended version of the Aceca’s steel ladder frame chassis, allowing space for an additional row of two seats behind the driver and front passenger as well as a decent sized boot, the Greyhound was clothed in an attractive alloy body not dissimilar to Aston Martin’s recently introduced DB4. The interior of the car was well appointed, with leather seats front and back, full carpeting throughout, ample instrumentation, and good headroom for all occupants.
Most cars in the late 1950s still relied on live rear axles, leaf springs, and four-wheel drum brakes, however the Greyhound offered a more modern approach with fully independent front and rear suspension on coil springs, rack and pinion steering and disc brakes on the front. In common with the Ace and Aceca, Greyhound customers were offered a choice of four engines and the all straight-six line up included AC’s own 1, 991cc 75bhp unit - the BMW-derived Bristol OHV engine in 125bhp 1, 971cc and 2, 216cc 105bhp form; and the 2, 553cc Ford Zephyr engine which was capable of producing up to 170bhp when tuned by Ruddspeed. Whilst the Zephyr engine was the most powerful, purists rightful preference was always the smooth and 'revvy' Bristol powerplants as the noise, balance and feel was perfect for the Greyhound’s GT aspirations when combined with a 4-speed manual gearbox and the optional overdrive.
This UK-supplied example was restored around 20 years ago by renowned Bristol specialist Spencer Lane-Jones, with invoices confirming that over 570 hours had been invested in the car’s restoration’, the quality of which remains evident in it’s excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition today. In 2019 it was repainted in Aston Martin Dunhill Silver, a sophisticated shade that accentuates the flowing body lines, while the absence of bumpers gives the car a more purposeful stance and evokes the rally-prepared Greyhounds of the period.
Complementing the silver paintwork is the original red interior, which remains in wonderfully lightly patinated condition. The cabin retains its wooden dashboard with the full complement of original instruments, and a period correct radio sits neatly beneath – importantly, there are no signs of unnecessary modification, preserving the car’s authenticity and charm.
All the car’s running gear remains in good order, however, at the heart of every Greyhound is its Bristol engine and this unit was rebuilt to near 100S specification, delivering approximately 125bhp and said to perform very well. Since being acquired in 2019, the car has been serviced and improved by INRacing and Spencer Lane Jones (£25, 000 bills on file), with the carburettors rebuilt and the braking system overhauled, demonstrating continued maintenance and ongoing care. Its quality has been recognised with a recent win at the AC Owners’ Club Concours, confirming its standing within the marque community.
Perhaps most impressive is the AC’s history which is neatly organised in three box files of documentation, including the original buff logbook, extensive invoices, photographs and detailed restoration notes from Spencer Lane-Jones. I have diligently looked after all the associated paperwork (I have never seen so much history for one car) and have kept the car in dry, heated storage throughout my ownership. The car comes with a bespoke indoor and outdoor cover and benefits from all the work I have commissioned since purchase that includes everything from top mechanical work through to the installation of seatbelts.
I have acquired bumpers for the car that will be included in the sale.
Only 83 Greyhounds were built - British automotive royalty and rarity!
A rare opportunity to acquire a beautifully restored and well maintained AC Greyhound in the most desirable specification, supported by concours success and exceptional provenance. I acquired my AC Greyhound in 2019 for a simple reason: it spoke to me in a way few cars ever have. Even among rare automobiles, the Greyhound felt different — more elusive than before, and undeniably beautiful. Those wonderful British lines, elegant and restrained, seemed to capture an era when style and engineering lived in perfect harmony. Beneath that sculpted bonnet sat the magnificent Bristol engine, widely regarded as the most capable of the Bristol units fitted to these cars — smooth, willing, and full of character.
My collection spans decades, from the 1930s through to modern machinery, each car carefully preserved in temperature-controlled storage. Yet the Greyhound quickly became a favourite. It wasn’t just another addition; I had seatbelts fitted so I could share the experience with my young children, taking them on holidays and creating memories that will long outlast the miles.
We’ve travelled far together — across the UK and into France, including an unforgettable run to the Le Mans Classic. The car has proven as capable as it is graceful. Tens of thousands of pounds have gone into its maintenance, it deserves to remain in top condition. It works on the button, every time, without fuss.
Many beautiful cars exist from that golden period, but few can compare with the Greyhound’s presence. Its subtle Superleggera-style body, wire wheels, and balanced proportions make it feel like a true automotive legend. In silver, it is simply stunning — endlessly admired, always drawing conversation wherever I go.
Years have passed, and while other cars have come and gone, this one has remained with me. Through ownership, I’ve had the pleasure of attending AC gatherings, most memorably the AC Greyhound reunion at the RAC Club. There, among fellow enthusiasts and these extraordinarily rare machines, I became part of a warm and passionate community — a fitting home for a car that continues to capture imaginations, including my own.
The car featured in the 2025 Antler luggage marketing campaign, demonstrating its stylish and timeless charm.
