Description
The AC Cobra 260, also known as the Shelby Cobra, represents a legendary collaboration between British engineering and American muscle. Introduced in the early 1960s, the Cobra 260 was the result of a partnership between AC Cars and American racing driver Carroll Shelby. Shelby envisioned a car that combined the lightweight agility of a British sports car with the raw power of an American V8 engine, and the Cobra 260 was the realization of this vision.
The AC Cobra 260 was based on the AC Ace platform but was extensively modified to accommodate a more powerful engine and enhanced performance characteristics. Under the hood, it housed a 260 cubic inch (4.2-liter) Ford V8 engine, which produced approximately 260 horsepower. This significant increase in power transformed the already capable Ace chassis into a ferociously quick sports car, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just over five seconds and achieving top speeds in excess of 140 mph.
The Cobra 260’s design retained the elegant lines of the AC Ace but featured flared wheel arches, wider tires, and a more aggressive stance to handle the increased power and improve handling. The lightweight aluminum body helped to keep the car’s weight down, contributing to its impressive performance and nimbleness on the road and track.
Inside, the Cobra 260 was relatively spartan, with a focus on functionality and driver engagement. The cockpit featured simple but effective instrumentation, supportive bucket seats, and a wood-rimmed steering wheel, all designed to provide a pure and unfiltered driving experience.
The AC Cobra 260 quickly gained a reputation for its thrilling performance and became a dominant force in motorsport, particularly in the United States. Its success on the track and its distinctive blend of British style with American power have cemented its status as one of the most iconic and revered sports cars in automotive history. Today, the AC Cobra 260 is a highly sought-after collector’s item, admired for its historical significance and exhilarating driving dynamics.