Reimagined AC Cobra to gain new engine and gearbox options in 2026

While replica AC Cobras are so dime-a-dozen that it's rare to see a real one, the company behind the original is back to building them itself, with an updated Cobra GT due in 2026.

AC Cars, founded all the way back in 1901, relaunched in 2022 to start reproducing the iconic model with an all-new design and chassis, and this marks the first update since the new Cobra was unveiled in 2023.

The updated 2026 range will include a new entry-point with a new 2.0-litre engine available in two states of tune offering as much as 291kW (390hp), which will sit alongside the existing 336kW (450hp) naturally aspirated and 537kW (720hp) supercharged Ford V8 engine options.

Although full details of the 2.0-litre engine and its origins won't be disclosed until Q2 2025, AC Cars claims it is "working in conjunction with a global leader in hybrid and internal combustion powertrain solutions" to ensure the new engine option will "suit the characteristics and potential that its GT platform delivers".

Although the original Cobra was only ever offered as a Roadster, the brand-new model saw a Coupe body introduced in August 2024

Even with the limited information on offer, it's clear to see that it isn't the 2.3-litre Ford EcoBoost engine offered in the company's other continuation model, the AC Ace, which is also available with an electric drivetrain produced by Tremec.

In addition to the new engine, which will be inherently lighter than the existing engine options, AC will also offer a new dual-clutch gearbox in addition to the standard six-speed manual.

All 2026 model cars will also feature additional weight saving by extending the use of carbon fibre for sections of the chassis.

Built on a brand-new platform, this new Cobra is 2570mm wheelbase which is a noticeable 284mm longer than the original, although this is cloaked by a mere 110mm increase to its overall length. It also features a wider track width to enhance vehicle stability.

In addition to the 2.0-litre engine and dual-clutch gearbox joining the offerings, the Cobra GT's chassis will feature even more use of carbon fibre than the 2023 chassis shown here

The carbon-composite body of the Roadster model is claimed to weigh less than 50kg, making it extremely light. Each model will be hand-built in the UK, with a production target of 250 units per year for the Roadster model.

However, while the original car was only ever offered as a Roadster, a first-ever Coupe model was added to the lineup in August this year. The GT S Coupe Clubsport Edition model, limited to 99 units, boasts as much as 596kW (799hp) from its blown V8.

Pricing is expected to start at £235,000 for the entry-level 2.0-litre Cobra, which is still a hefty A$475,600 in our currency. Interested buyers with the cash to splash can reserve their build slot on the AC Cars website.

The first-ever Cobra GT Coupe which joined the lineup this year will also be available with the new 2.0-litre engine, although the limited-run Clubsport Edition with a beastly 596kW supercharged Ford V8 is the most desirable one to have