1998 AC Superblower Roadster with Hardtop

• One of 24 made and one of 19 right-hand drive cars
• Wonderful condition and only circa 8,000 miles from new
• Huge, documented history file including a magazine feature
• Interesting ownership history
• Recently come from a major collection

In March 1996, crippled by the cost of developing the new Ace, AC Cars Ltd went into receivership and in December of that year the company was sold to South African businessman Alan Lubinsky's Pride Automotive, which continued production in Weybridge, Surrey under the AC Car Group Ltd name. Both the Cobra Mark IV and the Ace were made, and soon a 'CRS' version of the Mark IV was announced with a carbon-fibre bodyshell. There was also a 212 S/C version with Lotus twin-turbo V8 power, as well as the AC Superblower with a supercharged 5.0-litre Ford V8 engine.

Bolting on a supercharger to the Ford V8 resulted in a remarkable boost in performance, maximum power increasing to 355bhp and torque to 385lb/ft. Thus equipped, the 1,350kg Superblower raced to 60mph in 4.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 165mph, outpacing the standard Mark IV by 32mph and rivalling the legendary '427' for outright speed. Only 24 Superblowers were manufactured, including this right-hand drive model,which is presented in remarkable condition.

Registered in March 1998, this car boasts impeccable paintwork in Metallic Silver with twin burgundy stripes, while the burgundy interior is trimmed in hand-stitched Connolly leather. The carpeting is wool, and a central aluminium panel houses the retro Smiths instruments. Extras include stainless steel air vents, an alarm and a stereo system, the latter fitted in 2000 by AC specialists Autokraft, who also supplied the hardtop (the car also comes with its original soft-top and frame).

Having covered only circa 8,000 miles during its 25-year life, this excellent example comes with all handbooks, original tools and keys. The AC Cobra is a truly remarkable car, combining style, legacy and performance; and of all the Cobras built over the vehicle's 60-year history, this rare supercharged 5.0-litre model surely stands as one of the greatest.

Offered with ownership provenance, and in fabulous condition, this factory-built Superblower has been beautifully maintained throughout its life and looks forward to providing its new owner with '427'-rivalling performance. A unique opportunity for the AC enthusiast to own an important part of the company's history.