1966 AC Cobra Mk III 427 Semi-Competition Continuation

1966 AC Cobra Mk III 427 Semi-Competition Continuation

Chassis COX5012

There are few cars that capture the spirit of 1960s motorsport quite like the AC Cobra. Brutally fast, endlessly charismatic, and instantly recognisable, the Cobra has cemented its place as one of the greatest performance cars ever created. Opportunities to acquire an AC-built example of this calibre are exceptionally rare, and rarer still when accompanied by such remarkable provenance and competition credentials.

Chassis COX5012 is one of only 16 AC Cobra Mk III 427 Semi-Competition continuation cars produced by AC Cars (UK) Ltd, built using the original Cobra tooling along with refurbished period components and newly manufactured parts. First registered in the UK in 2008, the car was originally supplied through respected AC specialist Rod Leach of Nostalgia.

Accompanying the car is its AC Certificate of Authenticity, together with a history that places it amongst some of the most significant modern AC Cobras ever produced. COX5012 was formerly owned by renowned Cobra historian and author Trevor Legate, featuring in a number of his publications including Cobra: The First 40 Years and Shooting Cobras. Its association with one of the most respected authorities on the marque adds a level of provenance seldom found within the Cobra world.

In 2010 the car obtained FIA Historic Technical Passport (HTP) approval, classified as FIA TSRC51 under Appendix K of the International Sporting Code. Whilst upgraded since with a more powerful engine specification, returning the car to FIA eligibility would require only relatively minor modifications, opening the door to some of the world’s most prestigious historic motorsport events including the Goodwood Revival, Silverstone Classic, and Spa Six Hours.

Power comes from an exceptional 1966 Ford 427 Side-Oiler FE V8, breathing through a high-rise inlet manifold and twin Holley four-barrel carburettors. Paired with the correct period-style four-speed gearbox, the engine was originally dyno tested at an impressive 632bhp and 641lb-ft of torque. A milder camshaft has since been installed, improving drivability while still delivering approximately 550bhp, ensuring the car remains every bit as exhilarating as its competition-inspired appearance suggests.

Finished in the iconic combination of Guardsman Blue with White Le Mans stripes, the Cobra sits on correct-offset cast magnesium Halibrand wheels, perfectly recreating the stance and presence of the legendary 427 competition cars. Every detail combines to create an authentic driving and ownership experience that few cars can match.

Included within the sale are a number of highly desirable accompanying parts:

Reconditioned period-correct gearbox

Complete Ford 428 FE engine (currently dismantled)

Original cast iron cylinder heads required for FIA re-certification

Combining AC factory provenance, documented FIA competition history, ownership by one of the marque’s foremost historians, and production numbers limited to just sixteen examples, COX5012 represents one of the most significant modern AC Cobras available today.

Whether destined for a serious collection, historic motorsport events, or simply to be enjoyed on the open road, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a truly exceptional chapter of Cobra history.

For further information, or to arrange a viewing, please contact the Pilgrim V8 team.

£269,999

Available now for viewing at our showroom. Demonstrations and inspections welcome.

📞 01273 493860
📧 sales@pilgrim-motorsports.co.uk