AC Cars can trace its history back to 1903 but its zenith was during the post-war era under the leadership of Derek Hurlock. The pivotal moment was AC’s adoption of John Tojeiro’s low-slung lightweight tubular ladder chassis. Tojeiro had proven the concept with some Bristol-engined cars, clothed in a body that was largely copied from Ferrari’s stunning Touring-designed 166 MM Barchetta. The design was modified slightly to become AC’s much-loved Ace.

Following on from the closed version of the Ace, the Aceca, AC identified the 2+2 coupé market as an area of growth, then dominated by cars like the Aston Martin DB2/4. By stretching the Ace chassis, updating the front suspension to be coil sprung, and adopting rack and pinion steering, AC created a more comfortable platform for a luxury car. A stylish all-aluminium body enveloped the chassis, and clients had a choice of engines including Bristol’s torquier 2,216 cc straight-six with an aluminium cylinder head. Production lasted nearly five years until 1963, when the success of the Cobra consumed all the firm’s efforts—in total just 83 Greyhounds left the Thames Ditton works.

Chassis number “BEF 2558” is a wonderful mid-production example. Specified with a desirable Bristol 110 engine, this Greyhound was delivered to a lady in Surrey during November 1961. She was so enamoured with the charms of the Greyhound that she kept it until 1977 when it passed into the hands of AC enthusiast, Maurice Knight. When he took possession it was fitted with an incorrect engine, so he installed a Bristol 100D engine from his AC Ace.

Acquired by the vendor in 1985, this three-owner Greyhound appeared regularly at events such as ACOC meetings and regularity rallies. After 29 years of enjoyment, the consigning owner decided to refresh this Greyhound by sending it to marque specialist, AC Heritage.

After evaluation, a restoration was commenced which included the body being stripped to bare metal, panels being repaired with some replacement metal, before being repainted in Silver Birch. Some of the original interior was retained and treated, with new trim in places. Importantly, a correct-type replacement 110 engine was sourced and entirely rebuilt with Cosworth pistons and a sportier cam.

What resulted is one of the finest Greyhounds in existence, with it representing the AC Owners Club at the Hampton Court-hosted Concours of Elegance in 2019. Since the restoration, this Greyhound has covered only a few hundred miles; it is shaken down and ready for its fourth owner to enjoy it for decades to come. Ideal for shows and the Goodwood Revival’s Pre-1966 car park, this Greyhound offers a rare opportunity to own an AC legend.