AC 3000 ME classic cars for sale

History of the AC 3000 ME

The AC 3000 ME, produced from the late 1970s into the 1980s, marked a pivotal period in AC Cars’ legacy. After success with front-engined roadsters, AC ventured into the mid-engine sports car territory at a time when such configurations were gaining traction on the British and European markets. The ME in its name stands for Mid-Engined, an innovation for the marque, which had previously made its name with cars like the Ace and Cobra. Development delays, homologation hurdles, and evolving safety regulations slowed the model's debut, so while its concept was conceived earlier, market launch didn’t occur until 1979. Built at AC’s Thames Ditton works in Surrey, the 3000 ME was the last in-house developed road car before AC went into a prolonged period of hibernation and licensing arrangements.

Model History

The AC 3000 ME succeeded the legacy of the AC 428 and the world-renowned Cobra, but carved its own path with a focus on modernity and innovation. Initially previewed as a prototype in 1973, production cars saw several engineering refinements to improve handling and comply with changing motor vehicle standards. Only around 100-110 cars were built before production ceased in 1984, reflecting its boutique, hand-built nature. No direct successor followed until later AC revivals and continuation models, making the 3000 ME a unique chapter in the brand’s story.

Highlights of the AC 3000 ME

One clear distinction of the AC 3000 ME is its unique mid-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration, utilising a Ford Essex 3.0-litre V6 for a blend of reliability and performance. The glassfibre bodyshell set upon a steel chassis gave the car a low weight and improved weight distribution—something rarely seen in British cars of this era. Its signature pop-up headlamps, wedge profile, and compact dimensions further define its appearance. The cabin layout brought a focus on driver engagement, with clear instrumentation and sporting ergonomics.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

While the standard 3000 ME was already exclusive, a few interesting variants exist. Several cars feature unique period paintwork or trim ordered by first owners, but factory-authorised special editions were not produced in significant numbers. Uniquely specified cars—such as those with rare colour combinations or dealer-installed performance upgrades—are occasionally encountered. Towards the end of production, a few prototypes and engineering variants with revised suspension and engine calibration emerged, but these were mostly internal to AC and rarely surface on the open market.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The mid-rear placement of the Ford Essex V6 granted the 3000 ME excellent traction and relatively neutral handling for its era. The engine offered ample torque and a characterful soundtrack, neatly matched to the chassis. However, the 3000 ME's performance was governed by the period's safety and emissions constraints, so outright power is moderate by modern standards. The Hewland gearbox brought a direct, mechanical feel to gear changes, reflecting motorsport influences. Double-wishbone suspension front and rear, disc brakes, and a short wheelbase made for a responsive, connected drive, albeit with the typical firmness and occasional unpredictability of older fibreglass sports cars. Early production examples may exhibit handling quirks due to differences in chassis tuning and production evolution over the years. Within the limited run, later 3000 MEs with updated suspension geometry are the more sought-after among specialist buyers. Some examples have been retrofitted with mild performance upgrades, such as electronic ignition or improved carburetion for enhanced drivability.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Styled by Peter Bohanna and Robin Stables, the 3000 ME integrates characteristic 1970s sports car cues: pop-up headlights, wraparound rear glass, and pronounced wheel arches. The cockpit features low-slung seating, a concise binnacle housing Smiths gauges, and practical switchgear. Materials inside included vinyl and, rarely, optional leather trims. Externally, a selection of period colours ranging from deep reds to metallic blues were available, though many cars were delivered to order. Options such as alloy wheels and dealer-fitted radios could be specified, reflecting the semi-bespoke nature of the car. Its compact, purposeful exterior gives the 3000 ME a stance all its own among British sports cars.

Summary

The AC 3000 ME is an intriguing proposition for British classic sports car fans: a rare survivor with a unique pace, engineering backbone, and design ethos impossible to confuse with any other model. Its low production volume and specialist specification make it a genuine point of interest among UK and European collectors who appreciate both its rarity and the snapshot it offers of AC’s innovation at a turning point for the company.