AC 428 classic cars for sale

History of the AC 428

The AC 428 emerged from AC Cars' ambition to break into the luxury GT segment, building on previous models such as the Greyhound and Cobra. Initially intended to have a Bertone-designed body, production finally went to Carrozzeria Frua in Turin. Debuting as a cabriolet at the London Motor Exhibition in October 1965, and followed by a fastback at Geneva in 1967, the car featured styling similar to the Frua-designed Maserati Mistral. Select figures in British society—such as racing driver Rob Walker and musician Keith Moon—chose the AC 428, and it even found fame with appearances on British TV. The 428 was built in extremely limited numbers from 1965 to 1973 before being succeeded by the AC 3000ME and the Ace Brooklands.

Model History of the AC 428

The AC 428’s roots lie in the company’s earlier sports and grand touring models, with the Greyhound and Cobra being direct predecessors. The 428 set out to rival established luxury GTs from Aston Martin, Jensen, and Bristol. In its eight years of production, AC manufactured 81 cars—51 in fastback guise and 30 as drophead coupés. Its successor marked a distinct change in direction, with the 3000ME moving into a different performance and technical territory.

Highlights and Special Features

Because each AC 428 was finished almost by hand and assembled between two countries, every example embodies true craftsmanship. It features a chassis engineered in England, a coachbuilt steel body from Italy, and Ford’s celebrated 7-litre FE-series V8 engine. Buyers could choose between a four-speed Ford Toploader manual or a C6 three-speed automatic gearbox. The vehicle boasted a top speed beyond 250 km/h with the manual and managed 0–100 km/h in under 6 seconds, placing it among the most potent luxury GTs of its era.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Three unique prototypes deviated from the main run, aiming at performance improvements and experimental configurations. Each of these is individually documented and recognised by marque specialists, adding to the car’s allure among knowledgeable collectors.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Due to extremely small production numbers, sourcing body panels and specific trim is a challenge. The complex multi-national production also means mechanical components, particularly for the braking and clutch system, should be inspected closely—as these systems are serviceable but may require bespoke work. The integrity of the FE V8 is well regarded, but professional scrutiny of engine and gearbox is essential.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The star attraction is the Ford 428 FE Big Block V8, delivering prodigious torque and power. Paired with a light, stiff English chassis and supple Italian steel body, the AC 428 delivered acceleration numbers rivaling most exotics of its time. The choice of transmissions—Ford Toploader four-speed manual for maximum performance or a relaxed Ford C6 automatic—altered both character and performance envelope. Handling is best described as spirited GT, with a focus on motorway stability and grand touring comfort, rather than track-focused agility. Coupé (fastback) and drophead variants differ not just in looks but performance, as the lighter manual fastback achieves the leading 0–100 km/h times. All models, however, are noted for their high-speed cruising ability and robust V8 soundtrack.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The AC 428’s body, crafted and styled by Pietro Frua, blends muscular lines with refined details—most evident in its extended bonnet, wire wheels, and slim chrome accents. The front styling echoes the Maserati Mistral, another Frua design, while the rear adopts flatter, more linear surfaces for a purposeful stance. Interiors are trimmed in fine leather, with a dashboard filled with round Smiths gauges and toggle switches. Notable are the side-exit exhausts, single roll bar (on some models), and rich colour palettes—including bespoke metallic finishes and harmonised cabin colours. The dashboard layout, convertible tonneau cover, and practical boot space make it a genuine GT car.

Other Noteworthy Features

Select AC 428s have appeared in notable media, with celebrity owners and a prominent role in historical British television. Options included heated rear screens and custom audio installations, reflecting owner preferences at the time.

Summary

With only 81 units ever produced, the AC 428 Frua remains one of the rarest large-capacity V8 grand tourers in classic motoring. Its unusual Anglo-Italian-American engineering and coachbuilding story makes it a truly individual choice for collectors and enthusiasts searching for technical sophistication and exclusivity, with performance to match any contemporary rival.