1995 AC COBRA MK IV

This Mark IV AC Cobra presents in superb condition with exceptionally low mileage, and was originally built for the royal family of Brunei. Under the bonnet is a 5.0-litre Ford V8, which produces around 250bhp, driving the rear wheels via an automatic gearbox – believed to be one of only three cars to feature such a transmission. The odometer displays just 3,618 miles from new.

Famously created by American racer and entrepreneur Carol Shelby, the original AC Cobra combined the lightweight frame of an AC Ace with a Ford small block V8, and was produced in three iterations – culminating in the Cobra Mk III, which was manufactured from 1965 until 1967. In 1986, specialist sports car company Autokraft purchased AC Cars, and developed the so-called Mk IV model, of which this is one of around 480 examples built.

First registered overseas, but soon re-registered in the UK in December 1995, this right-hand drive Cobra was produced as a special order for a member of the royal family of Brunei, assumed to have been the famously extravagant Prince Jefri Bolkiah, as the car was initially registered to his Argent International company.

It was acquired by its second owner in 1999, who reportedly kept the car until 2013 and only drove it sparingly, and its third ownership lasted from 2013 until 2016, when the current owner acquired it.

Today, this Cobra’s aluminium bodywork is in fantastic overall condition, with no evidence of prior accident damage and with even shut lines. It is painted in Ferrari’s Rosso Corsa hue, and the finish has a bright and glossy appearance around the car, with only a few small scratches beneath the front lip. The car rides on a set of 16-inch Hallibrand-style alloy wheels with black centres and polished rims. All four are in great shape, and are fitted with three-eared knock-off hub nuts, which are further secured by safety wires.

Trimmed in black leather upholstery, the cabin of this classic-inspired roadster presents very well indeed. While there are some creases on the surfaces of the seats, and light marks on the driver’s back support, these are minor, and are commensurate with the car’s age. The dashboard and door cards are also trimmed in matching black leather, and remain in great shape, while the car’s wood-rimmed steering wheel matches its vintage charm perfectly. The cabin is also fitted with a Sony stereo. All of the interior switches and electrical items work as they should.

While it is unknown when the car’s last full service was carried out, the vendor notes that its brake lines were changed in 2019. This AC’s last MOT test was conducted on 22 February 2021 at 3,535 miles, resulting in a first-time pass, with advisories noting only that both of the rear tyres were just starting to perish with age. All four of the car’s wheels are shod in Dunlop SP Sport tyres, and evidently the rear tyres would benefit from replacement before driving too enthusiastically.

The car will be accompanied by its original owner’s handbook, plus its weather gear with roof frame and the vinyl hood with press-stud fixings.

A special order for one of the world’s most prolific car collectors, this AC Cobra Mk IV is in excellent cosmetic condition and has genuine low mileage from new. Equipped with an automatic transmission, it is arguably a Cobra you could more readily enjoy at a relaxed cruise, while losing none of its high-output naturally aspirated V8 character. This unique Cobra would make a great addition to any collection, especially given its royal provenance, and it appears to need nothing more than a fresh pair of rear tyres before taking to the road and opening the throttle.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.

Please note: the cherished plate shown on the vehicle is not included in the sale. It will be switched back to an age-related registration plate in the event of a successful auction.