1961 AC Greyhound

Lot details
Registration No: 199 APX
Chassis No: BEF2523
Mot Expiry: T.B.A.

Introduced in 1959, the AC Greyhound boasted lines that were every bit as sleek as its namesake. Based around a stretched version of the same ladder-frame chassis that underpinned the Ace / Aceca, its sensuous aluminium coupe bodywork was supported by a multi-tubular steel superstructure. A true four-seater with decent luggage space, it further benefited from all-round independent coil-sprung suspension, a slick four-speed manual gearbox, disc / drum brakes and rack and pinion steering. Predominantly powered by the same Bristol OHV straight-six engine which had done so much to establish the AC name in competition circles, the model was credited with a 100mph plus top speed and brisk acceleration. Essentially hand built, the Greyhound was only in production for four years during which time just 83 are thought to have left the Thames Ditton factory.

Apparently robbed of its original Bristol engine and gearbox during the 1970s (a fate that befell many Greyhounds), '199 APX' is further understood to have lain derelict for over ten years. The subject of an extensive, £22,000 plus, "chassis up" restoration since entering the current ownership in 1998, the AC is said to have benefited from the following new components: "suspension, wiring, wheels, dashboard and front / rear screens" as well as a thorough refurbishment of its bodywork and instruments. Powered by an overhauled, carburettor-fed Triumph 2.5 litre straight-six engine allied to four-speed manual plus overdrive transmission, the coupe was repainted in Aston Martin Metallic Green and retrimmed with green leather upholstery before returning to the road in 2002. Forced to compete with a number of more demanding stablemates, we are informed that '199 APX' has scarcely turned a wheel during the intervening five years. As such, it is felt to "need using and final sorting". A strikingly handsome car, it is hoped that this sympathetically modified Greyhound will possess a fresh MOT certificate buy the time of sale.