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AC Greyhound

The AC Greyhound is a rare British grand touring coupé produced by AC Cars from 1960 to 1963, following a 1959 prototype unveiling, featuring a 2+2 seating layout on a lengthened chassis derived from the AC Ace sports car. Developed as a more luxurious companion to the sporty AC Ace and Aceca models, the Greyhound was unveiled as a prototype at the 1959 Earls Court Motor Show, with its aluminium bodywork styled by AC's chief engineer Alan Turner on a chassis extended by 10 inches for greater rear passenger space and comfort. The design drew inspiration from contemporary GT cars like the Aston Martin DB Mark III, incorporating a tubular steel ladder frame, independent coil-spring suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and front disc brakes paired with rear drums. Power came from inline-six engines tuned for smooth grand touring performance, with options including AC's own 2.0-litre unit producing 75–105 , Bristol's 2.0-litre (125 ) or 2.2-litre (105 ) variants, and a limited number fitted with the 2.6-litre . All models used a four-speed gearbox with optional , achieving a top speed of around 110 mph and 0–60 mph acceleration in approximately 11 seconds for the Bristol-powered versions. Production totaled 82 units across its four-year run—17 in 1960, 44 in 1961, 18 in 1962, and 3 in 1963—reflecting limited demand and the company's shift toward exporting chassis for the Shelby project. Priced at £2,891 to £3,185 new (equivalent to about £85,000–£95,000 in 2025), it targeted affluent buyers seeking a refined alternative to rivals like the , though some critics noted its imprecise steering and firm ride. The Greyhound's legacy endures as a collectible classic, valued for its handcrafted quality, connection to AC's racing heritage—including the Ace's 1959 class victory—and cultural appearances, such as in the 1960s British television series The Avengers. Today, surviving examples are preserved by enthusiasts, with comprehensive service histories often tracing back to ' Thames Ditton factory.

History and Development

Origins and Design

Following , shifted its focus to producing lightweight sports cars, drawing on its pre-war expertise in design and aluminum bodywork. The , introduced in 1953, featured a ladder-frame with and an aluminum body, establishing a foundation for subsequent models like the closed-roof Aceca coupe launched in 1954. These two-seater vehicles emphasized agile handling and performance, but AC sought to expand its market appeal by developing a more versatile . In the late 1950s, under the leadership of owner Derek Hurlock, AC decided to create a 2+2 variant of the and Aceca to accommodate rear passengers, targeting families and long-distance travelers while maintaining the brand's ethos. This move was prompted by demand from customers, including AC's importer Patthey, who encouraged the of a four-seater GT. The project originated from Hurlock's commission to chief engineer Alan to design an Aceca-based with enhanced interior space. Turner played a pivotal role in the Greyhound's styling, crafting a sleek, aerodynamic body that echoed the Aceca's lines but incorporated a lengthened —from the Ace's 90 inches to 100 inches—to provide usable rear seating without compromising the low-slung profile. As chief engineer, also oversaw adaptations to balance four-passenger comfort with the responsive handling characteristic of AC's sports cars, utilizing the established tubular frame and aluminum construction for reduced weight and improved performance. Initial sketches evolved into prototypes by late 1958, with testing conducted through 1959 to refine the design's and ride quality, culminating in the emphasis on hand-beaten aluminum panels for both structural integrity and lightweight agility.

Launch and Early Production

The AC Greyhound was unveiled to the public at the Earls Court Motor Show in 1959, where it debuted as a premium 2+2 positioned as a more practical evolution of AC's earlier Aceca model. Priced at £2,891, it featured advanced engineering including at all four wheels and rack-and-pinion steering, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a blend of sportiness and refinement. Initial production commenced in 1960 at ' Thames Ditton factory in , , with the first customer deliveries occurring later that year following the show's enthusiastic reception. Early marketing campaigns highlighted the Greyhound's luxury touring credentials, emphasizing its hand-beaten aluminum body, fine leather interiors, and capacity for comfortable long-distance travel with adequate rear seating for two adults. Targeted at affluent buyers in the UK and export markets such as the , it was promoted as a "gentleman's tourer" for discerning motorists who valued craftsmanship and exclusivity over outright speed. The launch faced several challenges, including intermittent supply constraints for the preferred Bristol six-cylinder engines, which occasionally delayed assembly and limited output. Additionally, the Greyhound encountered stiff competition from established grand tourers like the , whose superior performance and brand prestige overshadowed AC's more affordable yet elegant offering in the premium segment. In response to initial feedback, minor updates were introduced during and , such as relocating the front spotlights to the grille sides for improved and reinforcing the frame to better support the aluminum bodywork, with production models featuring a stronger square-section design. The extended provided roomier rear passenger accommodation compared to the tighter Aceca.

Design and Engineering

Body and Chassis

The AC Greyhound utilized a tubular steel derived from the and Aceca models, but extended to a 100-inch to provide space for seating while maintaining structural rigidity for grand touring duties. This design balanced lightweight construction with enhanced stability, allowing the engine to mount directly to the for efficient power delivery. The body featured hand-formed aluminum panels fitted over the tubular steel framework, which contributed to the car's low weight of approximately 2,240 pounds and inherent resistance due to the non-ferrous material. Additional underbody protection was applied to shield against and moisture, further enhancing durability in varied climates. The aerodynamic styling, penned by AC's Alan , included a low 53-inch roofline, integrated bumpers for a streamlined profile, and distinctive rear haunches that accentuated the overall 180-inch length, evoking contemporary aesthetics while prioritizing airflow and visual elegance. Inside, the Greyhound offered a comfortable four-seat layout trimmed in , with a wood-veneer housing essential and optional amenities such as a heater and radio to suit long-distance travel. This interior configuration emphasized practicality and refinement, providing adequate front space and marginal rear legroom without compromising the car's sporty character.

Engine and Drivetrain Options

The AC Greyhound was offered with several options, reflecting the era's trend toward customizable in grand tourers. One of the options was the in-house AC 1,991 cc overhead-cam inline-six , equipped with a single and producing 75 at 4,500 rpm; although offered, it was fitted to only a small number of examples. This unit provided adequate but modest for everyday driving, emphasizing reliability over outright speed. Most Greyhounds were powered by engines. Most early Greyhounds were fitted with the more potent 1,971 Type 100D2 overhead-valve inline-six, derived from BMW's pre-war designs and delivering 125 at 5,750 rpm. This engine, with its smooth power delivery and higher output, became the preferred choice for buyers seeking enhanced acceleration and a top speed approaching 115 mph. In 1961, AC introduced a 2,216 inline-six variant, tuned for improved low-end and outputting 105 at 4,750 rpm, which suited the car's grand touring character by facilitating easier overtaking and hill climbing without sacrificing refinement. For those desiring greater performance, an optional 2,553 cc inline-six—often tuned by specialist Ken Rudd's Ruddspeed preparation—could be specified in later or custom-built examples, achieving up to 170 at 5,500 rpm. Some subsequent adaptations incorporated a V6 version of the Ford unit for even higher output, though these were rare and typically post-production modifications. The drivetrain was uniformly across all engine choices, paired with a 4-speed manual gearbox. An optional Laycock-de Normanville unit could be added for relaxed highway cruising, enhancing the Greyhound's long-distance capabilities without complicating the mechanical layout. This configuration allowed seamless integration of the various engines into the tubular chassis, with minimal adaptations required beyond mounting points.

Specifications

Dimensions and Performance

The AC Greyhound measures 180 inches in overall length, 65.5 inches in width, 52.5 inches in height, and features a 100-inch wheelbase, providing a compact yet accommodating grand tourer footprint for its era. These dimensions contributed to its agile proportions, with the aluminum body construction helping to maintain a low center of gravity. The curb weight typically ranged around 2,240 pounds. Equipped with the 2.0-liter producing 105 , the Greyhound delivered respectable performance for a of the early . Independent road tests recorded a 0-60 time of 11.4 seconds, a top speed of 110 , and a fuel economy of 21.8 ( imperial). The engine's smooth power delivery, aided by an optional four-speed , allowed for comfortable cruising while supporting these figures. Handling was characterized by direct rack-and-pinion steering, which provided precise control and a turning circle of approximately 38 feet, making the car nimble in urban and winding road conditions. Braking performance, with a mixed /drum setup, was effective in period evaluations.

Suspension and Braking

The AC Greyhound's suspension was engineered for sports car-like dynamics within a grand tourer framework, featuring fully independent coil-spring setups at both ends. The front suspension employed double wishbones with coil springs and telescopic dampers, providing responsive handling and stability. At the rear, semi-trailing arms with coil springs represented a key advancement over the live rear axle found in earlier AC models such as the , allowing for improved ride compliance and cornering poise without sacrificing luggage space. This configuration delivered a pleasant ride quality tuned for grand touring, balancing comfort on long journeys with agile road manners suitable for spirited driving. The braking system utilized 11.75-inch disc brakes at the front for effective stopping power and 11-inch drum brakes at the rear, all operated through a hydraulic setup that ensured reliable . The Greyhound came equipped with 5.50 x 16-inch tires on center-lock wire-spoke wheels, which supported solid grip and contributed to the car's overall poise in motion.

Production and Variants

Production Details

The AC Greyhound was produced in limited numbers at ' Thames Ditton facility in , , from 1959 to 1963, with a total of 83 units completed. Annual production was 17 units in 1960, 44 in 1961, 18 in 1962, and 3 in 1963. This handcrafted utilized a lengthened derived from the Aceca model, featuring a stronger square-section frame to support its aluminum bodywork. The assembly process was highly labor-intensive, involving hand-formed aluminum panels over a tubular steel framework, reflecting AC's small-scale, artisanal manufacturing approach typical of British sports car makers of the era. Production output varied annually but remained modest due to the model's high price—around £3,185—and from more affordable alternatives like saloons. Early years saw the highest volumes, with numbers declining sharply by 1963 as demand waned. The majority of Greyhounds were configured as right-hand drive for the domestic market, while three examples were built in left-hand drive for the market. This limited export orientation underscored AC's strategy to target affluent international buyers, though overall sales fell short of expectations. Manufacturing ceased in 1963 after just four years, as AC redirected resources to the burgeoning program, which promised greater commercial viability through its partnership with . The company's modest scale—with authorized capital of only £100,000—and mounting financial strains from low-volume production further necessitated this pivot away from the Greyhound.

Engine Variants and Customizations

The AC Greyhound was equipped with four primary engine variants during its production run, allowing buyers to choose between performance-oriented and more economical options. Of the 83 units built, 47 featured the Bristol 100D2 2.0-liter inline-six engine, delivering 125 at 5,750 rpm from its BMW-derived design with dual overhead camshafts and twin carburetors. Another 25 units received the detuned Bristol 2.2-liter inline-six (Type 110), which prioritized low-end over peak power, producing 105 at 4,700 rpm while maintaining the same smooth character. Five cars were fitted with AC's own 2.0-liter overhead-cam inline-six, rated at 75 at 4,500 rpm, offering a cost-effective alternative derived from the company's pre-war designs. Finally, six units incorporated the torquey 2.6-liter inline-six, generating 170 at 4,750 rpm, primarily for customers seeking higher output without the premium of Bristol engineering. Factory and dealer customizations expanded the Greyhound's appeal, particularly for the Bristol-engined models. Triple carburetors were a popular upgrade on the 2.0-liter Bristol, elevating output to as much as 130 by improving fuel delivery and throttle response, though this required careful tuning to maintain reliability. Transmission choices complemented the engine options, with a 4-speed manual gearbox standard across all variants, providing precise control suited to the car's ethos. was factory-fitted or retrofitted in about 70% of examples, extending cruising speeds on highways up to 110 mph without straining the . Later models, especially those with the engine, could be specified with a 3-speed for smoother urban operation, though manual remained the preferred configuration for enthusiasts. Regional adaptations ensured compliance with export markets, notably for the , where the three LHD examples included sealed-beam headlights for federal safety standards. One-off customizations by owners and dealers further individualized the Greyhound, though none were officially sanctioned for racing by . Notable examples include lightweight aluminum panel replacements for track preparation, dropping curb weight by approximately 100 kg to improve handling in amateur events.

Reception and Legacy

Contemporary Reviews

Upon its debut at the 1959 London Motor Show, the AC Greyhound generated positive buzz for its elegant styling and luxurious appointments, positioning it as a refined suitable for discerning buyers seeking a blend of performance and practicality. Attendees and early press noted its sleek aluminum bodywork and upscale interior, though some expressed concerns about the availability of spare parts given AC's small-scale production. In a 1961 road test, Autocar praised the Greyhound as a versatile motor car ideal for enthusiasts balancing family obligations with a desire for spirited driving, highlighting the smooth operation of its Bristol straight-six engine and its composed handling on winding roads. However, the magazine also pointed out the high price—around £2,891 at launch—and limited rear passenger space, which made it less practical for larger families despite its 2+2 configuration. Complementing this, The Motor's 1961 test commended the engine's refinement and the car's overall build quality but criticized the rear suspension for straight-line wander and sudden oversteer, suggesting it required further development to match its premium positioning. The publication recorded a fuel economy of 21.5 miles per imperial gallon and noted the rear drum brakes as adequate but outdated compared to all-disc setups on rivals. Across the Atlantic, Road & Track's January 1962 review emphasized the Greyhound's exotic appeal as a rare British four-seater import, awarding it strong marks for its distinctive looks and touring comfort while critiquing the drum rear brakes for fade under hard use and the modest 21 economy. Sales reception was mixed, with acclaim for the car's exceptional craftsmanship and quiet refinement but disappointment over its elevated cost—exceeding £3,000 including taxes—which priced it closer to an than more accessible rivals like the or the forthcoming E-Type. Only 83 examples were produced between 1960 and 1963, reflecting limited demand amid economic pressures and the shift in AC's focus toward the . Contemporary owner reports from the early 1960s, such as that of original owner Peter J. Rampton, highlighted the Greyhound's suitability for long-distance touring, praising its ability to maintain reliable high-speed cruises while delivering a serene cabin experience. Its appearance in the 1962 television series The Avengers, driven by the sophisticated character , further cemented its image among period enthusiasts as a stylish yet capable gentleman's express.

Modern Collectibility

The AC Greyhound's status as a collector's item is underscored by its extreme rarity, with only 83 examples produced between 1959 and 1963, and approximately 62 believed to survive today. This scarcity drives intense demand among enthusiasts, particularly for well-preserved or low-mileage specimens, which appear infrequently at . For example, a 1960 model with around 43,000 miles sold for £72,000 at Iconic Auctioneers in May 2022, reflecting the model's appeal to buyers seeking understated grand touring elegance. Restoring a poses significant challenges due to the difficulty in sourcing original aluminum body panels, which require specialized hand-fabrication skills, and engines, many of which were harvested from donor during periods when the powerplants held greater standalone value than the vehicles themselves. High costs, often exacerbated by the labor-intensive work on the lightweight aluminum coachwork, can deter casual owners, but dedicated specialists and clubs mitigate these issues. The AC Owners Club plays a vital role in preservation efforts, offering technical resources, parts sourcing advice, and community events to support Greyhound custodians. In terms of cultural legacy, the Greyhound has gained recognition through appearances in television, notably in the 1960s series The Avengers, where it symbolized sophisticated British motoring. It remains a staple at shows and concours events, such as those organized by the AC Owners Club, fostering ongoing appreciation among vintage automobile aficionados. Preservation emphasizes authenticity, with matching-numbers examples—those retaining original engine, chassis, and gearbox pairings—commanding substantial premiums over modified variants, often exceeding £70,000 for concours-ready cars in 2025 auctions. For instance, a 1962 model was offered at Iconic Auctioneers in November 2025. This focus on originality has contributed to steadily rising market values since the early , buoyed by broader interest in AC's postwar heritage.

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