1957 AC ACE Bristol

-Bright Red, Black Bridge of Weir Leather Interior, Black Wilton Carpeting, 4-Speed Manual Transmission, Upgraded to Bristol Specification, Impeccable Provenance and Restoration. This AC Ace Bristol is powered by a 1,971 CC OHV Inline 6-Cylinder Engine with Triple Solex Carburetors and produces 128 BHP at 5,750 RPM. The drivetrain runs through a 4-speed manual gearbox. It has front disc brakes with rear drums and 4-wheel independent suspension. In its day, the Ace Bristol was absolutely the car to have, offering a responsive and capable driving experience. Later, it would become the basis for Mr. Carol Shelbys venerable Cobra. It was shipped from the A.C. factory in Thames Ditton to Los Angeles importers and had remained in California for most of its life. This AC was shown at The Pebble Beach Concours while under the ownership of Mr. Ashenfelter, where it was the recipient of class awards on both occasions. In the mid-1980s, it then changed hands to Mr. Sharp, of Glendale, California. Mr. Sharp decided to remove the factory Ace engine and place into another of his cars. In 1993, after several years of ownership, the AC was sold-on and treated to a complete restoration. It was at this point that this Ace was upgraded to Bristol specification and fitted with its correct 100 D2 specification engine, drivetrain, larger capacity radiator, differential and front disc brakes. This is a well optioned and accessorized AC Ace Bristol, with a remarkable pedigree and the product of old-world engineering that is rarely found today. To date, it has received standard maintenance, when and where needed by its past owners as well as marque specialists and thus, remains in excellent in every respect. This AC is accompanied by its owners manual, restoration receipts, black soft top, restoration photographs, full tonneau cover and Plexiglas windows. The AC looks and performs as one would expect from an exceptionally restored example and will qualify for almost any vintage sports car event, the world over. It is likely one of the finest examples in existence, and a wonderful opportunity to acquire an appreciating mid-century automotive icon.