The phrase “AC Cobra” instantly conjures images of raw, V-8 powered performance and a dominant racing pedigree. However, few individual cars carry a history as complex and fascinating as this 1964 AC Cobra Replica. It is a car that has lived multiple lives, weaving its way through crashes, rebuilds, and European racing circuits. Its story is so intricate that the details of its chassis, COB 6040, take up significant space in the renowned World Registry of Cobras & GT40s.
A Chassis With a Complex History
The original chassis, COB 6040, first left AC Cars in a right-hand-drive specification. It was finished in Bright Blue with a Red interior, arriving at the dealer in December 1964. Soon, the car was converted for competition use. Unfortunately, a crash at Snetterton circuit ended its first competitive run quickly. Therefore, AC Cars took the car back for a total, comprehensive rebuild in 1965.
The Origin of the “Replica” Designation
For the rebuild, the initial chassis was discarded. The factory used a new chassis, which they numbered “COB6040-A”. Despite this change, the rebuilt car retained the original “COB 6040” plate. Meanwhile, parts of the first chassis were later used to build another Cobra, initially plated “PL 100.” By the 1970s, this car also acquired a “COB 6040” plate, which highlights the difficulty in tracking these early competition cars.
Racing Pedigree and Rebirth
The car we see now, currently registered as “SKK 824G,” was rebuilt again following another 1974 incident. The rebuild included a new body. Subsequently, this Cobra was owned and raced extensively by Steve Hitchins. It competed fiercely in European FIA Championship events.
A Genuine Competition Past
This car has a legitimate competition history. It secured notable race wins at tracks like Zolder and the Nürburgring. Furthermore, it claimed victories at Donington Park and Dijon. It even recorded a GTS class win at Paul Ricard in 1993, which adds greatly to its unique legacy. These competitive successes confirm its capability on the track.
V-8 Engine Power and Mechanics
This 1964 AC Cobra Replica is powered by a robust V-8 engine. It channels that power through a four-speed manual gearbox. The V-8 setup provides the essential brute force and aggressive soundtrack expected from a Cobra. This particular car, although now a road-use example, carries the heart of a serious sports machine. Performance is always instantaneous with the classic V-8 and manual gearbox combination. Furthermore, the car is accompanied by a spare five-bolt V-8 engine prepared by Mathwall Engineering.
An Enticing Package of Spares
The appeal of this car extends beyond the vehicle itself. The car comes with a generous collection of spare parts. These include a spare body, a spare gearbox dated 1964, and a full set of four spare wheels. The availability of these valuable components underscores its history. This gives the next owner a substantial bonus to the car purchase.
Decades of Dedicated Stewardship
The current owner’s association with this complex lineage began in 1998. They purchased both this road-use car and a new competition-specification car constructed with the “COB 6040” chassis number. This particular car was retained and used for road driving. The nearly three decades of single ownership show a true dedication to the history of this 1964 AC Cobra Replica. It presents nicely in a metallic light blue finish with a black interior.
This AC Cobra replica is an exceptional example of automotive history repeating itself. It is a documented car with a genuine racing past that has been diligently maintained. The complex yet fascinating history of its chassis, COB 6040, makes it a unique piece of Cobra heritage.
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Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
