AC 378 GT Zagato
Great late news from the Geneva motor show is that the South African-built car formerly known as the Perana Z-One will from now on wear the famous AC badge. Remember theAC Cobra? The AC 378 GT Zagato will still be built in both left- and right-hand drive configurations by Jimmy Price’s acclaimed operation in Port Elizabeth, with final assembly in Germany.
As the name suggests, the 378 GT is powered by a 378 cubic inch or 6.2-litre ‘all-American’ V8, producing 323kW and 583Nm of torque. Drive is sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox, with AC Cars claiming a 50/50 weight distribution of the car’s 1465kg mass and some impressive performance stats; 0-100kph in less than 4secs and a top speed just shy of 300kph.
AC are also making noises about the 378’s ‘superb handling’, adding that ‘the new car has been subjected to intensive track testing in South Africa.’ For added effect, the press pack contains a rendering of a 378 GT in Gulf oil colours – motorsport’s most royal of liveries.
At present AC has only announced plans to launch the AC 378 GT Zagato inthe UK priced at £89,990 andinGermanyfor€109,990 (+/– R1million).
