Specifications

Engine: 6 cylinders, 1991 cc, 70 horsepower.
Version: Special Wide Track 4/5 Seat Drophead Coupe
Transmission: Rear-wheel drive, 4-speed synchronized gearbox.
Brakes: Self-tightening Bendix with cable control.
Maximum Speed: 135 km/h.
Elegant bodywork with lift-up side windows and an easy-to-mount soft top.
The first example in a limited production of only 5 cars in this version.
The AC 16/70 is part of the famous 16/ series, known for its quality and performance, typical of the British luxury automobile era of the 1930s.

History of AC Cars and the Context of the Era

AC Cars, one of the oldest British car manufacturers, was renowned for its sports and luxury cars. The Series 16, including the 16/56, 16/66, 16/60, 16/70, 16/80, and 16/90, was launched in the mid-1930s and produced about 600 units. The 6-cylinder engine of this series, designed in 1919, remained in production until 1963, marking an exceptional longevity in automotive history.
In the 1930s, the British car market was characterized by a quest for elegance and performance. AC cars, with their handmade construction and attention to detail, met this demand. Their aluminum construction on an ash wood frame and steel wings, on a chassis shared with the Jaguar SS90, attest to their quality.
This magnificent 1938 AC 16/70 Special Wide Track 4/5 Seat Drophead Coupe is a must-have for any pre-war British collection. It's the first example of a production limited to only 5 cars, also known as the Special Wide Track 4/5 Seat Drophead Coupe, as mentioned by Rinsey Mills in his book "AC in detail". This AC is a pleasure to drive. It's smooth and offers good power thanks to its "modern" engine. The 4-speed gearbox is easy to use, and it benefits from good suspension, precise steering, and effective brakes.

This car is distinguished by its inline 6-cylinder engine of 1991 cc with overhead camshaft and three SU carburetors, developing 70 horsepower. With a 4-speed synchronized gearbox and self-tightening Bendix brakes, it combines performance and elegance. A car that can drive over 100 km/h.
The car's history traces back to Richard B. Lee, its owner until 1980 in Ohio, USA. It was then acquired by William L. Snyder, who kept it from 1980 to 2003 (Ohio, USA), before selling it to John Clinton Graves in Arizona. Mr. Graves was the keeper until 2015, when it was sold to Mr. Duncan Wood in Texas, USA. The current owner acquired the car in 2017.
Since then, it has participated in prestigious events such as the 2018 Rallye des Fougères, the 2019 Enghien les Bains Concours d'Élégance, and the 2020 Rétroviseur.

AS Classic Engineering has performed a thorough restoration on it, now showcasing a sophisticated midnight blue color with a complementing brown interior. The restoration process saw an investment exceeding 180,000€.