AC Ace & Aceca
The AC Ace is the beautiful British roadster that served as the foundation for the Shelby Cobra. Its lightweight aluminum body and nimble chassis make it a highly desirable collector car, especially when equipped with the potent Bristol inline-6 engine.
AC Ace & Aceca sold for a median of $90,867 over the last 12 months, based on 10 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $37,395 and $135,910. 17 currently for sale.
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41 listed in the past year. The last was 2 weeks ago.
AC Ace & Aceca prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1954 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
| 1955 | $79k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1956 | $410k | – | 1 | 2 |
| 1957 | $243k | $161k–$291k | 5 | 2 |
| 1958 | $206k | $132k–$237k | 6 | 3 |
| 1959 | $221k | – | 2 | 2 |
| 1960 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
| 1962 | $320k | – | 3 | 0 |
| 1963 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The AC Ace debuted in 1953, featuring a lightweight aluminum body over a simple ladder frame. It was a revelation, offering superb handling thanks to its 4-wheel independent suspension. Initially powered by AC's own 2.0-liter inline-6, the car gained a significant performance boost in 1956 with the optional 2.0-liter Bristol inline-6. The fixed-head coupe, called the Aceca, arrived in 1954, offering a more refined grand touring experience with the same sporting dynamics.
The Ace's place in history was cemented when Carroll Shelby chose it as the basis for the Shelby Cobra. This connection gives the Ace immense historical significance and drives much of its collectibility. Enthusiasts prize the cars for their stunning looks, analog driving experience, and eligibility for vintage racing events. The Bristol-engined cars are the most sought-after, representing the ultimate evolution of the pre-Cobra Ace.
The market for the Ace and Aceca is diverse, with values heavily dependent on engine type and originality. Bristol-powered cars command significant premiums, often fetching twice the price of their AC-engined counterparts. Original, well-documented cars are scarce and command top dollar, while cars with replacement engines or in need of restoration are more accessible but represent a major investment to put right.
Buying Tips
- Verify the engine's originality. Bristol-powered cars are most valuable, but many have received non-original engines over time.
- Inspect the aluminum bodywork carefully for galvanic corrosion where it meets the steel chassis, and for signs of poor accident repair.
- Check the steel tube chassis for rust and damage, especially at the suspension mounting points and outriggers.
- Documenting provenance is critical. A continuous history, especially with period racing success, can dramatically increase a car's value.
261 AC Ace & Aceca vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 17 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an AC Ace & Aceca cost?
Over the last 12 months, AC Ace & Aceca sold for a median of $90,867 across 10 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $37,395 and $135,910. There are 17 currently for sale.
How many AC Ace & Aceca listings are for sale right now?
There are 17 AC Ace & Aceca listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.