Lot 018: 1983 AC 3000 ME

Although, the AC 3000ME prototype debuted at the 1973 Earls Court Motor Show, difficulties in obtaining Type Approval meant that it would be another six years before the mid-engined sportscar entered production. Hailed as the British equivalent of the Lancia Stratos - both machines featuring wedge-shaped styling, fibreglass bodywork and proprietary V6 engines - its 'bathtub' steel chassis played host to substantial front / rear subframes and an integral roll-over bar. Equipped with all-round independent double-wishbone suspension, rack and pinion steering and four-wheel disc brakes, the model boasted a rearward 40:60 weight bias and excellent handling. Transversely mid-mounted, the 2994cc Ford powerplant was allied to AC's own five-speed manual gearbox (albeit with Hewland internals) via a Reynold triplex chain system. With some 138bhp and 192lbft of torque on tap, the lightweight 3000ME (1085kg) was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds and over 120mph. Some seventy-six cars were produced at AC's Thames Ditton factory before manufacture switched to AC (Scotland) Ltd in 1984 where another thirty were built. For many the last true AC - and certainly the final model in which the Hurlock family had a hand - the 3000ME has long been collectible. Finished in French Blue with optional black leather upholstery, this particular example is understood to have had just one previous keeper. Entering the current (second) ownership in 1987, 'UTN 1N' has apparently been "garaged since 1991". Believed but not warranted to have covered some 46,000 miles from new, the AC is said to be in "running order" but to "require thorough recommissioning". We are informed that the fuel tank in particular "needs attention". Sporting Wolfrace alloy wheels and a stainless steel exhaust, this rare 3000ME is only being offered for sale due to emigration.