Lot 22: AC Greyhound Coupe

A new addition to the AC range, the Greyhound made its debut in 1959 and was a sleek four-seat sports coupé with exceptionally well balanced lines based on an elongated version of the chassis used by its Ace and Aceca siblings.  The aluminium coachwork was built upon a multi-tubular steel frame and the Greyhound offered spacious accommodation in its luxurious cabin with the added advantage of ample luggage space, making it an ideal grand tourer.  The specification included all-round coil sprung independent suspension, rack and pinion steering and front disc brakes. Available until 1963 with a production run of just 83, the vast majority of Greyhounds were powered by the 2-litre or 2.2 Bristol engine.  However, a handful used the original 2-litre AC unit and a small number, believed to be possibly three, were fitted with the Ford 2.6-litre Zephyr unit.  The price of such exclusivity, however, was extremely high with the Greyhound costing a daunting £3087 1s. 5d. including purchase tax in 1961 (compared with the cost of a Cobra which was to cost £2,386 12s. 9d. when introduced the following year).  Of the 83 Greyhounds built, it is understood that some 66 are known to the AC Owners' Club today. This example, Chassis No. 2523, still bears its original West Sussex registration number and has been the subject of an extensive chassis-up restoration at vast expenditure.  The suspension has been renewed and Aston Martin wire wheels fitted.  The twin exhaust system has been renewed in stainless steel and further work carried out has included a full re-wire and renewal of the dashboard and front and rear screens.  As well as the engine being overhauled, all instrumentation is said to have been attended to.  A re-paint in Aston Martin metallic green and a re-trim in green hide, together with all brightwork fully re-plated has ensured that the motor car is of truly fine appearance.  Powered by a 2½ -litre, 6-cylinder Triumph engine fitted with an overdrive transmission (at least one other Greyhound is known to have benefited from this upgrade) the car is said to drive exceptionally well. A rare and desirable thoroughbred motor car, this AC is offered with an extensive file of documentation which should be inspected by serious interested parties.  This file also includes a Swansea registration document and MOT certificate valid until 18th February 2008.