1963 AC Greyhound

The AC Greyhound was a front engine, rear-wheel-drive two-door coupe that could seat four in considerable luxury with a distinctive body that appeared more svelte than earlier post-war ACs. It was made from 1959 to 1963.

The prototype of the AC Greyhound was displayed at the 1959 Earls Court Motor Show, with a modified chassis from the AC Aceca and elegant coachwork that blended aluminium with GRP rear wheel arches and bulkhead. Full production commenced in the following year, when the body was modified with a new rear screen and nose, and a stronger square-section chassis was employed.

The choice of engines was most commonly from Bristol in various degrees of tune, although AC and Ruddspeed-tuned Ford units were also available; only three Greyhounds are believed to have been powered by the last-named plant. The suspension was by independent coil springs and wishbones at the front and independent coil springs with semi-trailing arms. The Greyhound had front disc and rear drum brakes and rack-and-pinion steering. Wire wheels were standard equipment and the cabin was trimmed to an extremely high standard.

Production of the AC Greyhound ceased in 1963 after 84 cars were made.

The AC Greyhound was powered by various engines: 1,991cc S6 OHC with triple SU carburettors, 1,971cc OHV with three Solex carbs, 2,215cc S6 OHV with three Solex carbs, and a 2,553cc S6 OHV which was available with triple Weber carbs. There was a choice of four-speed manual gearboxes, either all-synchromesh or without synchro on the bottom gear. Overdrive on the top ratio was optional.

Over the years too many AC Greyhounds were cannibalised for their Bristol engines and several were fitted with Triumph 2.5-litre plants, but they are now increasingly appreciated for their prowess as a long-distance tourer. The Greyhound’s electrics should be inspected as one in need of rewiring can be a substantial project, and the AC can suffer from tired springs and differential mounts. The chassis should be checked for rust, especially around the jacking points and suspension mounts while the body should be checked at the base of the A-pillars.

Alternatives to the AC Greyhound included the Aston Martin DB4 and the Jensen 541S.