AC Cobra 302 MKIV - SVO Lightweight Engine Conversion

1987 AC Cobra 302 Mk IV - Chassis No. AK1220

The AC Cobra 302 Mk IV was meticulously hand-built in Autokraft’s Brooklands workshops by a sixty-strong team of master craftsmen. Each car required approximately 900 hours to construct, a true testament to the marque’s commitment to quality and tradition.
While the Mk IV retained the timeless silhouette of the original Cobra, its design was refined to deliver greater comfort and usability. A larger cockpit and fully adjustable steering column accommodated drivers of all sizes, while the interior was luxuriously appointed in Connolly hide and Wilton carpets, complemented by a full suite of instruments.
Externally, the bodywork was fashioned from hand-rolled 16-gauge aluminium alloy, seam-welded using parent metal, a process that ensured both strength and authenticity.
Though visually faithful to the classic Cobra, the Mk IV incorporated significant improvements in chassis design, braking, steering, and suspension geometry. The result was a beautifully balanced and tractable sports car — one that maintained the heritage of a true English thoroughbred while delivering modern drivability.

This stunning 1987 AC Cobra 302 Mk IV, chassis number AK1220, was originally supplied new by Rod Leach’s “Nostalgia”, the sole authorised UK dealer for Autokraft Ltd.

Ordered new in November 1987, the first owner specified the car in Jaguar Westminster Blue with Burgundy Connolly leather and matching Burgundy Wilton carpets. A bespoke steering wheel boss, one of only two ever made, was fitted to bring the wheel slightly closer to the driver for improved comfort.

Under the bonnet lay the Ford Mustang 5.0L V8 (302 cu. in. High Output) engine, specially ordered with Holley carburettors and decat exhaust, producing around 245 bhp, 20 bhp more than the standard EFI setup. This £1,200 factory option made the car both rarer and more spirited.

Factory equipment included: Mota-Lita wood-rim steering wheel and gear knob, 16-inch black Hallibrand alloy wheels with three-spoke spinners, Glass wind wings and chrome stone guards, Pioneer Radio/Cassette, Full wet-weather gear and Everflex tonneau cover

Originally registered E79 GBH, the car was later reacquired by Rod Leach before being sold to its next owner in May 1989

Factory Performance Upgrade - In April 1990, the owner returned AK1220 to the Autokraft factory for a Stage 3 SVO Lightweight Engine Modification - one of only 20 right-hand-drive examples ever produced.

The upgrade included alloy cylinder heads, roller cams, larger valves, Holley carburettor, and a big-bore free-flow exhaust system, lifting output to approximately 345 bhp. Cast finned alloy rocker covers were also fitted. The registration was changed to YSV 427, which the car retains today. The original invoice for this work remains in the comprehensive history file.

Subsequent Ownership - In May 2005, Rod Leach sold the Cobra to its fifth owner, who maintained it meticulously for nine years before it joined our private collection in March 2014.

During our stewardship, the car was regularly detailed and serviced by Thunder Road Ltd in Woking, marque specialists in AC Cobras with no expense spared.

Following sales to discerning collectors between 2016 and 2023, the car remained in exceptional condition, covering only a few hundred miles across all ownerships.

In March 2023, the car was reacquired by its former and second owner, Mr. Parnell, who briefly enjoyed it once more before returning it to us this year.

Today, AK1220 resides proudly in our showroom, presented in the same stunning condition as when we first acquired it - a pristine, unmolested example of this sought after model.

AK1220 is offered with an extensive, beautifully organized history file, including:

Original owner’s handbook

Comprehensive service records and MOT certificates

Original AC sales brochure

Factory jack, spare wheel, two keys, and indoor car cover

This car remains exactly as delivered new in 1987 and as updated by the factory in 1990 with the SVO engine conversion, totally original, unmodified, and in superb condition.

Without question, this is one of the finest AC Cobra Mk IVs available anywhere in the world today and benefits from a fresh and extensive service carried out by marque specialist Redline Engineering Ltd.

Please contact our sales team to discuss the illustrious history and availability of this exceptional AC Cobra.