AN INCREDIBLE supercar that’s one of just 10 ever made has been sold by a mysterious car collector.
The rare motor’s current owner says he has “too many cars”, and is keen to let someone else enjoy it.
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The little-known AC 378 GT Zagato, designed by legendary Italian coachbuilder Zagato and powered by a V8 engine from General Motors, similar to that in the Chevrolet Camaro, was built between 2012 and 2013 in South Africa.
Produced in collaboration between South African specialty manufacturer Hi-Tech Automotive and Zagato, the car boasts a number of striking style elements, including its long-hood and short-rear profile to help it achieve the look of a more classic sports car.
Indeed, petrolheads may somewhat recognise the front-end, as it was strongly influenced by the 2005 Ferrari 575 GTZ Zagato and spliced with the iconic AC Cobra.
With that monstrous all-American V8, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds and hit a top speed of 185 mph.
The AC 378 GT was designed as a grand tourer, offering a range of standard amenities for driver comfort, including a gorgeous leather and Alcantara upholstery.
However, safety features like traction control and anti-lock brakes were not considered during the motor’s creation, emphasising its raw sports car nature.
This example, which features a Dodge Viper-style Steel Gray finish, is currently being auctioned on the SBX Cars online site – with bidding to end on November 12.
SBX Cars claim it’s one of just 10 ever made.
The car’s wealthy owner, Lance Stander, CEO and founder of Hillbank Motorsports, recently revealed to Robb Report that he first sold the car to a Texas entrepreneur around a decade ago, but bought it back last summer.
He said: “I always loved the car, and when the owner called asking if I was interested in buying, I jumped at it.
“I have great memories of driving through the Colorado Rockies, enjoying its remarkable performance and handling.
“Trouble is, I have too many cars, so when SBX approached me, it seemed like a good idea to sell and let someone else enjoy the car.”
Stander believes the car has since been fitted with a polished Vortech supercharger, courtesy of the previous owner.
What’s more, the interior has been retrimmed in black and coffee brown, using the same kind of leather supplied to Ferrari.
Stander added: “For me, the appeal of the car is its exclusivity.
“People go crazy when they see it, but have absolutely no clue what it is.
“Everywhere I park, it gets much more attention than any Ferrari.
“And, of course, with that big American V8 and very loud exhaust, it does sound amazing.”
This comes as a Jaguar sports car that was first seen over 10 years ago but was never put into production has finally been made road legal.
The elusive motor made its first appearance at the 2010 Paris Motor Show and even featured in a famous scene in a James Bond film – but was never made available for wealthy petrolheads to buy.
And a Hollywood mega-star’s vintage 1958 Ferrari has been pulled from an upcoming auction after doubts were raised over its true history.
A row has erupted between the auction house and members of an online owners’ forum over whether the motor is the genuine article.
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