1962 AC Ace - RS 5022

The 2.6 Ford engined variant of the Ace was introduced nearing the end of the production run only spanning two years from 1961-1963. As the Bristol engine supplies were thinning out, Ken Rudd proposed the use of the 2.6 zephyr power unit, allowing a lower bonnet line changing the styling of the front end, which has now become synonymous with that of the Cobra.
This motorcar (RS5022) was ordered by R. L Smith through Ken Rudd’s outfit K.N Rudd LTD of Worthing, and was delivered on the 20th April 1962 in the form of bright blue metalline with red leather interior. We are very familiar with this car as it was the AC owners club 2.6 Ace registrar’s since 2000, It was used under his ownership as a competition car in races such as:
- BRSCC ACE Challenge 2003 at Donington Park
- AMOC Sports Cars 2006 at Silverstone
- Bentley Drivers Club 60th Anniversary Ace Race 2014 at Silverstone
- Various Hillclimbs and AC Owners clubs Sprints
Under his ownership, we carried out a bodywork restoration in the late 2000’s and can report the car retains the matching numbers engine and chassis, alongside all the correct stampings on the bonnet boot and doors. After over two decades of ownership we brokered the sale for this unique motorcar and recommissioned it for the new owner, running through the fuel and braking system including foam filled aluminium fuel tank, new brake callipers and finally a full set of new period correct wheels with fresh 16 x 185 Avon tyres. Under the bonnet is an impressive sight of the ‘stage 5’ tuned 2.6 Ford engine with the aluminium Raymond Mays head of ERA fame, and period correct Italian weber carburettors. In the cabin is the plethora of smiths gauges alongside the wood rim Motolita steering wheel and a Delanair heater is also fitted.
In regards to competition fittings, there is a removable roll bar, 4-point lap harness for both driver and passenger, battery cut off switch and a handheld fire extinguisher. In the boot, there is a new 16-inch spare wheel with Avon tyre, full weather gear, tonneau, jack and copper hide hammer.

We would love to hear from anyone has more information on the car or would like to add to the history please feel free to contact us here at AC Heritage.