1981 AC 3000
The dramatic 3000ME was first shown in 1973 but did not actually go on sale until 1979. It was based on a design developed by Lola engineers Peter Bohanna and Robin Stables while working after hours in the Lola drawing office creating the diabolo, after AC acquired the rights at the 1973 London Motor Show; AC Offering an intoxicating blend of Italian style, supercar looks and a mid-mounted Ford 3-litre V6 engine with a 5-speed Hewland gearbox and 120mph performance, it looked set to be another winner but sadly this was not to be. The combination of a worldwide recession and the poor health of company owner Derek Hurlock meant that AC went bust in 1985 after just over 100 examples had been made.
ThisThames Ditton 3000me has a extensive history file, showing thousands of pounds of invoices and receipts, some of the work includes:
- New Brake callipers, Ball joints, Driveshafts, Wishbones
- Gearbox Overhaul and strengthened by specialist Dave Harris.
- Hyvo Chain with tensioner
- Chassis and suspension overhaul.
- Cylinder Heads refurbished and ported with larger inlet valves.
This is only a short insight to the vast amount of effort that has been poured into this ME. This car pulls strongly using a Webber DFI 40 Carburettor which makes this significantly more powerful than standard, with light handling and great stopping power. This car has been meticulously maintained mechanically, however it does show some age cosmetically with visible paint imperfections, in addition to this there is a tear in the passenger seat on the centre panel seam. This is still a very respectable example of such a rare piece of AC history.
1981 AC 3000 ME
Chassis No. ME116
Engine No. S-11
- SOLD -