Yes, yes, I know. We're supposed to be totally enraptured by Carroll Shelby's Cobras, unquestionably one of the world's great sports cars. Like the rest of you, I'm in awe, nevertheless I prefer the original AC Ace, the car that gave its chassis, frame, and good looks to the Cobra. Why? Because the Ace is clean and elegant in appearance, unsullied by bulging fenders, fat tires, and Ford V-8 engines. That's why I was delighted to see this Ace at the 2009 Vancouver All British show. After all, they're scarce in numbers, especially in North America.

The manufacturer, however, was not adverse to offering the Ace with several different engines, including its own. His aluminum block AC 2-liter six dates back to 1922 but its long stroke is smooth and full of torque, more than the 90 horses would suggest. A 2553 cc Ford Zephyr six pushed the power to 120 hp with an optional tuned 170 hp. But the most exotic AC came with a Bristol 1971 cc straight six that drew from a racing heritage. This high-revver produced 125 hp at 6000 rpm and made a delicious sound at speed. All ACs were light in weight with aluminum bodies, ladder chassis, fully-independent suspension, and ultra-quick steering with only two turns lock-to-lock. Though not as fast as Shelby's Cobra in a straight line, they cost half as much and, I suggest, are just as much fun. Jonathan Parker is the proud owner of this 1960 example.