Cliff Davis's Ferrari 166-inspired barchetta bodywork of his Tojeiro sports racer was successful enough to prompt AC Cars to put the design into production in 1954 as the Ace. The barchetta bodywork and John Tojeiro's twin-tube ladder frame chassis remained, as did the Cooper-influenced all-independent suspension. The engine, however, was AC's own 2-liter, long-stroke six. A hardtop version - the fastback-styled Aceca coupe - made its debut at the Earls Court Motor Show in 1954. This hand-formed body was made from aluminum over a tubular steel framework. All major components rested on rubber bushes to help reduce noise levels within the cabin.

Along with the Aston Martin DB2/4, the Aceca was one of the first hatchback designs.

During the car's production lifespan, very few alterations were made to the Aceca apart from a change of engines. In total, there were just 151 examples produced with the AC six.

The car was set to auction in 1986 and subsequently advertised by classic car dealer Nigel Dawes later that year. The Aceca then made its way across the Atlantic and underwent a comprehensive rebuild in recent years for the Texas-based owner. The car is currently finished in red with tan upholstery with blue piping and matching blue carpets.

In 2013, the car was offered for sale at the Bonhams Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. It was estimated to sell for $85,000 - $100,000. Bidding failed to satisfy the vehicle's reserve and it would leave the auction unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2013