A RARE gem from the golden era of British motoring, the 1957 AC Aceca-Bristol, has resurfaced in stunning form after a globe-trotting life and a £315,000 restoration.
Originally completed on March 19, 1957, this striking model was first delivered to Jack Fernandez in Venezuela. By October that same year, it was back on British roads and remained in the UK for the next 35 years, competing in various events that cemented its reputation as a driver’s car.
Its spirited journey continued when Adrian Hall acquired it and entered the AC into Mexico’s legendary Carrera Panamericana rally in 1991.
Three years later, a prominent collector in California added it to his stable. The Aceca-Bristol would go on to feature in renowned US events such as the Copperstate 1000, California Mille, and the Sonoma Historic Motorsports Festival at Laguna Seca, among others.
In 2017, a passionate British sports car enthusiast brought the car back to the UK. The decision was made to return the Aceca to its former glory, enlisting the skilled hands at Stanton Motorsports in Berkshire.
The meticulous restoration included a full chassis strip-down, engine and gearbox rebuild, complete interior retrim, and fresh paintwork.
By mid-2021, even before the restoration was officially complete, the rejuvenated Aceca was already back in action, tackling the 582-mile West Highland Cloverleaf rally and later the prestigious Royal Automobile Club Rally of the Tests.
Finished in vivid red with white racing roundels, the Aceca boasts a race-ready interior featuring red leather bucket seats with harnesses, auxiliary PIAA rally lights, a roll cage, and a Moto-Lita steering wheel. It’s a perfect mix of classic elegance and motorsport toughness.
Whether cruising through scenic landscapes or tearing up a historic track, this 1957 AC Aceca-Bristol proves that true motoring icons never fade.
Source: Extracts from rmsothebys.com/auctions/ch25/lots/r0015-1957-ac-acecabristol
