AC 2-Litre
Post-war British elegance powered by a legendary overhead-cam straight-six.
- Power
- 74 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 19.9 s
- Top speed
- 81 mph
- Est. value
- $15k–$56k
About the AC 2-Litre
Introduced in 1947, the AC 2-Litre was a sophisticated post-war saloon that combined traditional coachbuilding with a remarkably long-lived engine. Its 1991cc straight-six, designed by John Weller in 1922, featured an aluminium block and triple SU carburettors, providing smooth delivery that outclassed many contemporary rivals. The car utilised an aluminium body over an ash wood frame, mounted on a steel chassis with underslung rear springs for a lower profile. While its beam-axle suspension was conservative for the era, the 2-Litre was praised for its high-quality leather interior and excellent visibility, serving as a refined precursor to the more famous Ace sports car.
AC 2-Litre specs
The AC 2-Litre produces 74 bhp (55 kW) and 129 Nm (95 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 19.9 seconds and has a top speed of 81 mph (130 km/h).
| Make | AC |
|---|---|
| Model | 2-Litre |
| Trim | 2.0 |
| Years | 1947–1958 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 1,284 built |
| Engine | 2.0-litre SOHC straight-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,991 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 74 bhp (55 kW) at 4,500 rpm |
| Torque | 129 Nm (95 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 19.9 s |
| Top speed | 81 mph (130 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,321 kg (2,912 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 56 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an AC 2-Litre worth?
A typical AC 2-Litre is estimated to be worth $15,000 – $56,000 (about £11,000 – £42,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
AC 2-Litre rarity in CarSpot
The AC 2-Litre is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 56 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
AC 2-Litre fun facts
- The 2.0-litre engine used in this car was so robust that it remained in production for over 40 years, eventually powering the early AC Ace roadsters.
- Early models featured a hybrid braking system with hydraulic drums at the front and mechanical cable-operated drums at the rear.
- The car's aluminium-over-wood construction was a hallmark of high-end British manufacturing, helping to keep the weight down to approximately 1,320kg.
