Description
Registration: 603 UXT
Chassis No.: MA-200
Engine No.: 1445
-Unique factory prototype
-Powered by a 4. 7-litre Ford V8 engine
-Known and documented ownership history
-Professionally restored in the USA (2006–2010)
-2010 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance class winner
-Extensive accompanying history file
The 1963 AC MA-200 is a captivating "what-if" story in British automotive history, offering a glimpse of what could have succeeded the AC Ace had the company not shifted focus to building Carroll Shelby's iconic Cobra. The "MA" chassis prefix likely refers to Zdzislaw Marczewski, AC’s Polish engineer and former RAF bomber pilot. Marczewski, who joined AC Cars after working at General Aircraft, was instrumental in numerous engineering projects for the company and even developed a range of horizontally opposed engines, including a 2. 4-litre six-cylinder intended for the Ace’s potential successor. Ultimately, practicality won out, and the MA-200 was equipped with a more cost-effective and powerful 4. 7-litre Ford V8—the same engine that made the Cobra legendary.
The resulting prototype was an advanced sports car, larger than the Ace and Cobra, built on a spaceframe chassis (96-inch wheelbase) with sleek, Italian-inspired aluminum bodywork. Its engineering was equally forward-thinking, featuring all-around independent suspension with coil springs, cantilevered upper links, and wishbones at the front, and struts with wishbones at the rear—a departure from AC’s traditional live rear axle. The car also boasted inboard rear disc brakes and high-mounted rack-and-pinion steering, making it one of the most sophisticated sports cars of its time.
Early History and Design Development
Registered as "6000 PE" on November 19, 1963, the MA-200 was driven extensively by AC’s managing director, Derek Hurlock, before entering private ownership in 1968. It was purchased by Dr. Roger Field of Kent, who placed it in storage and replaced the original engine with another Ford V8 during his ownership. AC Cars serviced the vehicle in 1969, and a copy of their invoice is included in its history file. Notably, Road & Track magazine featured a photo of the car in its December 1964 issue, fueling speculation as a potential "prototype AC Cobra."
After Dr. Field’s passing in 1983, the car was sold to Peter Hague of Chichester, then to Jeremy Davidson in 1985, and finally to Robert James Edwards in 1997.
Restoration and Awards
In 2006, collector and SCCA member Mark Gold discovered the car advertised as an AC V8 prototype and purchased it, shipping it to Miami, Florida. During this period, the Ford V8 installed by Dr. Field was identified as an early GT40 program engine. To restore originality, it was replaced with another V8 closely matching the original’s manufacturing date (engine no. 1445). The Creative Workshop in Dania Beach, Florida, undertook a meticulous restoration, prioritizing original components wherever possible. Their dedication was rewarded when MA-200 won "Best in Class – Sports and GT Cars 1962–1970" at the 2010 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. The car also earned accolades at the 36th Concours d'Elegance of America in Plymouth, Michigan, in 2014.
Recent History and Provenance
After being carefully maintained and sparingly driven under Mark Gold’s ownership, the MA-200 returned to the UK in 2021. It is now registered as "603 UXT." This unique factory prototype has been featured in publications such as Classic ACs - Auto-Carrier to Cobra by John McLellan and is prominently documented in The Shelby Registry under the chapter "The Lost Prototype."
Accompanied by a comprehensive history file containing original documents, drawings, photographs, correspondence, restoration invoices, registration papers, and more, this one-of-a-kind AC is a remarkable piece of the company’s heritage and a testament to its engineering ambition.
POA
To find out more about this significant motorcar please contact our sales team for further details, viewing by prior appointment. Tel: +44(0)the details below
