AC Cobra: The Truth Behind the Anglo-American Legend
By Rinsey Mills
So you think you know the Cobra story? Well, maybe not entirely. Countless books and magazine articles have been written about Carroll Shelby’s famed Cobras and their many successes on and off the track. However, the design and genesis of the Cobra program—and the influence of the AC Car Company—are areas where much debate still exists.
In “AC Cobra—The Truth Behind the Anglo-American Legend,” Rinsey Mills takes a very different position on the development of the Cobra. Rejecting historical accounts that all but dismiss the influence of John Tojeiro and the AC Car Company, Mills tells the story of the Cobra as seen from the British, rather than American, perspective. While seldom promoted by American enthusiasts, Mills examines the genesis of the Cobra from a backyard special built by a young John Tojeiro, to its 10-year production run as the AC Ace, then into its rebirth as the Shelby AC Cobra.
In addition to this revisionist view of the Cobra’s early days, the majority of “AC Cobra” chronicles the racing exploits of the Cobra, both in America and overseas. With 160 pages of nicely reproduced photographs, documents and memorabilia, this book is an excellent look at the history of this most venerable racing icon. While debate will always abound about the relative contributions of Carroll Shelby and the AC Car Company, this book does an excellent job of promoting one side of the story that is not often heard.
Available for $35.95 (USA) from Classic Motorbooks at (800) 826-6600 www.motorbooks.com. £19.95 (U.K.) from Haynes Publishing at 01963 442080 www.haynes.co.uk
