A rare 1969 AC 428 Coupe by Frua, one of 51 built, offers classic style and V8 power with rich history.
The 1969 AC 428 Coupe by Frua, an exquisite blend of British engineering and Italian coachbuilding, stands as a testament to mid-20th century automotive craftsmanship. This particular model, chassis CFX28, is one of just 51 coupes produced during the model's seven-year production run, making it a rare gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Designed as a successor to the legendary AC Cobra, the AC 428 debuted at the 1965 Earls Court Motor Show, with production beginning shortly thereafter. Each car featured a stretched derivative of the Cobra Mark III chassis, shipped to Turin, Italy, to be adorned with bespoke coachwork by Pietro Frua before returning to England for the installation of a Ford 428ci FE V8 engine. While most were right-hand drive, this left-hand-drive example adds to its rarity, as only about 12 were built in this configuration.
Classic Styling with Modern Comforts
Finished in silver, this coupe boasts a timeless design characterized by a split front bumper, fender louvers, glass B-pillar vents, and dual fuel fillers. Its bright 15-inch wire wheels, secured with two-eared knock-offs, are fitted with period-correct Vredestein Sprint Classic tires. Inside, the cabin exudes vintage luxury with black leather bucket seats, gray carpeting, and a wood-rimmed steering wheel framing Smiths instrumentation.
Additional features, such as power windows and an eight-track player, add a touch of mid-century sophistication. Notably, the oil temperature gauge and fuel-level sender were rebuilt in 2024, though the clock remains nonfunctional.
Performance and Provenance
Under the hood lies a Ford 428ci V8, factory-rated at 345 horsepower and 462 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Ford C6 three-speed automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential. Recent service in 2023 included fluid changes and the replacement of spark plugs and the battery, ensuring it runs as beautifully as it looks.
Initially delivered to the U.S., this car spent 11 years in a private collection before being recommissioned by its current owner in 2023. It has traveled only 17,000 miles, approximately 90 of which were added under current ownership.
