Ace Bristol Le Mans 1957 for Sale | Ex-Le Mans | Ken Rudd 1957 for sale

Very special: this is the official ex Le Mans Works car certified by AC Heritage. The same AC that was prepared in 1957 by Ken Rudd to participate in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The AC that finished second in the 2-liter class and tenth overall as the only production-based car in the race. This Ace was extensively re-engineered by Ken Rudd specifically for Le Mans. The original engine was replaced with a Bristol 100D2 unit prepared for racing, paired with a Bristol gearbox with revised ratios and a differential with a modified final drive ratio. The engine was enhanced with a compression ratio of 9.5 to 1, a more aggressive camshaft, and specially tuned Solex carburetors, optimized for the long straights of the Circuit de la Sarthe. The fuel tank was enlarged, while the original filler opening in the rear fender was carefully covered to reduce aerodynamic drag. The oil sump was fitted with baffles to prevent oil movement during prolonged high-speed running. At the front, the drum brakes were replaced with Girling disc brakes, combined with modified discs and Triumph TR3 calipers. Separate hydraulic reservoirs were installed for the braking and clutch systems. The original 15-inch wire wheels were replaced with 16-inch units. The bodywork was modified at AC Works in Thames Ditton, with a lower front profile, a completely flat underbody, additional ventilation openings in front of the doors, and an additional air intake in the hood. The windshield was replaced with a low plexiglass unit in accordance with Le Mans regulations. The car was finished in AC Works Green and the AC logo was applied to the nose for identification. The result was remarkable: 3,780.473 kilometers covered at an average speed of 97.9 mph, finishing just 55 miles behind a Ferrari 500 TRC Testa Rossa. An exceptional achievement. In 1958 the car was shipped to the United States where it was actively used in SCCA competition. Highlights include a second place at the 1958 Watkins Glen Grand Prix and a class win in 1959. The previous owner acquired the AC in 1963 and in 1972 the car was carefully preserved. Between 2019 and 2021 the car underwent a complete restoration and mechanical overhaul by Gassman Automotive in Virginia, with the aim of bringing it back to exactly the 1957 Le Mans specifications. The result is a rare and highly accurate restoration of an AC Works, accompanied by an exceptionally complete historical file that includes period photographs. Since its completion, the AC has been shown at various concours events including Hilton Head and The Greenbrier. Awards include Best in Class AC and Historically Significant Sports Car. A confirmed Works participant by AC Heritage. Former driver Ken Rudd. One of the most important AC models ever built. It is clear that this is truly an exceptional automobile. Gallery Aaldering has been active since 1975 and has extensive experience in exporting worldwide. We would be happy to assist you.