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AC Ghia

1981Coachwork by Ghia

THE VEHICLE AT A GLANCE

Model dossier

Production period
1981
Body style
Coupé
Engine
V6
Type
Concept
Production
1
Displacement
2,994 cc
Power
138 hp

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE CAR

Coachbuilding, design & conversions

PRICE & SALES RECORD

Vehicle value

Original price
Not documented
Latest recorded sale
Not documented

01 / THE STORY

History & context

The AC Ghia, a concept sports car, was introduced to the public at the 1981 Geneva Motor Show. Designed by the renowned Carrozzeria Ghia, it showcased the company’s exceptional ability to blend innovative engineering with striking aesthetics. The AC Ghia was built on the AC ME 3000 chassis, known for its mid-engine configuration, which provided the car with excellent balance and handling, making it a promising candidate for a performance-oriented sports car. The design of the AC Ghia was sleek and aerodynamic, with a front end that featured two distinct sets of headlights. One set was integrated into the front spoiler, providing a clean, aggressive look, while the other set was hidden behind retractable flaps, adding to the car’s futuristic appearance. This unique design choice not only improved the car’s visual appeal but also helped to minimize drag when the headlights were retracted. The rear pillars of the vehicle were equipped with cut-outs to improve rear visibility, enhancing both the car’s functional performance and its dynamic design. Functionality was a key focus of the AC Ghia’s design. Air ducts were placed behind the doors to channel airflow to the engine and brakes, helping to cool critical components during high-performance driving. These thoughtful design elements ensured the car would perform well on the road, combining style with technical sophistication. In addition to the AC Ghia, Ghia also extended the ME 3000 chassis to build the Quicksilver, a unique mid-engined sedan with four doors and four seats. The Quicksilver shared the same attractive design sensibility as the AC Ghia but catered to a different market, offering a more practical, family-friendly configuration without sacrificing style or performance. The AC Ghia remains an iconic concept that exemplifies Ghia’s expertise in blending performance, innovative design, and luxury. Although it never entered production, its bold design and technical features left a lasting impression on the automotive world.

02 / TECHNICAL IDENTITY

Specifications & construction

Production & construction

Production
1
Production type
Concept

Engine & performance

Engine configuration
V6
Displacement
2,994 cc
Power (hp)
138 hp
Engine speed
5,000 rpm
Torque
235 Nm
Drive
Rear-wheel drive
Specification notes
1981 AC Ghia concept retained the AC 3000ME mechanical package: transverse Ford V6 2994 cc, 138 hp at 5000 rpm, 235 Nm, RWD, wheelbase 2300 mm, dimensions 4000 × 1650 × 1170 mm. No later Scottish/Alfa-engined 3000ME developments are inherited.

Dimensions & accommodation

Wheelbase
2,300 mm
Length
4,000 mm
Width
1,650 mm
Height
1,170 mm

Design & manufacture

Coachbuilder / Body Builder · Documented
Ghia
Manufacturer · Documented
AC

06 / EVENTS & AWARDS

Events & awards

No events or documented awards are currently recorded for this vehicle.

08 / FROM THE ARCHIVE

Archive

References held in the vehicle dossier. Their inclusion does not establish that every historical claim has been independently verified.

ReferenceSource type
1981 AC Ghia / 3000ME concept www.allcarindex.com Specialist concept reference
1981 AC ME3000 (Ghia) www.carstyling.ru Design history reference

THE CONVERSATION

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