AC AC 2-litre DHC and Buckland (1285 – 1947) Review

AC AC 2-litre DHC and Buckland (1285 – 1947) At A Glance

4/5

+Good to drive, smooth six-cylinder power, great owners' club

-Genteel cars that have been overshadowed by their more glamorous successors

AC was another British manufacturer which resumed car production after world war two using a development of its pre-war products. Given that AC's cars were quality low-volume items anyway, and their appeal translated into the new era pretty effectively.  The 2-litre in two-door saloon and touring form was, powered by its gently sporting 2.0-litre six-cylinder engine, formed the heart of the range. A four-door was added to the range in 1953, by which time the already ageing triple-carb AC engine’s output had risen from 74bhp to 85bhp.

Bodies were built the traditional way - aluminium over a wood frame and steel chassis; suspension also harks back to days past with solid axles and transverse leaf springs at each end of the car. At least the dampers are hydraulic: an AC first. Cable rear brakes are fitted to early cars, with an all-hydraulic system from 1951. The DHC (drophead coupe) version of the saloon was in production for just one year, so few were built and all went for export – though most were still right-hand drive. However, the Buckland tourers were far more numerous. They were more rounded and featured a fold-flat windscreen. Later examples also received cutaway doors for an even more sporting look, though mechanically they were identical to the saloons - and therefore, not that exciting to drive. Just solid and rewarding.

Ask Honest John

I'm putting a modern Toyota engine in a classic 1949 AC - what will the tax be?

"I'm restoring a 1949 AC 2 litre saloon but expect to fit a 1990's Toyota 2.0 litre engine. What is likely to be the tax on this?"
You must update the details on your registration certificate (V5C) to tell DVLA about important changes you make to your vehicle, including engine changes. So you will need to give the DVLA evidence or written confirmation if you fit that Toyota 2.0-litre to your car. You'll need to provide either a receipt for the replacement engine, written evidence from the manufacturer, an inspection report provided for insurance purposes. Mark any changes on section seven of your V5C, sign it and send it to DVLA (Swansea, SA99 1DZ). If the change isn't listed in section seven, fill in section four and send it DVLA with evidence and a covering letter explaining the change. The DVLA with then contact you to confirm the change or tell you if it needs an inspection of if you have to pay more vehicle tax. I have asked the DVLA exactly what this change means for your situation, but haven't yet had an answer.
Answered by Keith Moody
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