1985 AC Cobra (Mk IV) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The width of the AC Cobra Mk IV lies between 1735 mm and 1746 mm, which is roughly 68.3 inches to 68.7 inches (approximately 5.7 feet to 5.72 feet). This narrow width compared to modern vehicles allows for agile handling and ease when maneuvering through tight spaces, while still maintaining enough cabin width for a comfortable ride in this classic two-seater cabriolet.

The AC Cobra Mk IV's height ranges from 1200 mm to 1245 mm, equivalent to about 47.2 inches to 49 inches (around 3.93 to 4.08 feet). This low height emphasizes the car's sporty, aerodynamic profile, characteristic of classic roadsters. Its low roofline plays a major role in reducing drag while enhancing the aesthetic appeal and road feel, which enthusiasts prize in the Cobra series.

The curb weight of the AC Cobra Mk IV ranges from 900 kg to 1160 kg, translating into approximately 1984 lbs to 2557 lbs. Its maximum weight capacity lies between 1153 kg and 1360 kg, which converts to roughly 2543 lbs to 2998 lbs. This relatively light curb weight contributes to the vehicle’s agile handling characteristics and rapid acceleration, key features for performance-oriented driving in the car’s cabriolet format.

With the rear seats folded, the AC Cobra Mk IV offers a luggage capacity of 270 liters, which is about 9.53 cubic feet. This space is modest but practical for a sports car of its size and design, sufficient for small suitcases, shopping bags, or a weekend getaway kit in this classic two-seater convertible. It reflects the balance between sporty dynamics and everyday utility.

The AC Cobra Mk IV supports several tire sizes, including 225/60 R16, 225/65 VR15, 225/60 R16V, 255/60 R16V, 225/50 VR16, and 255/50 VR16. These tire sizes influence handling, grip, and ride comfort. The wider 255 options improve road holding and cornering stability, playing into the car’s sporty nature, while the aspect ratio and diameter affect ride smoothness and speed calibration. Selecting the right tire can optimize performance, safety, and driving experience for varied conditions.

Most standard residential garages have a width of about 2.4 to 2.7 meters (7.9 to 8.9 feet), a length of approximately 5 to 6 meters (16.4 to 19.7 feet), and a height clearance around 2.1 to 2.4 meters (6.9 to 7.9 feet). The AC Cobra Mk IV, with a width up to 1.746 meters (5.72 feet), length up to 4.2 meters (13.8 feet), and height around 1.245 meters (4.08 feet), fits comfortably within these dimensions. Therefore, it can easily park inside a standard garage, leaving ample space for opening doors and moving around the vehicle.

Compared to earlier AC Cobra generations, the Mk IV exhibits modest dimensional changes. The Mk IV is slightly longer, primarily due to design updates and structural reinforcements introduced from the 1990 production onwards. Width and height remain relatively consistent with its classic roadster lineage, ensuring it retains the agile handling and low profile iconic to Cobras. The enhanced chassis and moderate size increments contribute to improved safety, ride quality, and everyday usability, making it a contemporary evolution without losing the original spirit.

Within its class of classic cabriolet sports cars, the AC Cobra Mk IV is moderately compact and lightweight. Compared to rivals such as the Lotus Elan or the Triumph TR6, the Mk IV has a similar length (around 4.1 to 4.2 meters) but tends to be slightly wider and heavier, due to its robust build and larger engine options. The curb weight between 900 kg and 1160 kg (1984 to 2557 lbs) positions it as relatively light, enhancing acceleration and cornering. Its size provides a balance of agile driving dynamics and the stability expected from a high-performance roadster.

Produced from 1990 to 2001, the AC Cobra Mk IV blends classic British sports car aesthetics with modern engineering improvements. Its design remains true to the original Cobra’s ethos, featuring a cabriolet body style with a low-slung, muscular stance, but incorporates updated suspension, chassis reinforcements, and improved materials for enhanced safety and drivability. The Mk IV period saw incremental refinement rather than radical redesign, prioritizing the balance of heritage, performance, and usability, which sustains its status as a beloved roadster among enthusiasts.