The first batch of new "born-again" AC Cobras have arrived in the UK, offering the choice of petrol or electric power. However, the "faithful recreations" of Carroll Shelby's fire-spitting sports car are being offered to British customers without the classic V8 engine, with more modern forms of propulsion on the menu.

Buyers in the UK get the choice of a Ford 2.3-litre petrol engine or an electric motor. The former is the same four-cylinder unit found in entry-level versions of the Mustang, while the latter offers a silent, zero-emission alternative. Both powertrains are being fitted by AC Cars' Derby-based technical partner, Falcon Electric.

Those engines form the basis of two special-edition Cobras, each of which will be limited to just 58 examples. AC Cars says that number is significant because it is now 58 years since the Cobra was first created.