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1952 Bristol 401

United Kingdom • 19 Jun 2024

Vehicle Details

AI Listing Summary

This 1952 Bristol 401, one of only 618 ever made, is presented in fine, usable order. It features matching chassis and engine numbers, benefits from an earlier extensive repaint and recommission, and has been recently maintained by Bristol specialists, making it a potentially good investment for collectors.

Condition

7

The car is described as being in 'very good' condition overall, with the paint work still appearing 'very good' all over and with the mechanics being rated as 'excellent'. It has been maintained to a high standard. There is no mention of any significant flaws or damage.

/ 10

Transmission:

Manual

Chassis No:

4011094

Odometer:

[Odometer Reading]

Reg Number:

VSJ 780

RHD/LHD:

RHD

Registration No : VSJ 780 Chassis No : 401/1094 MOT : Exempt "This, indeed, is the car for the connoisseur.

It can only be modesty on the part of the Bristol publicity boys which has prevented them from quoting as the 401's slogan 'The Best Car in Britain'" (Motor Sport magazine, January 1953).

Introduced in Autumn 1949, the 401 was characterised by its super-smooth, aerodynamic bodywork.

Honed in the Bristol Aeroplane Company's wind tunnel and built using Milanese coachbuilder Touring's ‘Superleggera’ technique, it boasted a commendably lithe kerb weight (c.2,700lbs).

Equipped with transverse-leaf independent front suspension and hydraulic drum brakes, the newcomer proved a notably fine handler taking Touring Class wins on both the Cannes and Tulip Rallies during 1951.

Powered by a 1971cc OHV straight-six engine allied to four-speed manual transmission, the elegant sports saloon promised nigh-on 100mph performance.

Only in production for four years (by which time a mere 618 are ...