Responsible since its 1946 inception for a succession of highly capable and individualistic grand tourers, Bristol has always remained aloof from the constraints of contemporary automotive fashion.

Introduced in 1976, the 603 proved no exception.

Available initially in either 5.2-litre E (Economy) or 5.9-litre S (Sports) guises, it was far more exclusive than its rivals from Bentley and Aston Martin.

Something akin to a (Detroit) iron fist in a velvet glove, the 603's typically restrained two-door saloon bodywork constructed in aluminium belied its strong performance potential.

With 172bhp and 270lb ft of torque on tap from the larger of the two Chrysler-supplied V8 engines, it was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 7.6 seconds and 135mph.

Tempered by independent coil and wishbone front and torsion bar rear suspension, the 603 was easily reined in by powerful all-round disc brakes boosted by twin servos.

Equipped with automatic transmission, power-assisted steering and air condition...