Description
This is a 1961 Bristol 406 Saloon RHD finished in burgundy with grey leather interior and 68, 000 miles on the clock.
‘Ownership of a Bristol has always said something about the owner. It says that here is a free thinker, an iconoclast, an individual; someone who ploughs his or her own furrow, takes the road less travelled and is resolutely beyond the reach of anything as vulgar as fashion, fancy or whim.’ The late (and very great) journalist LJK Setright.
The 406 two-door saloon introduced in 1957 was the last of the Filton-engined Bristols, its OHV straight-six pushrod engine fed by triple Solex carburettors having been enlarged to 2216cc to try to compete with the more modern powerpacks offered by Bristol's competition, and now known as the 'Bristol 110 Series'. It was identified by the absence of the then-familiar bonnet scoop of its predecessors and was one of the first saloon cars of its class to feature disc brakes on all four wheels. Just 174 examples of the model were built.
An older restoration, the 406 now shows a light patina, with a smooth running and free revving engine, and a delightful all synchromesh 4 speed gearbox with overdrive. On the open road the 406 responds to throttle pick up without delay and accelerates freely. The gearbox snicks from gear to gear until you reach a cruising 70mph, at which point you can just flick the overdrive and cruise. Back on the windy lanes the car is reassuring and gives positive feedback to the driver.
This particular Bristol 406 has a fascinating history, having been previously registered to Tony Crook, director of Bristol Car Division from 1960 who took over full control of Bristol Cars in 1973. Service and restoration work carried out by marque specialist Spencer Lane-Jones is detailed in the comprehensive history file, which also includes an instruction manual, spares handbook and V5. A small number of sensible and sympathetic enhancements have been added such as a Kenlowe electric fan. Reuter seats are fitted with rare headrests, adding to a comfortable, luxurious and yet highly functional environment. Records show the MOT lapsed in 2016, but prior to that it passed annual tests back to 2006.
Finished in a stylish shade of burgundy metallic coachwork with a grey leather interior, and offered with a substantial history file. This elegant motor car represents a wonderful prospect for the connoisseur and we understand this car is one of only eight registered today on UK roads!
