Description
This car is Lot 483 to be auctioned by Bonhams|Cars at The Beaulieu Sale on 6 September, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Public Viewing:
Available Friday 5 September from 10:00 until 17:00 and Saturday 6 September from 08:30 until 17:00 at The National Motor Museum, Beaulieu.
Lot 483
1957 Bristol 405 Sports Saloon
Registration no. 327 AAE
Chassis no. 405/ 4211
One of just 265 examples of the 405 Saloon manufactured
Delivered new to Stoke-on-Trent
An exciting restoration project that is missing the original '100B2' engine and gearbox
Having made a major contribution to both world wars, the Bristol Aeroplane Company ended 1945 with a surplus of skilled labour and, to redeploy this resource, created a luxury car division. Under the war reparation scheme, rights were acquired regarding pre-war BMWs and their powerplants. The company was, therefore, able to produce its first vehicle - the 400 Saloon - in the autumn of 1946. The chassis was based on that of the BMW 326, its graceful body inspired by the 327, and the engine a mildly modified version of the 328 unit. Introduced in 1954, the 405 Saloon was Bristol's first and, so far, only four-door offering. Effectively a long-wheelbase version of the outgoing 404, it was also the first of the marque to feature an opening boot lid. The newcomer was powered by the 100B2 version of the company's 1971cc OHV straight-six engine. It developed some 110bhp and drove through a four-speed manual gearbox plus Laycock de Normanville overdrive. The suspension was independent at the front by a transverse leaf spring and by solid axle and torsion bars at the rear. Braking was by drums all round (front discs were optional) and steering by rack and pinion. Total 405 production comprised 265 Saloons and 43 Drophead Coupes. The model was replaced by the 406 in 1958.
A rare and very sought after example of British motoring history, this Bristol was first delivered new in June 1957 with an Ash Grey over Egyptian Brown colour scheme to a John Alcock, Esq of Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent. Clearly a car ripe for restoration, this 405 is offered for sale without reserve, the 405 is offered as an interesting and rewarding project and leaves somewhat of a blank canvas for any prospective purchaser. The very-expensive-when-new grand tourer is supplied with a UK V5 and a copy of its factory delivery note and is sold strictly as seen.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams|Cars website for all pertinent auction information.
