First Bristol to have an American V8, giving around 250 horsepower. Only 300 of these were built in 1962-1963.
Substantial recent mechanical work by Bristol specialist Spencer Lane Jones, including reconditioned gearbox, back axle and radiator
Electric power steering fitted
Voluntary MOT valid to November 2026
Known by the current owner for over twenty years, previously owned by a friend
Dry stored throughout known ownership history
The Appeal
Hand-built in limited numbers and combining bespoke British coachwork with robust American V8 power, the Bristol 407 hails from the marque's golden era of luxury GT construction. The eccentric motoring journalist LJK Setright was a a lifelong devotee of the Bristol marque. With their exclusivity, refinement and formidable performance, these cars have long been cherished by discerning enthusiasts who appreciate artisanal craftsmanship and engineering integrity over mass-market appeal.
This 1962 example presents an excellent opportunity to acquire a mechanically sorted 407 that's reportedly ready to be enjoyed. Known to the current owner for over twenty years and dry-stored throughout its life, the car has recently benefited from substantial investment in the areas that matter most. Spencer Lane Jones, a respected Bristol specialist, has reconditioned the gearbox, back axle and radiator, and carried out comprehensive work to the suspension, brakes and steering. Electric power steering has been installed, a dynamo-style alternator has been fitted, and the carburettor has been refurbished. These are precisely the expensive, awkward jobs that prospective buyers often face, and they've already been completed here.
The vendor describes this as an honest example rather than a freshly restored show car, which means it presents an opportunity to acquire a usable Bristol at a sensible price point. The bodywork and chrome are reported to be in fine fettle with no corrosion, the underside is in very good order, and the interior is presentable with just a couple of minor jobs outstanding. The car reportedly starts and runs well, drives as it should, and pulls strongly. With a comprehensive recent history file and MOT valid to November 2026, this 407 is ready for touring, regular use, or further cosmetic improvement at the next owner's pace.e06d40a0-93e3-49a5-9c2a-e8e553cf4b75.jpeg332.17 KB
History and Paperwork
UK market RHD car first registered in 1962
Known by current owner for over twenty years, previously owned by a friend
Purchased by the owner's father-in-law, then bought by current owner in 2022
Dry stored throughout ownership history
Comprehensive recent history file available, with specialist invoices included in the gallery below
MOT valid to November 2026 with just two minor advisories
Gearbox, back axle and radiator reconditioned by specialists via Spencer Lane Jones
Suspension, brakes and steering work carried out by Bristol specialist Spencer Lane Jones
Electric power steering fitted
Dynamo-style alternator fitted
Carburettor refurbished
Reportedly starts and runs well, drives as it should and pulls well
Runs at the correct temperature according to the vendor
Very small, negligible oil leak from engine reported (typical for Bristol, not worsening according to the vendor)
125749ea-97c2-46ab-83c4-63ca6f62d946.jpeg171.41 KB BEFORE YOU BUY This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: ✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. ✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. ✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. ✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. ✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. ✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle. ✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..
