Description
Produced in November 1949 at Bristol and exported directly to Australia where it spent most of its life in the dry warm climate of Sydney. Chassis 400/ 1/ 632: Engine 85A No 1458. This rust-free sought-after model was repatriated by me in April 2018 with full record of previous owners and details of work carried out since 1950. A new clutch was fitted in 2009, re-con gear box in 2014 at 65k miles, full engine re- build in sept 2016 included cam followers reground to 405 profile giving better torque. The Car retains many original features including rear opening window, body strips, tool- box as well as the stylish leather and wood interior. Seat belts and indicators are non- original additions as well as a brake servo and electric fan.
The Bristol 400 has a six-cylinder pushrod engine of 1, 971 cc (bore 66 mm, stroke 96 mm). This engine, considered advanced for its time due to its hemispherical combustion chambers and very short inlet and exhaust ports, developed 80 horsepower at 4, 500 revs per minute and could carry the 400 to a top speed of around 148 km/ h (92 mph) with acceleration to match. The 400 featured independent front suspension with a transverse leaf spring and a live axle, located by an A-bracket over the differential case and longitudinal torsion bars with transverse arms and brackets at the rear. The 400 was the only Bristol to be fitted with a steel and aluminium skin, and had all flat glass, but for the curved rear window, this feature was very welcome on warmer climate export models.
Recent work in UK includes rebuild of 3 x SU carburettors, screw-on oil filter, re –upholstered front seats and door cards with new window rubber seals/ felts, new brake wheel cylinders, Drums skimmed, re chromed front bumper, both doors re painted. Body paint work has some blemishes but no damage. Drives very well, maintains good oil pressure, has V5C and heritage certificate. Mille Miglia Eligible. Non- original extras include electric fan, brake servo, manual choke, 12v phone charging point and FM Radio/ cassette, front seat belts: MOT and new tyres. Genuine reason for sale by BODA member. I feel privileged when driving this car, it is so well designed and hand built by aircraft engineers. it is a joy to drive and always attracts much attention and smiles on faces. I imported the car from Australia 7 years ago and have enjoyed every moment of ownership. Sadly, too many projects and age require me to pass this beautiful car to another responsible owner.
