The Second World War ending could have spelt trouble for the Bristol Aeroplane Company. Suddenly, aircraft were in their lowest demand for years...but the general public had caught automotive fever. As a result, the company swiftly moved into car manufacturing, and thanks to their aerospace tech, managed to do so with remarkable grace. They were, after all, masters of aerodynamics and aluminium.

This was their first model - the Bristol 400. Using BMW underpinnings, it was a highly advanced piece of kit for the era. The beautifully streamlined body sat atop an independent front suspension, a four-speed transmission with synchromesh on the upper three gears, and a highly modified BMW six-cylinder pushrod engine, which was capable of hauling it along at 92mph!

Only 487 examples were built before its successor hustled in on the territory in 1949. As a result, the original Bristol 400 had a remarkably short life of two years - but those two years have become the stuff of legend.

This specific example, Chassis Number 400/ 457, has been in singular ownership since 1971. The car was discovered in a garage on the south coast, where it remained on axle stands for almost four decades. It offers a remarkable opportunity for restoration - it's been successfully started and remains largely complete, with the exception of the rear wings.

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 of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s 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. 

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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand.