Highlights
- Wonderful rebuilt Chrysler V8 engine
- Originally supplied by Anthony Crook
- Pristine series 4 alloys
- Very usable classic that would benefit from some cosmetic work
- Almost impossible to find in this condition/price bracket
The Appeal
Bristol is a name well known within the history of British engineering. Starting out as an aeroplane manufacturer, in 1945 they also moved into the automotive sector. Their wealth of engineering knowledge really proved beneficial when developing Bristol vehicles.
By 1970 Bristol were well known for creating fine vehicles, equal parts luxury and performance, something that was certainly encapsulated in the 411 Series 1. Not only was the styling sleek and classy but the mechanics and performance were very impressive for the era.
Power was supplied by Chryslers 383CI 'big-block' B series V8, which gave for very strong power and top speed figures for the time. The 411's suspension and brakes weren't skimped on either which led to rave reviews for its handling. The 411 Series 1 is a wonderful example of Britain’s engineering prowess from a bygone era.
By 1970 Bristol were well known for creating fine vehicles, equal parts luxury and performance, something that was certainly encapsulated in the 411 Series 1. Not only was the styling sleek and classy but the mechanics and performance were very impressive for the era.
Power was supplied by Chryslers 383CI 'big-block' B series V8, which gave for very strong power and top speed figures for the time. The 411's suspension and brakes weren't skimped on either which led to rave reviews for its handling. The 411 Series 1 is a wonderful example of Britain’s engineering prowess from a bygone era.
The History and Paperwork
- MOT exempt
- Originally registered 04/11/1970
- 12,600 miles on rebuilt engine, chassis has done more but remains in good condition
- Car was originally registered as brown but received a full respray in grey
- Previous owner was Martin Barnes, a well-known mechanic specialising in Bristol cars
- Selling as not getting the use it deserves
- No service history present, Bristol owners club magazine seen in the photos is not included in the sale
- Some desirable mechanical upgrades including fuel injection
- Original wooden dash
- Very good condition overall
- Kept in storage by current owner when not in use
The Interior
- Part retrimmed black interior in good condition
- All new carpets in the cabin and boot
- Seatbelts present for front and rear seats
The interior of this Bristol 411 Series 1 is spacious and certainly inviting. The Black leather seats remain in good condition with some signs of wear you'd expect for the age but free from any rips or tears. The interior has also received new carpets all around, including the boot which are all in very good condition.
The wooden dash is in good condition overall with some attention possibly needed in areas. The current owner is unsure if all of the creature comforts within the cabin are functioning but all switches and trim are present. The stereo has been upgraded to an Alpine head unit with a Pioneer 6-disc cd changer located under the rear seats as well as upgraded speakers.
Furthermore, there is the convenient addition of a USB power outlet to the right of the steering wheel, again the current owner is unsure whether this is working but it is installed and present. The current owner believes the headlining was retrimmed and this remains in excellent condition too.
The wooden dash is in good condition overall with some attention possibly needed in areas. The current owner is unsure if all of the creature comforts within the cabin are functioning but all switches and trim are present. The stereo has been upgraded to an Alpine head unit with a Pioneer 6-disc cd changer located under the rear seats as well as upgraded speakers.
Furthermore, there is the convenient addition of a USB power outlet to the right of the steering wheel, again the current owner is unsure whether this is working but it is installed and present. The current owner believes the headlining was retrimmed and this remains in excellent condition too.
The Exterior
- Grey paintwork in good condition overall, a few areas needing attention
- 3 matching Toyo Proxes tyres and 1 Pirelli P4000, all with good tread
- Pristine two-tone series 4 alloys fitted
- Glass and brightwork in good condition overall
Resprayed in grey, the exterior of this Bristol matches the class of the interior; it will catch your eye without shouting about it. Overall, the paint and bodywork are in good condition with small areas possibly needing some attention, there are the usual chips and scuffs you would expect with a car of this age as well as some bubbling present on the roof and wheel arches.
The majority of the brightwork is in very good condition with some corrosion present in small areas such as the bumpers. The glass remains in good condition all around but some of the rubber sills are starting to crack and perish, noticeable on the windscreen surround. The dual exit exhaust tips are both in very good condition and really help to visually set this Bristol off.
Finally, the previous owner fitted series 4 two-tone alloys all around which are all in pristine condition and help to give the car a lovely presence.
The majority of the brightwork is in very good condition with some corrosion present in small areas such as the bumpers. The glass remains in good condition all around but some of the rubber sills are starting to crack and perish, noticeable on the windscreen surround. The dual exit exhaust tips are both in very good condition and really help to visually set this Bristol off.
Finally, the previous owner fitted series 4 two-tone alloys all around which are all in pristine condition and help to give the car a lovely presence.
The Mechanics
- Rebuilt Chrysler 383CI V8 with fuel injection and alloy heads amongst other upgrades
- 3-speed automatic gearbox
- Disc brakes on all 4 corners
- Clean and tidy engine bay
The previous owner of this Bristol 411 Series 1, was a well-known figure within the Bristol owners club, a mechanic who specialised in Bristol's and certainly knew his way around them. This knowledge and experience can be seen throughout the vehicle but especially within the engine bay, an already wonderful engine with some very thoughtful upgrades. Firstly, a fuel injection system with a Holley EF1 power module, as well as alloy heads and a recently replaced alternator.
The current owner informs that the power steering belt needs adjusting as it doesn't run perfectly in line with the pulley, this gives for a squeaking noise when using full lock and it has occasionally slipped off. We are told the underside has likely seen some welding to keep it in good condition, the iconic storage bays location in both front wings which were known for rusting are both in good condition, the spare wheel and tool kit are not present but the mounting point and space for the spare wheel remains.
The current owner states the car accelerates and stops as it should, well and in a straight line with a lovely rumble from the V8 engine.
The current owner informs that the power steering belt needs adjusting as it doesn't run perfectly in line with the pulley, this gives for a squeaking noise when using full lock and it has occasionally slipped off. We are told the underside has likely seen some welding to keep it in good condition, the iconic storage bays location in both front wings which were known for rusting are both in good condition, the spare wheel and tool kit are not present but the mounting point and space for the spare wheel remains.
The current owner states the car accelerates and stops as it should, well and in a straight line with a lovely rumble from the V8 engine.
Summary
Built in low numbers, the Bristol 411 Series 1 is becoming rarer with every year, and to find one in this price bracket is even harder. An icon from the British automotive industry, even today the performance and luxury offered by this example is enough to draw you in. Previously owned by a well-known Bristol mechanic, this series 1 has seen some thoughtful upgrades and overall remains in good condition.
With under 13,000 miles on the rebuilt engine, there are still many miles left to be enjoyed in this glorious vehicle. If you are in the market for a classic British sports saloon then this Bristol is certainly a fine example that could fulfil your desire!
With under 13,000 miles on the rebuilt engine, there are still many miles left to be enjoyed in this glorious vehicle. If you are in the market for a classic British sports saloon then this Bristol is certainly a fine example that could fulfil your desire!
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
