Lot 010: 1952 BRISTOL 401

"This, indeed, is the car for the connoisseur. It can only be modesty on the part of the Bristol publicity boys which has prevented them from quoting as the 401's slogan 'The Best Car in Britain'" (Motor Sport magazine, January 1953). Introduced in Autumn 1949, the 401 was characterised by its super-smooth, aerodynamic bodywork. Honed in the Bristol Aeroplane Company's wind tunnel and built using Milanese coachbuilder Touring's 'Superleggera' technique (aluminium panelling cinched over a chassis mounted tubular steel superstructure), it boasted a commendably lithe kerb weight of approximately 2,700lbs. Equipped with transverse-leaf independent front suspension and hydraulic drum brakes, the new Bristol proved a notably fine handler taking Touring Class wins in both the Cannes Rally of the Sun and Tulip Rally for 1951. Powered by a BMW-inspired 1971cc OHV straight-six engine allied to four-speed manual transmission, the elegant sports saloon promised nigh-on 100mph performance and spirited acceleration. Only in production for four years (by which time a mere 618 are thought to have been made), the model's exclusive £3,212 13s 4d price tag was a reflection of the aircraft quality materials used in its construction. Finished in silver with heather leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "A1" (chassis, paintwork) or "A1+" (engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork, wheels / tyres) condition. Said to have been undergone some £47,000 worth of restoration / maintenance work by TT Workshops between 1979 and 1991, 'JSG 615' sports a highly polished wooden dashboard. Riding on steel wheels, this handsome Bristol is offered for sale with assorted TT Workshops invoices / bills and MOT certificate valid until June 2007.