Lot details

Year: 1952
Make: Bristol
Model: 401
Registration: Unregistered
Chassis No: tba
Odometer: 97,423

The vendor acquired this 1952 Bristol 401 in July 2020 as a lockdown project. With other commitments continuing to take precedence, he has reluctantly decided to offer the car for sale. During his ownership, he sourced numerous scarce components required to complete the restoration, including the throttle-pedal mechanism and linkages, door-top rails and pulls, wooden rear-window surround, dashboard controls, boot-lock mechanism, handbrake cable and ventilation system, all of which accompany the car.

First registered as MNF 423, this Manchester-registered Bristol spent its early years in the surrounding area. The accompanying buff logbook records several owners, the most recent listed being resident in Bingley in 1966. Its subsequent history is unknown until it was acquired from noted Bristol specialist Brian May.

Purchased by the previous owner without an engine, a correct-type unit was subsequently sourced and fitted. The chassis was cleaned and painted, while the bodywork received a bare-metal repaint in its attractive blue finish. The cabin has been substantially retrimmed with leather seats, new carpeting and new door cards, although a headlining is still required. The engine has reportedly been run briefly from a temporary fuel supply and displayed good oil pressure. The cylinder head has been skimmed, the valve seats recut and the carburettors rebuilt. The carburettors and ignition timing will require setting before the cooling system is filled and the engine fully recommissioned.

A new aluminium fuel tank and fuel line have been installed. The braking system has received a new master cylinder, wheel cylinders, pipework and linings, while the gearbox has been rebuilt with new bearings. Further improvements include new chassis lubrication pipework, a new wiring harness, re-chromed brightwork and stainless-steel exhaust downpipes and Y-piece, although a tailpipe remains outstanding.

The bonnet requires adjustment, while the boot-lock mechanism and handbrake cable remain to be fitted. A Bristol 401/403 workshop manual and wiring diagram are included. Prospective purchasers should note that MNF 423 does not currently appear on the DVLA database and an application for a V55 first registration will therefore be required. With much of the costly body, trim and mechanical work already completed, this elegant Bristol represents a rewarding restoration opportunity. Consigned by Mathew Priddy