Bristol, the Aeroplane manufacturer had suffered greatly at the end of the first world war, unsuprisingly the demand for war-planes had dropped dramatically. So when the world tumbled into a second war, Bristol were determined to not suffer the same outcome in a new era of post war Britiain.

To achieve this goal, Bristol would sprout an automotive division shortly after the end of the war in 1945. By the 1970s, Bristol had firmly positioned itself as a high-quality low-volume sports car manufacturer. In what at the time was a distinctly competitive market.

This Bristol 411, is one of just 287 produced across a 7 year production run. Externally, the car is finished in two-tone black and grey. The bodywork is in excellent condition having being cared for exceptionally well throughout its life.

As a car of the 1970s it of course features a myriad of brightwork details, with chrome featuring along the bodysides, bumpers and grille. The only hint of what might be hiding underneath are the quad exhaust tips extending from beneath the rear bumper.

The interior is as luxurious as you’d expect of a Bristol, the seats are finished in a grey hide. They’re in excellent condition and are matched with the grey carpet set. Burr walnut cappings adorn the doors, and dashboard to add to the luxury feel. There is a three-spoke wood-rimmed steering wheel with a polished centre, and gauge cluster that features an updated but period looking digital Smiths speedometer.

Originally, the 411 was supplied new with a 6.3-litre or 383ci Chrysler sourced V8 and a three-speed automatic transmission. The original unit, was replaced in the mid 2000s, with a later 6.6-litre/400ci V8 from later Series 5 car.

The engine runs perfectly, with a deep V8 rumble and plenty of power and torque to ferry the little Bristol along at great pace. It does so smoothly, thanks to a upgraded four-speed transmission in place of the original. Both the engine and gearbox were fully stripped down and rebuilt prior to being fitted, with the engine also benefitting from uprated camshafts and alloy cylinder heads.

Just looking over the car, it’s immediately clear that it has been loved and cared for. It’s exmpliarary condition is testament to that, but so is the impressive collection of historical invoices and records. Included in which are invoices for the engine and gearbox, including details for the donor car the engine was sourced from. With so few Bristol’s being produced, and the brand’s fortunes fluctuating throughout the decades it can often be hard to attach some traceability to these special cars.

Owning a Bristol is an exclusive experience, the brand’s engineering prowess is clear with every car. Their developments of Aeroplanes like the Brabazon and Type 233 would result in a new era for the Aerospace industry.

Their cars, are as beloved as their aeroplanes. Combining all that is great about mid-century british cars, with the grunt of American muscle. The 411 then is a thug in dressed in a carefully tailored Saville Row suit.

As with all our vehicles, a full digital folder is available on request containing more images, walk-around videos, and scans of the service history.

Duke of London

Duke of London

Duke of London

Duke of London

Duke of London

Duke of London

Duke of London

Duke of London

Duke of London

Duke of London