Registration No: VSJ 780
Chassis No: 401/1094
MOT: Exempt

• 1 of just 618 made, matching chassis and engine numbers
• Sold by H&H in 2016, immediately after an extensive repaint and recommission
• Presented in fine, useable order with a small fortune in bills present

"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, it boasted a commendably lithe kerb weight (c.2,700lbs). Equipped with transverse-leaf independent front suspension and hydraulic drum brakes, the newcomer proved a notably fine handler taking Touring Class wins on both the Cannes and Tulip Rallies during 1951. Powered by a 1971cc OHV straight-six engine allied to four-speed manual transmission, the elegant sports saloon promised nigh-on 100mph performance. 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.

Supplied new by Anthony Crook Ltd of Hersham, Surrey, this particular example - chassis 401/1094 was dry stored for some sixteen years prior to being treated to a bare metal repaint and sundry re-chroming plus some sympathetic mechanical recommissioning. As well as a new cylinder head gasket, the original `matching numbers' engine benefited from new core plugs, flushed-out waterways and overhauled carburettors. The radiator core was attended to as were the water pump, starter solenoid, wiring and brakes. Post this work, the car was sold in 2016 via a H&H auction. Acquired by our vendor in 2021 and maintained "money no object" by no other than Bristol Specialists Spencer Lane Jones Ltd, the car is described as being a 'very good' example of the marque by the vendor, with the paint work still appearing 'very good' all over and with the mechanics being rated as 'excellent'. Finished in Cambridge Grey Metallic with Dark Blue leather upholstery, this 401 should surely be an example for any collector to be proud of.

For more information, please contact:
Lucas Gomersall
lucas.gomersall@handh.co.uk
07484 082430