Lot details
Registration No: 521 UTO
Chassis No: 4265285
Mot Expiry: April 2011

Having made a major contribution to both world wars, the Bristol Aeroplane Company ended 1945 with a surplus of skilled labour. In order to redeploy this resource it decided to create a luxury car division. Under the war reparation scheme, rights were acquired regarding pre-war BMW models and their powerplants. The company was therefore able to produce its first vehicle - the 400 Saloon - in the autumn of 1946. The chassis was based on that of the BMW 326, the graceful body inspired by that of the 327, while the engine was a mildly modified version of the 328 unit.

The 406 two-door Saloon was introduced in late 1957. It lacked the bonnet scoop of the 404 and 405 and featured a wider grille. It was powered by the same BMW-derived engine as the earlier models, though the capacity had now been stretched from 2.0 to 2.2 litres. The 406 was also notable for its all-round Dunlop-built disc brakes and the replacement of its predecessors' A-bracket rear suspension with a Watt's linkage. Some 174 examples of the model are thought to have been manufactured.

The RHD 406 offered was produced in 1959 and is finished in red with grey leather upholstery. It has been owned by the same family since 1983 and has reportedly covered just 100 miles in the last 20 years; during which time it has been the subject of substantial refurbishment. This is understood to have included: new door pillars, sills, out riggers front and rear inner wings and boot floor; the overhauling of the suspension and the fitting of new dampers all round; the recommissioning of the engine, gearbox and brakes, employing new or restored parts as required. The car has also been resprayed and fitted with a new headlining and Wilton carpets. It is MOT'd into April 2011.