Lot details
Registration No: RBY622K
Chassis No: 4117626164
Mot Expiry: Nov 2006

Responsible since its 1946 inception for a succession of highly capable and individualistic grand tourers, Bristol has always remained aloof from the constraints of contemporary automotive fashion. Introduced in 1969, the 411 proved to be no exception. Far more exclusive than its rivals from Bentley and Aston Martin, it was hailed by motoring journalist John Bolster as "the fastest true four-seater touring car" in the world. Something akin to a (Detroit) iron fist in a velvet glove, the 411's typically restrained two-door saloon bodywork belied its huge performance potential. With a quoted 325bhp and 420lbft of torque on tap, the Chrysler supplied 6,277cc V8 engine and associated Torqueflite automatic transmission were reputedly capable of propelling the aerodynamically honed 'gentleman's express' to over 140mph and from 0-60mph in under eight seconds. Tempered by independent coil-and-wishbone front and torsion-bar rear suspension, the 411 was easily reined in by powerful all-round disc brakes.
Finished in silver with oxblood leather upholstery, this particular Series III example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (chassis, bodywork, paintwork, three-speed automatic gearbox), "very good" (engine) or "wonderful" (interior trim) condition. Reportedly supplied new to a Hatton Gardens diamond merchant, it was resident in Guernsey from 1979 to 1985, while subsequent notable owners have included aerobatics display pilot Richard Goode and specialist Bentley dealer Stanley Mann. Said to possess service history "almost from new", the past few years have seen it treated to a fresh battery, new brakes pads and stainless steel exhaust. With its handling apparently sharpened by 'pepper pot alloys', the Bristol is stated to "drive very tightly and be rattle-free". Believed to have covered 142,000 miles from new (though, a new speedometer unit was fitted at 92,000 miles so the current odometer reading is somewhat less), the car also benefits from "a very nice walnut dashboard / door fillets", power assisted steering and electric windows. A luxurious, hand-built GT with an impressive pedigree, this handsome Bristol is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until November 2006.

PLEASE NOTE: This car has had new brake pads and not brake pipes as stated in the catalogue.