1972 Bristol 411 Series 2

Registration No: SS 9848
Chassis No: 411-759262
MOT: Exempt

• Only second keeper since new
• Current ownership since March 1980
• Fitted with the rare metal sliding sunroof

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 Rolls-Royce or Aston Martin peers, the newcomer was hailed by renowned 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 Bristol's typically restrained two-door saloon bodywork belied its considerable performance potential. Powered by a proprietary Chrysler 6277cc (later 6566cc) OHV V8 engine allied to Torqueflite automatic transmission, the aerodynamically honed 'gentleman's express' could reputedly accelerate from 0-60mph in under eight seconds and onto 140mph. Tempered by independent coil-and-wishbone front and torsion-bar rear suspension, the Bristol was easily reined in by powerful all-round disc brakes. Total production across the five series of 411 is thought to have been 287 cars.

This Bristol 411 was originally delivered on the 5th of January 1972 by Bristol Motors Kensington to Wolff Olins Ltd, located in Dukes Road, London and comes equipped with a rare metal sliding sunroof, adding to its uniqueness and charm. On the 26th of March 1980, the car was acquired from Tony Crook by the current vendor. Initially, it served as a company vehicle before being passed into the private ownership of the current vendor. Interestingly, the current vendor is only the second registered keeper of the vehicle since new. While under current ownership, a significant amount of maintenance work has been performed on the car by the renowned Bristol specialist, Spencer Lane-Jones Ltd. During the 1990s, the car was treated to a new gearbox and more recently new shock absorbers have been fitted to ensure a comfortable and smooth ride. Between 2014 and 2018, the Bristol 411 underwent a repainting process, which has revitalized its exterior appearance. While the front seats may require retrimming, the rest of the interior is well-preserved and presents nicely. Due to the Covid pandemic and the advancing age of the current vendor, the car has not been used extensively since 2018. However, during consignment it drove exceptionally well, with a strong engine sound and acceleration, a smooth gearchange from the automatic transmission, and stable cornering through fast bends. Oh, and the brakes were up to the job, too! Offered with a current V5 document and sundry invoices, this Bristol represents a great opportunity to own a well-loved 411 with an interesting backstory and desirable features.

For more information, please contact:
Julian Pinkster
julian.pinkster@handh.co.uk
07889 223 904