1952 Bristol 401
1 of just 618 examples made

Registration No: Unregistered (formerly 'LUF 531')
Chassis No: 401/1026
MOT: Exempt

• 1 of just 618 examples of the 401 manufactured
• Entered from the deceased estate of the well-renowned Bristol aficionado, Brian May, and in his ownership for some 17 years
• Ordered as a demonstration car for motor traders George Newman and Co. Ltd. of Brighton
• A worthy restoration project, already subject to much bodywork restoration

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 a 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.

Chassis number ‘401/1026’ was manufactured for use as a demonstration car for motor traders, George Newman and Co. Ltd. of Brighton, being dispatched to them on the 14^th of January and understood to have been registered as ‘LUF 531’. Originally finished in Bottle Green and fitted with the 1971cc straight-six overhead-valve engine allied to the four-speed manual transmission, unfortunately, little more is known of the Bristol's early history. Entered from the deceased estate of the well-renowned Bristol aficionado, Brian May, and in his ownership from 2005, the 401 was stripped back to bare metal during Mr. Mays's ownership and subject to much chassis restoration work before having primer applied. Now offered from his deceased estate as a restoration project, the 401 was unfortunately without an engine or gearbox when purchased by Brian, and is still offered without today. Offered with a copy of the original advice note for the car and a copy of the Car Service Record, this is a worthy restoration project with much bodywork already completed. Interested parties should note that there is no V5 document accompanying.

For more information, please contact:
Paul Cheetham
paul.cheetham@handh.co.uk
07538 667452