Bristol 403 1954

Description:

The exquisitely styled Bristol 403 aerodyne features the Superleggera method of body construction devised by the Carrozzeria Touring company that overlaid alloy panels on a lightweight tubular-steel framework, while the low-drag shape was achieved after hours of experimentation in the Bristol Aeroplane Company’s wind tunnel.
The car is powered by the 6 cylinder engine derived from the BMW 328 and fuelled through triple solex carbs. Retaining much of the same styling as the 401, the 403 features many mechanical improvements. The 1971 cc six-cylinder engine was modified through the use of bigger valves and larger main bearings, which increased the power output to 100 horsepower as against 85 hp on the 401. To cope with this increased power, an anti-roll bar is fitted on the front suspension and improved drum brakes known as “Alfins” (Aluminum finned) are fitted.
This Bristol 403 was supplied new on the 1/3/1954 by Anthony Crook of Caterham Hill Surrey to a Mr E H Brown. Anthony Crook went on to own the Bristol Car Company. It was first registered 403BMD. After passing through a couple of owners known to the Bristol Owners Club, the car was exported to Ireland in 1993 where it is currently registered.  It is reported that the car had its bodywork restored in the early ‘90s when the colour was changed to its current colour known as Cambridge Grey (a mid green). The cylinder head was overhauled and converted to run on unleaded petrol by LM Engineering Dublin in 2008. The interior is largely original with the ox blood leather retaining a delightful patina. The gear shift has been converted to the remote type. Comes with an original handbook and copy of workshop manual; also present is the starting handle and jack.
With only around 282 Bristol 403s made, they do not come to market often so this is a wonderful opportunity to acquire one of the rarest and most exclusive of British hand built motor cars.

A previous owner who has the original registration 403BMD on retention has been in touch and would be willing to offer it for sale to the new owner. He also has an old logbook and more information on the history of the car.

The car is currently registered in the Irish Republic. No VAT or duties are due on importation. We will provide NOVA certification and assist with reregistration in UK.