RHD Bristol 400 Saloon, 2 litre, from 1948, Mille Miglia Competitor
The Bristol 400 combines as a base the BMW 327 chassis, the state of the art BMW 328 six-cylinder 1.971 cc engine fed by 3 Solex carburettors producing 80 HP and a for its time an ultra-aerodynamic body which was constructed based on Touring's famous "Superleggera" method.
The most successful Saloon Bristol in sporting competition.
This superb RHD Bristol 400 1st series, 2 litre, from 1948 has been a competitor in the well-known Mille Miglia edition 2023 (finished with the amazing result of being 79th overall) and also in numerous other classic car events in the UK.
Chassis: 400/1/506
Car number: 400/A/244
Engine: 400-85A-1329
Since 1971 engine: 85c/1973, period engine, all documented
Almost complete ownership is known of this amazing car. The car has been always kept in long-term ownerships. Since 2013 in current German ownership but before this, this beauty remained all her life in the UK. Last owner kept her between 1974 and 2013. Many files, correspondence between previous owners, history and lovely old pictures are present of earlier times. Even old green log book/registration book, V5 and past English number plate come with the car.
A very known car in the Bristol Club!
FIVA Pass available, Mille Miglia Registro with valid registration until 2028
25/08/1948 First registration UK with number plate: LHU589
05/09/1948 Date of dispatch supplied by Bristol Aeroplane Company, Bristol agent Anthony Crook
Motors, Hersham, UK
This example is the 144th of only 421 examples ever made.
Event history:
- Participant in 1952 in a competitive event RAC Rallye, driven by highly rated driver Mr. Leonard Potter
- 1975 Concours d’Elegance Palace Blenheim, UK
- 2023 Mille Miglia
The car has been purchased in 2013 by current owner and benefits from an extensive and complete restoration, engine and gearbox rebuilt through specialised restoration and engine companies in Germany. More than 7 years’ time, love and passion invested to bring this car back into very good state and condition as it is now. Engine rebuilt, dismantled, cleaned, pistons, bearings and valves renewed, carburettors dismantled and cleaned and all seals renewed. Everything has been carried out to highest and original standards and specifications.
This Bristol is very appealing by her lovely beige/cream leather interior, tan carpets, wooden dashboard and finished in matching colour black exterior.
The car is in excellent technical and optical condition with a charming patina and little signs of usage, very comfortable to race and tour and also eligible for the next upcoming Mille Miglia edition 2024!
A fantastic car which drives and handles exceptionally well for a car of its era.
We are wishing the new buyer the same driving pleasures which current owner had and also competitive success in upcoming classic car events.
Further details, information and photos certainly on request!
