• One of only 265 made
• Effortless high-speed cruising for four
• Current ownership since 1998
• Original Bristol Advice of Despatch on file

With the 1953 introduction of the short-wheelbase 404 coupé, the Bristol line at last lost its resemblance to the pre-war BMW, swapping that distinctive two-piece radiator grille for an equally unmistakable, aeronautically inspired air intake. The body was still an ash-framed, aluminium-alloy panelled structure, but the bonnet was now forward-hinging and for the first time the spare wheel was accommodated in the near-side front wing. Bristol continued to use the BMW-based, 2.0-litre, six-cylinder engine with its ingeniously arranged, pushrod-operated inclined valves, and this was available in either 105bhp or 125bhp form in the 404. The gearbox remained a manual four-speed unit with first-gear freewheel.

In October 1954 at the Paris Salon Bristol introduced the 405, effectively a stretched four-door version of the 404, which otherwise it closely resembled. Unkindly dubbed 'the flying greenhouse' on account of its generous glass area, the newcomer featured overdrive transmission, electrically operated fuel reserve, radial tyres and a screen washer as standard equipment. Writing in Motor Sport magazine, Bill Boddy described the 405 as "a tireless car in which to drive over long distances, the passengers being able to relax in comfort and luxury, while the driver enjoys himself with the excellent controls and the sense of exceptional security". The Bristol's aircraft-industry standard of construction did not come cheap however (it cost a little under £3,200 including purchase tax, making it almost £500 more expensive than an Aston Martin DB2/4) and only 265 examples found customers between 1954 and 1958.

This rare British Gran Turismo was delivered new in Porcelain Green over Chinese Ivory with silver wheels in November 1955. The first recorded owner was a Mr Ian Rendall of Pinner, Middlesex. The car was acquired for the collection at a UK auction in 1998 (purchase receipt on file). The collection staff have carried out light recommissioning ahead of sale, including a replacement fuel pump, filter and fuel lines, ignition coil and spark plug leads. The carburettors have been stripped and rebuilt, and a new battery has been fitted. We would advise close inspection of the car before returning to the road for regular use.

Accompanying paperwork includes the original Bristol Advice of Despatch dated 1955; some old MoTs; customs documents; photographs and a list of maintenance carried out; and an old V5 (WAE 200).

Please note that this vehicle is from outside the UK. Our customs agents, CARS UK, will manage all post sale customs administration. A fee of £350+VAT will be charged on the buyer's invoice to administer both import or export customs movements. If the buyer also chooses to ship with CARS UK, this will be quoted separately. If this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance formalities. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department.