1966 Bristol 409 Sports Saloon

• One of only 74 made
• Automatic transmission
• Present ownership since 2022
• Maintained with no expense spared

Bristol's line of V8-engined sports saloons began in 1961 with the 407, though in appearance the newcomer closely resembled the preceding six-cylinder 406. The adoption of Chrysler V8 power came not before time, as Bristol's 2.0-litre BMW-based engine had effectively been outgrown by the car's increasingly weighty coachwork. With 250bhp (more than double the 406's output) available from its 5.1 litres and a top speed of 125mph, the 407 re-established the Bristol as a true high-performance car but one which nevertheless retained all the refinement and luxury associated with the marque.

The Bristol V8 chassis was up-dated and the styling revised periodically throughout the 1960s, the process culminating in the 411 of 1969. In the meantime, Bristol had managed to sell only 88 of the 407s, 83 of the 408, and 74 of the 409. The 408 had been comprehensively restyled compared with the 407, with a wide grille incorporating quadruple headlamps replacing the aircraft-type air intake of the earlier car, as well as a lower stance. Almost identical to the 408 externally, the 409 (introduced in 1965) boasted a slightly larger (5,211cc) engine, Girling brakes instead of Dunlop, and, on later cars, power assisted steering.

"Built for those who can afford - and appreciate - the best," the Bristol was one of the select few hand-assembled British luxury cars, whose roots in the aircraft industry mean that its manufacturing standards were exceptionally high. Such attention to detail gives the Bristol a very special cachet indeed.

This rare British classic retains numerous original features in excellent working order, including the push-button automatic gear selector; vacuum operated windscreen washers; electrically adjustable suspension; and heated rear screen. It also benefits from performance and safety upgrades to include electronic ignition; spin-on oil filter; high-torque starter motor; and radial tyres. Significant restoration works include a gearbox rebuild with new torque converter and clutches (1992); brake servo replacement (1998); full bare metal respray (2005); engine rebuild (2008); and bodywork repairs by Brabazon to include wheelarches and A-posts (2011).

Acquired by our vendor in 2022, the Bristol has since benefited from nearly £20,000 spent with recognised marque specialist Spencer Lane-Jones to maintain it in top mechanical condition. Works carried out and/or parts replaced include new dampers all round; brake discs, calipers and handbrake system; carburettor and linkage; fuel pump; hub seals; halogen headlamp upgrade; and four inertia reel seatbelts. An original instruction manual is included in the sale.