Having made a major contribution to both world wars, the Bristol Aeroplane Company ended 1945 with a surplus of skilled labour and, to redeploy this resource, created a luxury car division. Under the war reparation scheme, rights were acquired regarding pre-war BMWs and their powerplants. The company was, therefore, able to produce its first vehicle - the 400 Saloon - in the autumn of 1946. The chassis was based on that of the BMW 326, its graceful body inspired by the 327, and the engine a mildly modified version of the 328 unit. Introduced in 1954, the 405 Saloon was Bristol's first and, so far, only four-door offering. Effectively a long-wheelbase version of the outgoing 404, it was also the first of the marque to feature an opening boot lid. The newcomer was powered by the 100B2 version of the company's 1971cc OHV straight-six engine. It developed some 110bhp and drove through a four-speed manual gearbox plus Laycock de Normanville overdrive. The suspension was independent at the front by a transverse leaf spring and by solid axle and torsion bars at the rear. Braking was by drums all around (front discs were optional) and steering by rack and pinion. Total 405 production comprised 265 Saloons and 43 Drophead Coupes. The model was replaced by the 406 in 1958.

This particular example chassis 405/ 4073 was registered on 18th January 1955 on the very suitable registration mark ‘VHU400’.
re-chromed front and rear bumpers
new exhaust downpipes
original leather seats and door cards
headlining in good condition
wood and framework in excellent condition, doors open and shut very well
aluminium bodywork in good condition throughout, with no dents ready for preparation and paint.
New tyres some while ago
period radio
all glass is intact and undamaged
all brightwork fitted

A few small boxes of parts are included with the sale of small ancillary parts, and we are led to believe everything less the engine and gearbox is included with the sale.

This motorcar has a current UK V5, and shows only 2 former keepers.

£12500.00

Viewing by prior appointment only.

For further details please contact our sales team.

Tel: +44 (0)1932 828545
Mob: +44 (0)7557878123
email please contact charlie@brooklandscarsltd.com