BRISTOL 408

1965

• Purchased by Kirkfare Klassics September 2016

• From Classic & Sportscar Centre, Malton UK

• Delivered Australia March 2017

Bristol History

Second model produced by British manufacturer Bristol Cars. The first, Bristol 407, was the first British model to be made under the present administration, after the separation from Bristol Aeroplane Company.

Bristol 408 is a British luxury car made betweem1963 to 1966, a total of 83 units built.

Only 16 Mark II were built and records show only 5 known to be remaining.

The Mark II changes included dash-mounted rectangular buttons and a lock “Park” to the layout of automatic transmission. The transmission was cast ally and was 30 kilograms lighter than the Mark 1. The engine for the Mark II had a capacity increase from 313cu in (5.1 L) to 318 cu in (5.2 L).

Predecessor - Bristol 407

Successor - Bristol 409

The Chrysler engine for the Bristol 407 and 408 was built in Canada and fitted with a new camshaft and mechanical tappets (lifters) of Bristol design. The engine was mated to a TorqueFlite automatic gearbox as the only transmission option.

Major changes with Bristol cars from 407 forwards were coil spring front suspension and from 408 improved steering. This re-established the Bristol’s credentials in the field of performance cars with a maximum speed of over 125 mph (201 km/h) and acceleration from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 9.2 seconds. A “touring fuel consumption of 17.5 miles per imperial gallon (16.1 L/100km) was recorded.

The bodywork was built by bus body builder Park Royal Vehicles who also did trimming and finishing on some of those produced.

Condition – Restored

Specifications

Chassis/Vin – 408/7214

Engine – 5.2litre Chrysler V8 318cu

Gearbox – 3 speed automatic TorqueFlite

Colour – Maroon Burgundy/ Elephant Grey