Bristol 403

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Launched in 1953, the 403 was a logical development of the original 400 model, a superb pre-war design that Bristol had effectively inherited from BMW.

It shared the same exquisitely crafted aerodynamic body as the preceding 401, Carrozzeria Touring of Milan providing the Superleggera method of construction that overlaid alloy panels on a lightweight tubular-steel framework. Looking years ahead of its time, the 401 was only really let down by a lack of power, and it was this aspect of the car that the 403 was designed to redress.

The BMW-based 2-litre six-cylinder engine, with its ingeniously arranged, pushrod-operated, inclined valves, was retained but a new alloy cylinder head, the use of bigger valves and larger main bearings raised the power from 85bhp to 100bhp giving the 403 a top speed in excess of 100mph. To cope with the extra performance the running gear was also revised with a front anti-roll bar and finned light-alloy brake drums. The gearbox remained a manual four-speed unit with first-gear freewheel.

“This is truly a car to give joy and well-merited pride of possession to the connoisseur, for besides its many sensible and well-made features and its vivid performance, it handles well, possesses a delightful gearchange and is an exceedingly comfortable and restful car to drive,” said MotorSport, who went on to declare it: “The Best Car in Britain”.

As the original buff log book confirms, this particular 403 was first registered to Bristol dealers Bradburn Wedge Ltd of Wolverhampton in November 1954 and was originally Cambridge Grey. Used as a demonstrator for 16 months, it then had two further owners (WG Allen & Co of Tipton from March 1956 and Edward Earldley of Smethwick from July 1958) before being acquired by the current vendor in c.1962. A professional car mechanic and lifelong Bristol enthusiast, he restored the car about 15 years ago (including repainting it in what is thought to be Heather Grey metallic), used it for a short while and then put it into storage on a friend’s farm where it has remained to this day.

We are informed that the car was in good running order when laid up but was last MOTd and on the road in 2007. It will now require thorough recommissioning before being put back into use, although the engine still turns and the car rolls freely. We are further advised that the engine currently fitted is not the original (100B/2/3260) but is a replacement A-Series engine (400/85A/1257).

With just 281 built in total, this rare and handsome Bristol 403, with just four owners from new, is on the market for the first time in over 50 years. With top examples now fetching in excess of £60,000 at auction, it should amply reward the remedial works now required at the sensible guide price suggested.

PS: This car was washed prior to delivery to Brightwells and has come up rather nicely, as you can see in the last three photos above.