1953 Bristol 403                                         R...

Estimate

£10,000 - £13,000

1953 Bristol 403                                        

Registration Number: LWP 886
Chassis Number: 403/1382
Recorded Mileage: N/A

- Part-finished restoration project with all items to complete

“Many chassis improvements – 100BHP and 100MPH. In worthy successor to the Bristol 401”

“The 403 has put the Bristol very indeed among the worlds best cars, and as an extremely fast machine of immense refinement and superb handling qualities it is probably unique. We should indeed be proud of this fine example of British craftmanship”. John Bolster Autocar 1953

Following World War II, British airplane manufacturer Bristol received the designs of BMW’s 328 racing engine, among the most successful of the pre-war era, as war reparations. Bristol took the engine, with its unusual dual pushrod-operated exhaust valves, and improved it for durability and reliability, then installed it in a new grand tourer with sensuously streamlined coachwork. The original model, the 400, would spawn four further series with steadily improved chassis engineering and refined styling. The 403, of 1953–55, featured an engine with larger valves and main bearings for 100 bhp and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 13.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 104 mph. Its chassis featured an anti-roll bar and improved Alfin drum brakes.

These luxurious, streamlined saloons were hand-built for the wealthy few and were thus always few in number. Just 287 503s were made in the three years of production.

Chassis #1382 was originally dispatched in August 1953, finished in a light metallic shade of Mist Blue. More recently the Bristol was subject to a restoration which has sadly stalled, however much of the hard work has already been completed. The aluminium coachwork has been restored, with any corrosion being attended to in the process, and is now finished in undercoat awaiting final preparation and painting. 

Prior to the strip down for restoration, #1382 was a complete driving example, indeed all parts are present ready to be re-fitted to the car. To date (in addition to the coachwork) the chrome work, all bumpers and grille were rechromed by Derby Plating Services, the interior has also been restored in red leather with new Wilton carpets. All glass is present, as are chromed hub caps, ready for reassembly.
 
A correct-type 100A engine and manual Bristol gearbox accompany the project for straightforward rebuild.

Offered from a long-term collector of Bristol and Bristol-engined classics, the 403 will no doubt require further mechanical and cosmetic attention. As such the project is sensibly estimated to allow for sufficient budget to complete the project to one's own taste and specification. LWP is offered complete with UK V5C