1961 · The V8 era
Bristol 407
The V8 era begins.
With the 407 Bristol doubled its engine capacity, adopting a Chrysler V8 and automatic transmission in a hand-built aluminium sports saloon that was among the fastest of its day.
In 1961 Bristol replaced its 2.2-litre six with a 5.1-litre Chrysler V8 and the Torqueflite automatic gearbox, and the character of the marque for the next fifty years was set: quiet, effortless, hand-built cars that covered great distances without drama. The 407 kept the 406’s aluminium body but gained coil-spring front suspension and new steering.
The 408 of 1963 brought a new nose with four headlamps and won a coachwork award at Earls Court; the 409 of 1965 added power steering and better brakes; the 410 of 1967 refined the line further. Owners reported 407s exceeding three hundred thousand miles, which was the point.
Bristol Cars Approved
