1951 Bristol 401 Beutler

1951 Bristol 401 Beutler.

This example chassis No. 401/892 was 1 of approximately 2 Beutler 401’s commissioned.

The car has been owned by the late Brian May world renowned Bristol enthusiast and is still owned by the family to this day. He purchased the car in the Autumn of 1968 right at the beginning of his love for everything Bristol. He found the car advertised in ’Exchange and Mart’ magazine which he often purchased to see if anything could "tickle his fancy". At the time it was advertised as ’special bodied Bristol’ the Lady he purchased the car from imported the car for ’Ceylon’ which is now Sri Lanka. Back then it was Presented at the time in White with a Black roof but has since been painted in two tone Renault Green.

Much like other early Bristol’s in the 60s,70s and 80s the engines were regularly changed to the later more up to date engines from the AC’s and 406’s, Mr May finally decided on a 110 2.2 Bristol engine from a Bristol 406 to power his Beutler and this remains in the car today.

Beutler of Thun were not known for innovation but built up a solid reputation for quality craftsmanship which shows when up close. They had previous relationships building the bodies for BMW’s pre war so it made sense for Bristol to add them to the list.

The current state of 401/892 is mostly restored with finishing touches needed.

SLJ Hackett, Official Heritage Partner of Bristol Cars Approved by Bristol Cars Group Ltd © 2026 Bristol Cars Group Ltd. All rights reserved.

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