1969 Bristol 411 S1

1969 Bristol 411 Series 1

6.3-Litre Chrysler V8 | Extensive History File | Significant Mechanical and Coachwork Expenditure

SLJ Hackett is delighted to present this 1969 Bristol 411 Series 1, finished in elegant grey and representing one of the most significant developments in the history of Bristol Cars.

Introduced at the 1969 Earls Court Motor Show, the 411 marked a substantial step forward for the marque. Its new 6,277cc Chrysler V8 offered considerably more power and torque than the preceding 410, transforming an already accomplished luxury motor car into one of the fastest genuine four-seat grand tourers of its era, with a quoted top speed of approximately 143 mph.

Yet outright performance was only part of the Bristol philosophy. Hand-built aluminium coachwork, understated styling, an exceptionally comfortable four-seat cabin and long-distance touring ability made the 411 a distinctive alternative to the more conspicuous luxury cars of the period.

As an early Series 1 example, this 1969 car represents the original specification of a model that would remain an important part of Bristol’s range throughout the 1970s.

Significant Recent Expenditure

The previous owners invested considerable sums in both the mechanical condition and structural integrity of this Bristol, with invoices retained in the accompanying history file.

Mechanical improvements include:

New-old-stock Rochester Quadrajet carburettor, fitted and tuned.

High-torque starter motor fitted.

Replacement fuel pump.

Period-style radio with iPod connectivity.

Structural and coachwork improvements include:

Extensive repairs to the chassis rails on both sides of the vehicle.

New boot floor, individually fabricated and fitted.

Replacement aluminium door skin, hand-fabricated, fitted and painted.

New aluminium sections hand-fabricated for the offside front wing to address corrosion, followed by repainting.

These works reflect meaningful investment in areas of particular importance when maintaining a hand-built Bristol of this age.

History and Provenance

The car is accompanied by an extensive history file, including invoices documenting the improvements detailed above.

It has also been displayed at Goodwood on a number of occasions, adding an interesting chapter to its ownership history.

A Distinctive British Grand Tourer

The Bristol 411 Series 1 combines the traditional craftsmanship and discreet elegance of Bristol’s coachbuilt motor cars with the effortless performance of a large-capacity Chrysler V8.

Early 411s occupy a particularly interesting position in the marque’s history, bridging Bristol’s established post-war tradition and the increasingly powerful luxury grand tourers that followed.

For collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate engineering integrity, individuality and understated British luxury, this 1969 Bristol 411 Series 1 is a compelling example of the marque.

For further information about this motor car, its history and accompanying documentation, please contact SLJ Hackett.