Bristol 401 History

The 401 (1948–1953) replaced the 400 with a more aerodynamically considered body, developed with the help of a wind tunnel and clothed in aluminium panels over a Superleggera (light alloy over tubular steel) framework by the Milanese coachbuilder Carrozzeria Touring. The result was sleeker and slightly roomier than the 400, comfortably seating five adults — a notable achievement in a British specialist car of the era.

Under the skin the 1,971 cc BMW-derived straight-six was refined to the 85C specification producing 85 bhp, delivered through a four-speed manual gearbox. At 611 cars, the 401 had the largest single production run in Bristol's history and is widely regarded as the definitive expression of the company's early character. A small-production open companion, the Type 402 drophead coupe (only 21–24 built), was offered alongside it.