Bristol 411 History

The 411 (1969–1976) is widely regarded as the pinnacle of the classic Bristol formula. Where the 407–410 had used the small-block 5.2-litre Chrysler V8, the 411 stepped up to the big-block 383 cubic inch (6,277 cc) unit, raising power to approximately 264 bhp (Series 1, quoted gross) and torque substantially — giving a genuine top speed of roughly 140–143 mph. Bristol marketed it as costing around 15 per cent less than a comparable Rolls-Royce.

Five series were produced across seven years. Series 1 (1969–1971) introduced the 383 big-block. Series 2 (1971–1972) added self-levelling rear suspension. Series 3 (1972–1974) adopted a four-headlamp front grille. Series 4 (1974) stepped up to the 6,556 cc (400 cubic inch) V8 with power now quoted net rather than gross. Series 5 (1975–1976) restored the original Bristol badge and introduced inertia-reel seatbelts. Total production: 287 examples — handbuilt, to order, at a rate of no more than three cars a week.