This 1948 Bristol 400 is one of about 500 built over a five year period ending in 1950. As is hinted at by the double kidney grille, these cars were heavily based on existing pre-war BMW designs, specifically the 328’s straight-six and 326’s chassis. Bristol’s very first car, this example runs a rebuilt, blueprinted motor, gearbox, and differential, and has also undergone rust repair and rewiring. Now in primer, it still needs cosmetic finishing, but is said to run very well. Find it here on Pre War Car somewhere in Australia for $42,500 AUD (~$32k USD today).

Styling was inspired by BMW’s 327, and though primarily bodied in steel, Bristol’s aircraft manufacturing roots meant it was perfectly natural for the hood, trunk, and door skins to be made from aluminum. Details are vague, but the seller notes that all preexisting rust was repaired, and the car now wears primer. Some final bodywork looks like it may be in order prior to applying new paint. Says the seller: “This vehicle is only bolted together, final fitting of the doors, boot and bonnet, paint, trim, chrome etc. is still required.”

No full-frame interior shots are provided. but gauges and switchgear as well as the OEM steering wheel appear to remain intact.

Underneath a piano-hinged hood, the Bee-Em-based 2.0 liter straight six runs a hemi head and triple carbs for approximately 80 HP, which in combo with the car’s slippery shape was good for about 95 MPH flat-out. This one’s been rebuilt, balanced, and blueprinted, and both the gearbox and differential have received similar attention. It’s said to run very smoothly, and all-new wiring is said to be of the correct type–presumably meaning old-style cloth-wrapped stuff.

All of the heavy lifting sounds to have already been done here, leaving a nice, blank slate for the next owner.We think it’d look great in a deep blue over dark brown leather.