1972 BRISTOL 411 Series 3 6.3L V8 3AT (340 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Bristol introduced the 411 series in 1969, but it didn’t want to left it unchanged for the following years and, by 1972, it already passed to the second series.

At the beginning of the ’70s, the “facelift” word was not invented yet, and the conservative British carmakers used the term “model-year” or “series.” So, in 1971 was the series 2 for the 411 range. The former aircraft builder remained true to its idea to overthink a car and build it by aviation standards as much as possible, and the 411 was a fine example for that.

Along with the Series 2, the 411 received a new front fascia. It was the first Bristol to feature a dual-headlights system. As a result, almost half of the grille was covered by the four headlamps, with the concentric squared silver trims between them. Its chromed bumper sported the turns signals, discretely installed underneath the outer side. While it kept the same sedan shape with two doors, the 411 was proof of classic British styling, uninfluenced by Italian or American designers.

Inside, Bristol made the car a personal luxury vehicle, with leather upholstery and wood trims. Thanks to its three-box shape and tall greenhouse in the back, it offered enough headroom for rear passengers, but the problem was with the legroom if the driver was just above average. The wheelbase was long. That wasn’t the problem, but the long engine compartment pushed the cabin further back, leading to a short cabin.

Under the hood, Bristol relied on the 6.3-liter engine provided by Chrysler, and the American carmaker also provided the three-speed automatic gearbox. Bristol added a self-leveling suspension on the Series 2, which led to a better, more comfortable ride.