Bristol Sports Car Books - History, Models and Construction

Bristol Cars - Model by Model

Since 1946, the Bristol badge has been featured on a series of high-performance, reliable, and expensive cars with 6-, 8-, and 10-cylinder engines. Although it initially received praise from the automotive press, the brand became more obscure during the 1980s and 1990s. Now, under new ownership, Bristol is planning a revival with modern models.

This book highlights the unique history of each Bristol car, covering production, coachbuilt versions, and racing models. It includes detailed specifications and is illustrated with over 400 photographs.

Bristol Cars (1946-2012)

Brooklands Portfolio book about the Bristol models from the years 1946-2012. Describes the Bristol 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 407, 408, 409, 410, 411, 412, 450, 603, Beaufighter, Brigand, Britannia, Blenheim, Fighter, Arnold and the Lister Bristols.

• The 138 articles, taken from contemporary British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and technology.
• Also driving impressions, tests, comparison tests, technical specifications, etc.

▶  More information on the Brooklands Portfolio books

Bristol Six-Cylinder Cars

NEW

Bristol Cars originated as a branch of the Bristol Aeroplane Company, a leading aircraft manufacturer in the 1920s and 1930s. This book, written by Bristol expert Christopher Balfour, covers the history of the six-cylinder cars produced by Bristol between 1946 and 1961.
It begins by outlining the background of the Bristol Aeroplane Company, established in 1910 by Sir George White in Filton. The book details the development of the first Bristol car, the 400, which was based on BMW designs brought to Britain as part of post-war reparations. The following models - 401, 402, and 403 - used an Italian 'Superleggera' metal body construction, gaining global recognition but proving costly to produce.

To manage costs, the 404 and 405 models were introduced with part-wood bodies. As financial difficulties grew, Bristol Cars split from its parent company and faced challenges in developing new models, such as the 220 and 225, with reduced resources.
Despite these hurdles, Bristol Cars maintained high standards, offering exceptional craftsmanship and interiors comparable to luxury brands like Bentley and Aston Martin. With rare archival photos, this book provides a comprehensive overview of Bristol's six-cylinder models.

Bristol 403

NEW

The Bristol 403, launched in 1953, quickly became a symbol of British automotive design with its sleek, aerodynamic shape. In this book, Bristol 403 owner John Manley outlines the car's development, covering the history of the Bristol Aircraft Company and its move into car manufacturing.
Built to aircraft standards, the 403 benefited from advanced aerodynamic engineering, making it the most prominent model in Bristol's "aerodyne" series.

The combination of the Bristol engine, unique aerodynamics, and high build quality made the 403 successful in motorsport, achieving notable results in events like the Monte Carlo Rally, Tulip Rally, and the Daily Express Production Touring Car Championships at Silverstone. The author also shares insights into the experience of owning and driving this classic model.
Featuring exclusive illustrations, this book serves as a comprehensive guide to one of the most influential British cars of the 1950s.

Bristol 408

NEW

The Bristol 408, alongside its precursor, the 407, marked a significant milestone for the esteemed Bristol Car Company, introducing their first eight-cylinder cars.
Rooted in the heritage of the Bristol Aircraft Company in Filton, located in the western part of England, Bristol Cars earned a distinguished reputation for crafting automobiles to aviation standards, renowned for their unparalleled reliability, performance, and bespoke luxury.

In this tradition, the Bristol 408 continued the legacy. The car distinguished itself by featuring a robust V8 engine paired with automatic transmission, furnishing it with the power and agility needed to rival luxury performance cars from Jensen, Jaguar, and Aston Martin.
This book, enriched with lavish illustrations, narrates the complete saga of this extraordinary automobile.