1968 | Bristol 410

The Bristol 410 was the fourth series of Chrysler V8-engined models and the last to use the 5.2 litre engine originally found in the Bristol 407. With the 410, Bristol aimed for a more aerodynamic approach than that found on their previous five series dating back to the 405. The styling improvements were relatively minor but every one of them was aimed to make for a more curved appearance. The most noteworthy change was that the front headlamps were fully faired into the wings of the car rather than protruding outwards as on previous models. Bristol, like Chrysler before them, by then had felt that the safety problems of push-button automatic transmission were too difficult to counter and thus they shifted to a more conventional lever mounted between the two front seats.

This particular example appeared on the Earls Court Motor Show in 1968, where it was purchased by a Mr. Williams for £5,997, more than four times the average salary in the UK at the time! The car became part of Mr Williams' family, using it as his daily car and never purchasing another car, continuing to drive it until he was 91 years of age. Mr Williams owned the Magnet Restaurant in Plymouth and parked the Bristol outside the establishment everyday, making it a very well-known car in the local area. He was also the Chairman of Plymouth Argyle Football Club. Mr Williams' Son took over ownership of the car in 2000, continuing to enjoy it until 2023.

The car was taken to highly regarded Bristol specialist, S.L.J Hackett in 2026, who found a few area of concern around the car, leading to some restoration work being carried out. The work consisted of some structural repairs around the chassis legs, rear suspension area, fuel tank area and boot area. New rear seat belts were also fitted, as well as various seals and mountings being replaced. The total repair bill totalling nearly £6,000. The bodywork was resprayed a few years ago to a nice standard and the overall condition of the car is very good. Further adding to this example's interest history is its appearance as a hero car in seven episodes of Call The Midwife in 2023. Supplied to auction with a V5C registration document, original buff logbook and invoices for works since 2016. Consigned by Fraser Smith

Lot details
Year: 1968
Make: Bristol
Model: 410
Registration: NDV 439F
Chassis No: 410-7445
Engine No: 318-03-15T
Odometer: 99,947


* Single family ownership from 1968 until 2023

* Earls Court Motor Show car

* Star of hit TV show 'Call the Midwife'

* One of only 82 Bristol 410's produced