[Pdmiller]

I am in no position in life to purchase a Bristol, much less one needing full restoration, but sometimes one stumbles upon certain opportunities that are too good to pass up. I've been around classic cars my entire life yet have never seen a Bristol 401/403 in person. They are a pretty rare find in North America, so you can guess my surprise at stumbling upon a lead while shopping for antique furniture in Northern California.

Today I gained access to the warehouse where the car has been stored for about 20 years, but still have not been able to reach the owner. I know what I would be comfortable paying for the car, but I could really use some input from some people in the know. Car anyone help?

Here is what I know: The owner intended to hot-rod the car. The steering linkage has been moved to the left side - it's a really shoddy job - and linkage for an automatic trans is in place. I don't know too much about these cars, but I think the trans tunnel has been cut out and replaced, a new aluminum radiator and shroud have been retrofitted, and a rack and pinion has been bolted in place. The owner's friend showed me a Ford 427 he intended to put in the car - it was buried but I think it's just a bored-out 289 - and I am concerned that there are other chassis modifications that I am still missing. There is also the issue of the brake master cylinder that looks far from stock. Aside from the drivetrain, the car seems otherwise about 90-95% complete. I has smooth rear drums, so (assuming the rear end is original) it is a later 403. It also still retains its front swaybar.

In any case, can anyone offer some additional information? Again, I am new to these cars, and I have some books on the way, but I would like to know how crazy I am to even consider this car. Any input is greatly appreciated.