Hi Rob. Welcome to the Bristol world. I'm a huge fan of the 412, and I'm sure that having acquired one, you'll be delighted with it. As with all Bristol's values have risen. Not so many years ago, I knew of a really splendid 412 that £4,800.00 would have bought. In recent months what can only be described as a derelict Beaufighter with frontal accident damage, and thoroughly rotten made nearly that at auction. You'll need to consider your description of good and useable. In my view a good car will be in excess of £20,000.00, a useable car perhaps £12-15,000.00.
Corrosion is the big issue. Particular attention should be paid to the rollover structure. They can rot very badly there, as can the chassis, and the wing lockers. Mechanically they are straightforward and robust, but I'd commend a thorough review of the cooling system. Some parts can be challenging, front and rear lights, and many minor fittings like the targa fittings and the associated rubbers.
In the UK Andrew Blow is a great guy to contact, as is Brian May in Solihull.
Hope you find your car, I found mine and love the big orange beast!
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