Any suggestions for alternatives to a Bristol?

[Ashley James]

Jensen CV8 is a fantastic car with real character and Bentley Turbo
Rs are as cheap as chips and a grin. Both are unique although CV8s
are less expensive to sort out.
T1 Bentleys and Shadows are sluggish, troublesome and handle
dreadfully, even with the handling kit fitted. My Shadow II was a
terminal understeerer, cost me huge sums of money and still broke down
far too often.

If you don't mind going more slowly then a good MKVI Bentley is one of
the greatest of all cars and absolutely astonishing for it's age.
75-80 mph with a 3.4 to 1 axle is an all day cruising speed and
comfort, ride and silence is as good as the better moderns.

As for big rovers, IMO the 3.5L car is a much better drive.

Ashley