Bristol 401 in Duxford auction (Derek Cunningham's car)

dkleeman · #1 (**permalink**) 15-09-24, 08:13 AM

This car (LHO 401) has been described in this forum before. It is coming up for auction in the H&H auction in Duxford on 9th October link here.

This was apparently owned by Derek Cunningham for many years and there is a Motor Sport Magazine article from 1956 that mentions it. I think I saw it in the carpark at Goodwood this year looking very shiny. If it only makes the guide price then I think it will have been loss-making for someone in a very major way!

Daniel

405dh · #2 (**permalink**) 25-09-24, 04:14 PM

Yes, it does appear to have had a lot of money spent on it over a long period of time. However, I'm very puzzled at the appearance of the rear quarters either side. It looks as though panels are missing. The exhaust seems to take a peculiar route too and is surely far too visible?
Can anyone shed any light on this? I queried it with the auctioneers on Monday, who said they would check into it with people who knew the car very well and revert straight back to me, but have had no response so far. They said it had been in storage and not used on the road since restoration so probably not the car seen at Goodwood.

Chris

Hillman · #3 (**permalink**) 26-09-24, 08:28 AM

The car is missing both its front and rear valances.

405dh · #4 (**permalink**) 26-09-24, 09:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hillman

The car is missing both its front and rear valances.

The front appears complete but certainly the rear offside and nearside are missing. Are these a simple bolt on, assuming they can be found?

Excalibur · #5 (**permalink**) 27-09-24, 08:58 AM

There seems to be empty holes in the dashboard and the steering wheel centre is missing.
There’s no mention in the listing of any spare parts with the car.

dkleeman · #6 (**permalink**) 10-10-24, 07:09 AM

I think it went for a hammer price of £34,000.