1951 Bristol

Bristol 401 – 1951

2. 0-litre six-cylinder manual coupé

Registration: USV 177

Mileage: 85, 600

Price: £26, 500

This 1951 Bristol 401 is a charming and unusually well-known example of one of Bristol’s most elegant early post-war models. Finished in beige/ gold metallic with a light interior, it presents as a highly usable, characterful and largely cherished car rather than an over-restored showpiece.

The 401 remains one of the great aerodynamic British coupés of its period, with its flowing fastback profile, faired-in rear wheels, split windscreen, distinctive Bristol grille and beautifully restrained detailing. Even today, the shape has real presence: understated, intelligent and unmistakably Bristol.

This particular car is supported by a handwritten owner’s statement from Nigel Turner dated 27 April 2026. Mr Turner states that he purchased the car almost 53 years ago, on 5 October 1973, in a private sale in North London. That makes this a very long-term ownership car, with a level of continuity rarely seen in the market.

According to the owner’s statement, the mileage of 85, 550 miles is believed to be correct. The car was originally registered JSC 32, before being changed by the DVLA in 1985 to USV 177, after the original number was not recognised within the newer Swansea computer records before the December 1983 deadline.

The owner further states that the car has never been driven by anyone else during his ownership, and that it has been taxed every year, usually from May, though never SORNed. It is described by him as an excellent vehicle in every respect and one that “will be sorely missed.”

Over the years, the car has received attention from respected Bristol and classic car specialists, including John Giles of TT Workshops, Spencer Lane-Jones of Warminster, Brian Lane of Shirley in the West Midlands, and more recently Mark Wilding of Kyte Garage, Great Cheverell, Wiltshire.

Visually, the car has a wonderful period presence. The paintwork has a warm, aged metallic tone that suits the aerodynamic body beautifully, while the chrome, lamps and grille give the front end real distinction. The interior appears honest and inviting, with beige trim, a wood dashboard and the correct period atmosphere. The steering wheel shows wear and age, but this forms part of the car’s long-term character and originality story rather than detracting from its appeal.

Mechanically, this is the desirable Bristol 2. 0-litre petrol engine paired with the 4-speed manual gearbox, the classic specification that gives the 401 its refined and quietly sporting character.

This is not simply another early Bristol. It is a long-term ownership car with a strong personal history, known maintenance names, believed-correct mileage and a superbly elegant shape. For someone looking for an honest, usable and deeply characterful Bristol 401, USV 177 represents a very appealing opportunity.

Key Details

1951 Bristol 401

Registration: USV 177

Previously registered: JSC 32

Beige/ gold metallic exterior

Light interior

1, 998cc petrol engine

4-speed manual gearbox

85, 600 miles

Long-term ownership since 5 October 1973

Owner’s statement from Nigel Turner dated 27 April 2026

Mileage stated by the owner to be believed correct

Registration changed by DVLA in 1985 to USV 177

Maintained over the years by respected Bristol/ classic specialists

Price: £26, 500

SLJ Hackett, Official Heritage Partner of Bristol Cars

Approved by Bristol Cars Group Ltd

2026 Bristol Cars Group Ltd. All rights reserved.