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1957 AC Bristol
s/n BEX307, Engine No. 643
Dark Metallic Blue with Tan Leather

In 1953 AC Cars built the Ace Roadster with a 100hp AC power plant riding on a light, tubular chassis under a beautiful, hand formed aluminum body. In 1956 AC built the Bristol Roadster which featured the lightweight tubular Ace chassis and a 2.0 litre Bristol six-cylinder engine with 3 downdraft carburetors producing 120 horsepower. Due to its light weight of only 1650 pounds, the car had great performance and handling. These cars raced at Le Mans in 1957 and 1958. Just 466 examples were built with the Bristol power plant between 1956 and 1962. When Bristol ceased building their 6-cylinder engine in 1961 the owner, Charles Hurlock, was approached by Carroll Shelby to use a Ford V8 in the Ace chassis, producing the AC Cobra in 1962. Production of the Ace Bristol ended the same year. The AC Cobra was further developed into the legendary 289 and 427 Cobra`s which dominated the motor racing world. Unlike the AC Cobra, this AC Bristol (produced in 1957) is eligible for many of the premier historic events such as the Le Mans Classic, Italian and California Mille Miglia, and the Monterey Historics, among others.

This matching numbers example has been the subject of comprehensive restoration. While there are no records detailing exactly what was done, when, and by whom, it is evident that the car was completely repainted, totally reupholstered, and any and all necessary mechanical issues dealt with. All the work done is of the very highest quality, and this was confirmed at the 2005 Greenwich Concourse where this car won its class, beating four other AC Bristols. It is very likely that both the engine and gearbox were completely rebuilt, as both operate as if they were new. All the gauges have been rebuilt, and all are fully operable, including the clock. This car has been updated in the front from drum to disc brakes, as the factory did with the later production AC Bristols. This will be a welcome upgrade when participating in rallies or track events. The car is harmonious and predictable, and is truly a delight to drive.

Currently there are no known issues with the car mechanically. Much work was completed during the current ownership period to insure that the car has remained in top shape. In December of 2004 the radiator was restored and the thermostat replaced, along with the mechanical fuel pump. Last year the clock, speedometer, and tachometer were all restored, new plug wires fitted, and the brake system restored with new master and slave cylinders, and new soft brake hose. In July the clutch master cylinder also was replaced. Last October the valves were adjusted, carburetors rebuilt, and distributor serviced. All the work was done by Northumberland Engineering in South Hampton NY.

The car has seen a very high quality and recent repaint. While there is no evidence that he car was ever a different color, it is unknown if the car was always dark blue. There are no chips or dings of any significance anywhere on the body. The chrome is good throughout, with no major pitting or deterioration. There is very little or no pitting to the windshield or headlights. The car sits on painted 5.50X16 steel wire wheels painted silver, with near new, period typical Michelin Pilote X tires.

The classic and simplistic interior is in show condition with very high quality leather trimming on the dash, door panels, and seats. The carpets are also like new, with fitted inlays to protect the floor carpet. The beautiful original wood rimmed steering wheel has been refinished, and the gauges restored.

The condition of the engine compartment is consistent with older restoration, but stresses originality, and is complete with correct air cleaner housings, fuel line, and radiator. A more user friendly Optima battery has been fitted. Like the engine compartment, the underside is solid, complete, and unmodified, but not detailed for show. There is no evidence of rust or damage repairs to the chassis or the body. There is however, evidence that at one time water seeped through the water jacket to the exterior of the block on the right side, an issue common to these cars. The car does not currently leak water, and this condition does not impede the use of the car.

With the car come records for work done during the current ownership period (2004-2006), the correct vinyl top cover and top bows, the factory side windows, the vinyl interior tonneau cover, the tool roll and knock off hammer, original owners manual and spare wire wheel with correct Michelin tire.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.