1959 AC Bristol (Astoria, OR)

1959 AC Bristol

1959 AC Bristol BEX495 is a US model left hand drive example that was originally painted red and shipped to the USA where it was reportedly used on race tracks in the midwest for the first two years of its life. In 1963 it was sold to its third and most recent owner a resident of California. Upon entry into Southern California some problems developed with the original Bristol 100D2 engine 867. An attempt to repair was made but the owner of the car believe he had the wrong mechanic for that complicated engine. Either way receipts are on hand for parts purchased in 1963 and 1964 from AC Cars Ltd. After repairs didnt result in a properly running Bristol engine a quest was undertaken for a suitable replacement. After all Cobras were already running around Southern California and doing just fine. In 1964 the dream of rebuilding the Bristol engine were abandoned and a 1957 Chevrolet 283 engine was purchased and installed in the car. The owner reports it was an easy installation that utilized the original motor mounts. The AC was a weekend driver for the next twenty years until it was taken off the road in the hopes of one day receiving a cosmetic restoration. That restoration began but never happened and this car is today being offered from the third owner with just over 40 000 original miles. It has a new set of wire wheels and new period-correct tires. The original engine is long gone but this car has a very good body and chassis. It has a full interior gauges convertible top and side curtains. For only 157 500.