1975 Bristol 412

Bristol 412 (Convertible), 1975-1982

The Bristol 412 was in production from 1975-1982. Styled by Zagato, it is a front-engine, rear wheel drive open touring range seating four adults.

It was one of a pair of designs developed as replacements for the aging 411 model, the other being the 603 saloon which more closely resembled the concept of previous models. For the 412, Bristol renewed its long standing acquaintanceship with the Italian styling house Zagato, resulting in a somewhat angular four-seat targa convertible model which on price along became Bristol's entry level model. Chassis were constructed at Bristol's Filton factory, before being married to bodyshells that had been built in Italy. Early cars had the 411's 6.2 litre engine, later models shared the 5.9 litre unit of the 603S. There was never an E-engined economy variant of the 412 using the 5.2 litre 603E engine, as 603E sales had underwhelmed the company. An American specification was developed with a stronger roll bar and a catalytic converter, but the cars never made it to the States - most of the development cars were sold to German or Swiss customers.

Bristol launched the 412 S2 in 1977, with a revised differential ratio of 2.88:1, front suspension changes and redesigned seats. It was in this form that 412 production would continue to 1982 - alongside the new for 1980 turbocharged Beaufighter model. Never Bristol's most popular model, the 412 has long been one of Filton's more affordable products - though as time passes a greater interest has led to appreciating values.

The Bristol 411, 603 and Beaufighter are all excellent alternatives for the buyer who simply has to own a Bristol at any cost. If however, you want a 1970s convertible that speaks of wealth and taste, there are options. The Mercedes-Benz SL R107 was the in-car for most of the decade, but only has two seats. A Rolls-Royce Corniche would perhaps suit those who must have the best of everything. But conceptually we think that the Jensen Interceptor convertible, which also marries Italian style, British craftsmanship and an American V8, is the closest thing to a true 412 competitor that you might find on the market.