1957 AC ACE-BRISTOL
Blue metallic with Red leather interior and Red carpeting, Restored, 2-Owners from new, Numbers Matching, Original California Black license plate sill with 1967 and 1968 registration stickers attached, Excellent Southern Califorina history.
The AC Bristol is powered by a 1,971 CC OHV Inline 6-Cylinder Engine with Triple Solex Carburetors and produces 125 BHP at 5,000 RPM. The drivetrain runs through a 4-speed manual gearbox, it has Girling front disc brakes with rear drums and 4-wheel independent suspension. In the day, the Ace Bristol was a very responsive and capable package and “the car” to have.
This AC Bristol was sold new in Los Angeles, California. Early in its history this Bristol participated in local racing events including the 1959 Willow Springs Hill Climb.
In their day, Ace Bristols found a devoted following and were among the “hot cars” of the late 1950s. Not only were they quick, the AC’s graceful alloy coachwork instantly placed the Bristol among the most beautiful roadsters ever designed.
Acquired in 2005 from only its second owner, it was an extremely original example still equipped with its original engine and red leather upholstery. The alloy bodywork, which rarely survives well, was exceptionally straight.
The car was then the subject of a sympathetic body-off restoration by Charles Crail of Santa Barbara, California, the quality of which is immediately apparent upon inspection. No detail was left untouched during the restoration. Since being restored, this Bristol has seen little use, recently it returned to Charles Crail’s workshop for mechanical servicing, sorting and meticulous detailing.
1-631-425-1555
Car is in New York
photo and text credit: © 2011 hemmings.com
