1966 Bristol 408
Rectangular turn indicator lamps and a new rectangular grille with pronounced horizontal bars distinguished the Bristol 408 from its predecessor when production began in 1963. The frontal styling carried over from the six-cylinder 405 and 406 models was discarded in favor of this more contemporary appearance.
Mechanically, the 408 remained largely identical to the 407, continuing Bristol’s use of American Chrysler V-8 power and automatic transmission. The transmission retained Chrysler’s push-button TorqueFlite controls (revised in rectangular form), and engineering refinements included detail improvements and chassis updates rather than major mechanical changes.
Engineering refinements included a new cast alloy transmission case that reduced weight by over 65 pounds compared to previous eight-cylinder Bristols. Curb weight was approximately 3,300 pounds (about 1,500 kg), depending on specification.
Production continued through 1966, with the 408 representing Bristol’s continued evolution of their V8-powered grand touring formula established with the 407’s departure from traditional six-cylinder powertrains.
Source
