The 403 was the third iteration of the six-cylinder Bristols powered by the famous BMW-derived engine. It replaced the 401 and its drophead version the 402 in 1953 and continued in production for two years.
Its styling was almost identical to that of the Bristol 401 but it was improved mechanically in many ways. The 1,971cc six-cylinder engine was modified with bigger valves and larger main bearings (54mm against 51mm for the 400 and 401). Power output increased from 85bhp to 100bhp, with a commensurate increase in performance from 16.4 seconds 0-60mph to 13.4 seconds, and a top speed of 104mph.
To cope with the increase in power the 403 was fitted with a front anti-roll bar – and Alfin (aluminium-finned) drums, initially all round but later only on the front wheels, since Bristol thought that the car was overbraked.
The 403 was the last Bristol to feature a BMW-style radiator grille.
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