Bristol Blenheim (1993-11)
The Bristol Blenheim, introduced in **1993**, was designed as a **luxurious, hand-built grand tourer** aimed at a niche market of discerning buyers who valued exclusivity and craftsmanship. It was an evolution of the **Bristol Britannia**, featuring a **Chrysler V8 engine** and a focus on **refinement, comfort, and effortless performance**.
Expectations were high, as Bristol sought to maintain its tradition of producing **low-volume, high-quality cars** with a unique character. The Blenheim was known for its **smooth ride, spacious interior, and understated styling**, appealing to those who preferred a more traditional approach to luxury motoring. While it lacked the cutting-edge technology of mainstream luxury brands, it offered a **bespoke driving experience** tailored to individual customer preferences.
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Overview: The **Bristol Blenheim**, introduced in **1993**, was a crucial model for **Bristol Cars**, marking a shift toward modernized luxury while maintaining the company’s tradition of exclusivity and bespoke craftsmanship.
**Key Significance**
- **Evolution of the Bristol Britannia** – The Blenheim was a heavily revised version of the **Bristol Britannia**, featuring improved aerodynamics, updated styling, and enhanced performance.
- **Luxury & Refinement** – It introduced **higher-quality materials**, improved **sound insulation**, and a more refined driving experience.
- **Chrysler V8 Power** – Bristol continued its tradition of using **American V8 engines**, ensuring effortless performance and reliability.
- **Hand-Built Exclusivity** – Like all Bristol models, the Blenheim was **hand-assembled**, catering to a niche market of wealthy enthusiasts.
- **Long Production Run** – It remained in production until **2011**, evolving through multiple updates, including the **Blenheim 2** and **Blenheim 3**.
The Blenheim reinforced Bristol’s reputation for **low-volume, high-quality luxury cars**, appealing to buyers who valued individuality over mainstream prestige. Would you like to explore how it compared to rivals of the time? You can find more details [here](https://www.carandclassic.com/magazine/what-could-have-been-bristol-cars/).
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COMMON FAULTS
The **Bristol Blenheim** is a rare classic, but like any hand-built luxury car, it has its quirks. Here are some **common faults** owners have reported:
- **Rust Issues** – The steel chassis and body panels can suffer from corrosion, especially around the **wheel arches** and **sills**.
- **Electrical Gremlins** – Wiring problems, particularly with the **dashboard instruments** and **lighting**, can occur due to aging components.
- **Suspension Wear** – The **bushings and dampers** may need regular attention, as they can degrade over time.
- **Chrysler V8 Maintenance** – While robust, the **engine** requires proper tuning and care, especially regarding **cooling system efficiency**.
- **Interior Trim Aging** – Leather and wood veneers may show signs of wear, requiring restoration.
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Generation/Trim Levels
The **Bristol Blenheim** evolved through several generations, each refining its luxury and performance:
**Generations**
1. **Blenheim 1 (1993–1997)**
- Based on the Bristol Britannia but with updated styling and improved aerodynamics.
- Featured a **5.9L Chrysler V8** engine.
2. **Blenheim 2 (1997–2000)**
- Introduced refinements in **suspension, interior quality, and fuel efficiency**.
- Slightly revised bodywork for better aerodynamics.
3. **Blenheim 3 (2000–2011)**
- Further improvements in **performance, handling, and luxury features**.
- Offered in **standard coupe and Speedster variants**.
**Variants & Trim Levels**
- **Blenheim Speedster (2004–2011)** – A rare open-top version with a **sportier design**.
- **Blenheim 3G (2002–2011)** – The final iteration with **modernized features and enhanced drivability**.
Each version maintained Bristol’s tradition of **hand-built craftsmanship and exclusivity**. Would you like to explore how these models compared to rivals of the time? You can find more details [here](https://www.autoevolution.com/bristol/blenheim/).
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Designer/Dimensions
The **Bristol Blenheim** was designed by **Tony Crook**, who was the driving force behind Bristol Cars during its later years. The Blenheim was an evolution of the **Bristol Britannia**, featuring updated styling and improved aerodynamics.
**Dimensions**
- **Wheelbase:** 2,870 mm (113 in)
- **Length:** 4,950 mm (195 in)
- **Width:** 1,800 mm (71 in)
- **Height:** 1,450 mm (57 in)
- **Kerb weight:** ~1,800 kg (3,970 lbs)
Its **long wheelbase** and **hand-built construction** made it a refined grand tourer, emphasizing comfort and exclusivity. Would you like to explore how its design influenced later Bristol models? You can find more details [here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bristol_Blenheim).
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Production Total: The **Bristol Blenheim** had a **limited production run**, with approximately **150–200 units** built across its different variants. This makes it one of the **rarest Bristol models**, adding to its exclusivity and collector appeal.
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Price New: The **Bristol Blenheim** was priced at approximately **£89,000** when new in the UK in **1993**. This positioned it as a **high-end luxury grand tourer**, competing with models from **Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, and Bentley**.
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Sales: The **Bristol Blenheim** was **not a major sales success**, but it maintained Bristol’s tradition of **low-volume, high-end luxury cars**. With an estimated **150–200 units produced**, it remained an **exclusive offering** for a niche market of wealthy enthusiasts.
Bristol’s **direct sales model**, where buyers had to visit the company’s showroom in London, limited its broader commercial appeal. However, it attracted **loyal customers** who valued its **hand-built craftsmanship** and **bespoke engineering**.
Would you like to explore how it compared to rivals of the time? You can find more details [here](https://www.autoevolution.com/bristol/blenheim/).
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Rivals: In **1993**, the Bristol Blenheim's main rivals in the UK had the following approximate new prices:
- **Aston Martin Virage** – £120,000
- **Bentley Brooklands** – £85,000
- **Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit III** – £95,000
- **Jaguar XJ12** – £45,000
- **Mercedes-Benz 600 SEL** – £100,000
The **Bristol Blenheim**, priced at **£89,000**, positioned itself between the **Bentley Brooklands** and **Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit III**, offering exclusivity and hand-built craftsmanship. Would you like to explore how these models compared in performance or luxury features? You can find more details [here](https://www.theclassicvaluer.com/cars/bristol/blenheim).
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Here’s how the **main rivals** of the **Bristol Blenheim** performed in **1993** in the UK:
- **Aston Martin Virage** – **Top speed:** ~155 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~6.5 sec | **Power:** 5.3L V8, ~330 bhp
- **Bentley Brooklands** – **Top speed:** ~135 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~8.5 sec | **Power:** 6.75L V8, ~300 bhp
- **Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit III** – **Top speed:** ~125 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~9.0 sec | **Power:** 6.75L V8, ~240 bhp
- **Jaguar XJ12** – **Top speed:** ~140 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~7.2 sec | **Power:** 6.0L V12, ~318 bhp
- **Mercedes-Benz 600 SEL** – **Top speed:** ~155 mph | **0-60 mph:** ~6.6 sec | **Power:** 6.0L V12, ~389 bhp
The **Bristol Blenheim**, with a **top speed of around 140 mph** and **0-60 mph in about 6.3 seconds**, positioned itself as a refined grand tourer rather than a high-performance sports car.
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Engine/s
The **Bristol Blenheim** was powered by a **5.9L Chrysler V8** engine, which was a staple of Bristol’s lineup during this era. Here are its key specifications:
- **Displacement**: 5.9L (5,899 cc)
- **Power Output**: ~250 bhp
- **Torque**: ~340 lb-ft
- **Fuel System**: Carbureted (later models had fuel injection)
- **Transmission**: 4-speed automatic
- **Configuration**: Naturally aspirated V8
- **Cooling System**: Water-cooled
This engine provided **smooth, effortless power**, making the Blenheim a refined grand tourer rather than a high-performance sports car. Would you like to explore how it compares to rival engines of the time? You can find more details [here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bristol_Blenheim).
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Performance
The **Bristol Blenheim** offered refined grand touring performance rather than outright speed. Here are its key specifications:
- **Top Speed**: ~140 mph (225 km/h)
- **0-60 mph Acceleration**: ~6.3 seconds
- **Engine**: 5.9L Chrysler V8, producing **250 bhp**
- **Torque**: ~340 lb-ft
- **Transmission**: 4-speed automatic
- **Weight**: ~1,800 kg (3,970 lbs)
Its **smooth V8 power** and **luxurious ride** made it ideal for long-distance cruising rather than aggressive driving. Would you like to compare its performance to rivals of the time? You can find more details [here](https://www.parkers.co.uk/bristol/blenheim/specs/).
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of **2025**, there are approximately **7 Bristol Blenheims** recorded as licensed in the UK, with an additional **7 vehicles registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)**. This makes it an **extremely rare classic**, with only a handful remaining on British roads.
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Target Age Group: The **Bristol Blenheim** was aimed at a **wealthy, mature audience** who valued **luxury, exclusivity, and craftsmanship**. Given its **high price** and **limited production**, it primarily attracted:
- **Affluent professionals** – Business executives and entrepreneurs seeking a refined grand tourer.
- **Motoring enthusiasts** – Those who appreciated Bristol’s bespoke engineering and unique styling.
- **Collectors** – Buyers who sought rare, hand-built British luxury cars.
- **Older drivers** – The car’s effortless V8 power and comfortable ride made it ideal for long-distance touring.
Even today, the **Blenheim** remains a **cult classic**, attracting collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its **distinctive design and exclusivity**.
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Spares/Specialists NI
If you're looking for **Bristol** spares in the **UK and Ireland**, here are some great sources:
- **[Pegasus Parts](https://bristoloda.org/parts-availability/)** – Operated by the **Bristol Owners and Drivers Association (BODA)**, this organization specializes in sourcing and manufacturing rare Bristol parts.
- **[AutoShop UK](https://www.autoshop.co.uk/home/169367/412.htm?subgroup=IGNP-FI)** – Offers a variety of classic car parts, including Bristol components. You can search by vehicle registration for specific fitments.
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Racing
The **Bristol Blenheim** was **not designed for racing** and did not have a significant motorsport presence - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/bristol/blenheim/). Bristol Cars focused on **luxury grand tourers** rather than competition vehicles. However, some enthusiasts have modified Bristol models for **historic racing events** and **private track use**.
Would you like to explore Bristol’s earlier racing heritage, such as its involvement in **Formula 2** and **Le Mans**? You can find more details [here](https://bing.com/search?q=Bristol+Blenheim+racing+history).
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Valuation
In **2025**, the **Bristol Blenheim** is valued at approximately **£28,740** in average condition. The **lowest recorded sale** was **£23,625**, while the **highest** reached **£42,750**. Prices can vary depending on **condition, originality, and rarity**.
Would you like help finding one for sale or advice on restoration? You can check listings [here](https://www.theclassicvaluer.com/cars/bristol/blenheim).
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Clubs
If you're looking for **Bristol 412** spares in the **UK and Ireland**, here are some great sources:
- **[Pegasus Parts](https://bristoloda.org/parts-availability/)** – Operated by the **Bristol Owners and Drivers Association (BODA)**, this organization specializes in sourcing and manufacturing rare Bristol parts.
- **[AutoShop UK](https://www.autoshop.co.uk/home/169367/412.htm?subgroup=IGNP-FI)** – Offers a variety of classic car parts, including Bristol components. You can search by vehicle registration for specific fitments.
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