1957 AC Ace-Bristol Roadster
- Engine
- 1.97L inline-six, pushrod-actuated hemispherical head (Bristol unit derived from pre-war BMW 328), up to 130 bhp
- Colour
- Silver-blue
Chassis BEX365 is a left-hand-drive 1957 AC Ace-Bristol Roadster, one of 463 Bristol-engined examples built, manufactured on 30 October 1957 and delivered new to France. The car competed in several French rallies and started the 1960 Le Mans 24 Hours, driven by Jean Rambaux and Pierre Boutin, retiring in the 14th hour after 130 laps. It retains all original Le Mans bodywork and chassis modifications, and underwent a substantial professional restoration in 2015. Documentation covers seven prior owners and continuous French registration.
Ownership
- 2020-10-11Auction saleSold €395,000 (≈ $435K)
- 1957 →Factory deliveryFirst French owner (details on file)partial documentation
Car was delivered new and always registered in France; left-hand drive configuration consistent with French market delivery. Full ownership chain documented in a file recording seven subsequent owners.
- 2000 →Acquisition unknownCurrent vendor, AC Owners Club France memberfull documentation
Owner for approximately 20 years prior to sale; arranged regular maintenance through Auto Techno Sports of Le Mans and commissioned a major restoration in 2015 costing over €20,000.
Competition
- 1960Le Mans 24 HoursDriver: Jean RambauxDNF — retired in the 14th hour due to mechanical failure
Car ran with competition number 57 and completed 130 laps (approximately 1,750 km) before retirement; co-driven by Pierre Boutin. Original Le Mans bodywork and chassis modifications remain on the car.
- —Rallye du Beaujolais
One of several French rallies the car participated in during its early ownership period.
- —Rallye de Dieppe
One of several French rallies the car participated in during its early ownership period.
- —Rallye Touraine-Normandie
One of several French rallies the car participated in during its early ownership period.
Maintenance & restoration
- 2015RestorationAuto Techno Sports
Extensive professional restoration carried out, with documented cost of approximately €20,027.
Invoice on file. Workshop is based in Le Mans and has been the car's regular service provider since at least 2000.
- —Modification
Engine replaced; current unit fitted is 100D 784 ST2, not the original Le Mans engine. All period Le Mans body and chassis modifications retained, including quick-fill fuel filler, split windscreen, supplementary lighting, and aerodynamic front grille cover.
Date of engine change not recorded in the catalogue.
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