THE GROWING collection of aerospace and engineering greats in Filton has added another local legend with the introduction of a classic Bristol car.

The Aerospace Bristol museum, which is set to open to the public this summer, has welcomed the 1953 Bristol 403 saloon car, which was designed, tested and manufactured by the Bristol Aeroplane Company more than 60 years ago.

The company diversified into car design and manufacture at the end of the Second World War, with the division going on to become Bristol Cars, which became famous for the quality and luxury of the vehicles they produced.

Linda Coode, collections manager at Aerospace Bristol, said: “The Bristol 403 was actually tested in The Bristol Aeroplane Company’s wind tunnel and this aviation heritage can be clearly seen in the aerodynamic body design.

The bonnet, doors, fuel filler cap and boot all open from the inside, to remove the wind resistance that would be caused by external handles. It’s a fine example of high performance engineering to come out of Filton and we’re thrilled to feature it in the Aerospace Bristol exhibition.”

The vehicle, which will be displayed in the museum, was discovered in a barn in South West England, where it had been stored for over 30 years and had fallen into disrepair.

The classic car was rescued by the Bristol Owners Heritage Trust and carefully restored to its former glory by volunteer apprentices from restoration experts Spencer Lane Jones.

Now restored and ready for public display, the luxury vehicle has been delivered to Hangar 16S: the grade II listed WWI hangar that will house the Aerospace Bristol exhibition when the £19m industrial heritage museum opens this summer.

Stefan Cembrowicz, chairman of the Bristol Owners Heritage Trust, said: “I would like to thank all of the dedicated volunteers who prepared the Bristol 403 to such a high standard.

“Hundreds of hours of work and an incredible level of care and attention have gone into restoring this beautiful car, with over 30 hours spent on preparation of the bonnet panel alone.

“I am truly delighted to see her arrive safely at Aerospace Bristol and very much look forward to seeing this wonderful vehicle on public display alongside other remarkable examples of Bristol engineering.”