1958 / 50 FPF AC Ace Bristol - SOLD

 '50 FPF' was campaigned in period by it's first owner, Eddie Searle, and featured on the April 1959 Autosport front cover.  A very well-known car to the AC Owner's Club, it features in the 'Ace Bristol Racing' book and won three races at Silverstone in 1958 and 1959.
 A journalist in the May 1959 edition of Autosport Magazine, reporting from the Silverstone 200 mile meeting, stated: "So far as the leader went the issue was never in doubt, for E.Searle's Ace-Bristol took the lead in the first lap, drew steadily away from the field to the tune of eight seconds by lap three and thereafter motored home in almost leisurely manner".  '50 FPF' also took part in the May 1958 Scottish Rally, 1958 Brighton Speed Trials, 1959 Taunton Autocross, a meeting at Goodwood (where unfortunately the car did not start) and many other club events.

In 1973, the car was bought by Michael Doland and a three year restoration was commissioned with an engine rebuild by Ken Rogers.  Mr Doland used the car on the road until it was sold to Hexagon BMW owner and well-known collector, Paul Michaels, in 1986.  An extensive body, drivetrain and suspension restoration was started with the coachwork taken back to bare aluminium and finished in dark blue.  Photographs and invoices from Hexagon detailing the restoration can be found within the history file.

  In 1993, '50 FPF' was bought by Cecil Hendy who owned the Ace until it's current owner bought it ten years later in 2003.  Numerous works have been carried out since, including an engine rebuild and new exhaust system by Ian Nuthall in 2004.  Since its mechanical recommissioning, '50 FPF' has been enjoyed on the road but could easily be brought back to relive its glorious competition history.

Having featured in a number of prominent collections through the years, this highly original Ace is presented in very good order.  The paintwork shows only minor isolated blemishes and the interior is trimmed in turquoise leather which appears pleasantly patinated.  However, the overall condition of the car is in-keeping with the previous owner's demand for a useable Ace-Bristol that, although not in concours condition, is mechanically sorted and boasts a fascinating history from new.

Come and drive an important part of history that will give pleasure and pride of ownership, in addition to access to all major historic events worldwide.