Did Bristols modify the Torqueflight

[Kevin H]

Originally Posted by peter dowdle

I refer you to a post started by Paul Robert on 1/5/20 about 3 to 2 part throttle kick down. The modification apparently made by Bristol on later 411 and 412s was to delete this kickdown as being inappropriate for a refined touring car. I first saw mention of this in a 1975 Motor magazine. The Roberts post clearly covers the issues. My 411 didnt have kick down from new but when added vastly improved the drivability of the car.

Here's a link to the post torqueflite part throttle kick down - Bristol Cars - Owners and Enthusiasts Forum

Paul Robert concluded that Bristol didn't delete anything. It was just that the transmissions used by Bristol didn't have the 3rd to 2nd gear part throttle kickdown in the first place.

If this is correct and Bristol said that they deleted/disabled that function, then it may have been a bit of clever marketing to cover up the fact that they were using older transmissions.