This post presents side views of nearly all Bristol models based on that wheelbase. Future posts might deal with other styling features.
The original Bristol's design was very mid-to-late 1930s. The shape of the passenger compartment greenhouse is similar to that of many American coupés from that period. So is the exposed running board. The spare tire sits atop the trunk lid.
All that changed after Italian Carrozzeria Touring produced its classic design for Bristol that I discussed here. When I think of Bristols, this is the design that usually comes to mind.
The next model retained the same design.
The 405s from 1954-1958 were unusual due to being four-door sedans (saloons) rather than coupés. The wheelbase was the same as before, while the design was entirely new. Behind the front wheel opening is a panel that opens upward, hinged at the fender chrome strip. This feature, housing a spare tire (on the left side, battery access on the right side), was retained in subsequent models pictured below.
It seems that some of the frontal structure of the 405 was retained on the 406. The design is the "three box" variety common until aerodynamic efficiency became important in the 1980s.
The main difference here is a longer chrome strip.
New fender chrome strip design with a wider strip along the lower part of the side.
1969c. Bristol 410 - photo via Car and Classic
There was a Bristol 409 model, but it looked nearly the same as the 408. This was the model seen in many episodes to the British television series "The Inspector Linley Mysteries." Again, the main difference is the chrome trim.
There was a Bristol 409 model, but it looked nearly the same as the 408. This was the model seen in many episodes to the British television series "The Inspector Linley Mysteries." Again, the main difference is the chrome trim.
Now the chrome is a wide strip aligned with the front and rear bumpers. It's difficult to see here, but the hinge line of the spare tire panel is visible, not disguised.
1976 saw the introduction of a new design, yet again on the traditional wheelbase. The passenger compartment greenhouse extends farther forward and the windshield rake is increased. A slight slope to the rear contributes to a less-boxy appearance. The tire panel hinge line adjoins the side sculpting.
The rear is more boxy, adding a little more trunk space.
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