The Bristol 402 is a rare and striking open-top touring car that stands out as one of the most distinctive and elegant post-war British automobiles. Introduced in 1949 and based on the earlier 401 saloon, the 402 was Bristol’s first true convertible model, built in extremely limited numbers—only 26 examples were produced—making it one of the most exclusive models in the company’s history.
Stylistically, the 402 shared much of its design language with the 401, featuring advanced aerodynamics inspired by Bristol’s aviation background. However, the 402’s body was reworked to accommodate a two-door drophead coupe configuration, resulting in a longer and more graceful silhouette. The clean lines, subtly integrated headlamps, and teardrop-shaped rear wings gave the car a timeless, flowing elegance that set it apart from its contemporaries. The convertible roof was carefully designed to fold neatly behind the rear seats, preserving the car’s proportions whether the top was up or down.
Under the bonnet, the Bristol 402 was powered by the same 2.0-litre, six-cylinder engine found in the 401. Based on the pre-war BMW 328 design, this engine was known for its smoothness and free-revving character, delivering around 85 bhp. Coupled with a four-speed manual gearbox, the 402 offered refined and surprisingly spirited performance for a grand touring convertible of its time.
The interior continued Bristol’s tradition of understated luxury. It featured high-quality materials, including leather upholstery, polished wood trim, and precise switchgear. The layout was driver-focused but retained an air of quiet sophistication, offering comfort for long-distance travel.
Due to its rarity, beauty, and craftsmanship, the Bristol 402 is now highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. It represents a unique chapter in Bristol’s history, embodying the post-war optimism and a commitment to combining performance, innovation, and timeless design.