Description

The Bristol 405, introduced in 1954, marked a significant evolution in Bristol’s lineup, being the first model from the marque to offer a four-door configuration. Available as both a saloon and a rare drophead coupé, the 405 combined elegant coachwork, advanced engineering, and a unique blend of sporting performance and refined practicality. It stood apart not only within the Bristol range but also among its contemporaries, offering an understated yet distinctly individual take on the luxury touring car.

Design-wise, the 405 maintained the smooth, aerodynamic lines that Bristol had become known for, but adapted them to a more spacious, upright body. The four-door saloon featured a graceful roofline, flush-fitting headlights, and the trademark cowled front wings with concealed storage compartments. Despite being larger than its predecessor, the 405 managed to retain a sense of balance and proportion, with subtle detailing and clean surfaces that highlighted its aircraft-influenced design heritage.

Mechanically, the 405 was powered by Bristol’s well-proven 2.0-litre straight-six engine, derived from the pre-war BMW 328. Buyers could choose from multiple states of tune, with outputs ranging from around 105 to 125 bhp, depending on specification. The engine was mated to a four-speed manual gearbox with full synchromesh, delivering smooth and flexible performance well suited to long-distance touring. The car’s handling benefited from Bristol’s precise chassis engineering and independent front suspension, giving it a composed and confident character on the road.

Inside, the Bristol 405 offered a level of craftsmanship and comfort that was second to none. The cabin featured individually trimmed leather seats, finely finished wood veneers, and a clearly arranged dashboard with aircraft-style instrumentation. The four-door layout made rear-seat access more convenient, adding genuine practicality without compromising the car’s exclusive feel.

Only 308 examples of the 405 saloon were built, along with just 43 of the drophead coupé variant, making both versions rare and highly sought-after today. As the only four-door Bristol of the era and a bridge between the brand’s early post-war models and later, more powerful offerings, the 405 occupies a unique and important place in the company’s storied history.