Perhaps a 405 prototype!

In this iteration, Bristol have contemplated their first, four door model, presumably the precursor of the 405. Its vertical rear window flanked by spectacular fins shows how  they addressed the rear end, perhaps consistent with current  streamlining principles and a compromise with Kamms cut-off tails.  And at the front, that tall long stroke engine is managed by a large radiator grill set back in the nose, allowing for a drooped snoot. Did this detail  evolve into the 404, 405’s elegant bonnet vent, much smaller and neater?

The model is 21″ (53.3 cm) long

Already a pressed tin bumper replaces the 403s massive impact absorbing bumper blades, mounted on forged, one piece, aluminium forgings at front and rear. Less elegant, probably less effective – and much cheaper. Personally I find the overall effect of this concept model is rather alarming. But it was just a conceptual stepping stone to another elegant, streamlined Bristol car. During the early 1950s Bristol were producing several different model lines at the same time and it was clearly a period of intense development, rapid evolution – and heavy investment in the most advanced concepts.

Stefan Cembrowicz