Fantasy Junction

Description

1959 Arnolt-Bristol DeLuxe Roadster
s/n 404/X/3100, engine BS II 210
Red with Grey Interior

The Arnolt Bristol was the result of American, Italian, and English collaboration. Mr. Arnolt was an eccentric American enthusiast, industrialist and businessman who, through his MG distributorship, struck a deal with Italian coachbuilder Bertone to build 200 special bodies for the MG TD chassis, creating the MG Arnolt. Half way through the run, MG stopped building the TD and to make good on his deal with Bertone, Mr. Arnolt sought a different chassis on which to put Bertone bodies. Eventually, he agreed with Bristol to use a shortened 404 chassis along with the ex-BMW Bristol inline-6, and a very swoopy and all new open body to create the Arnolt Bristol. Available in both stripped Bolide and more fully equipped Deluxe versions, the Arnolt Bristol was well-received, and met with much club success in SCCA venues. With enough examples built by 1955, the car was homologated as a limited series production sports car with the FIA, and Arnolt retained three cars to use as factory works racers. Arnolt Bristols raced extensively throughout the late 1950’s and early 60’s with considerable success. The factory team won their class at Sebring several times and Bobby Rahal’s father Mike Rahal also campaigned a team of three Arnolt Bristols.

This particular car is a nicely sorted example that has been enthusiastically owned and cared for. The owner began searching for an Arnolt Bristol because he had seen them race at Sebring in the 1950’s and 1960’s, and was impressed by their performance and unique styling. After purchasing the car, the owner immediately set about performing a comprehensive cleaning and adjustment program. He had the engine gaskets replaced, and had the gearbox and braking system rebuilt. While the cylinder head was off, he had a valve job done, and new sychronizers were installed in the gearbox, along with rebuilt main shaft and needle bearings. The carburetors were cleaned and adjusted, and the radiator was also rebuilt. The fuel tank was cleaned as well, the “one shot” lubrication system was rebuilt, and a new battery fitted. New tires were also fitted.

This car has the DeLuxe body, with the original seats, and is currently fitted with the racing windshield. The car comes with an original center post support (an unusual and rare part), and a full road going windshield and original side posts, as would have originally been specified on a DeLuxe. Also included is a set of racing side screens, another rare and unusual part. The car also comes with the original hubcaps and a number of other miscellaneous spare parts. The car also has a tonneau cover.

The car is in very nice cosmetic condition overall. The paintwork is attractive and glossy, though several years old by now. Close inspection reveals a few chips and blemishes, as well as some bubbling in the bottom of one of the doors. The lights, trim and glass, such as they are, are very nice, including the Lucas headlamps. The tires are nice Michelin X’s.

The interior is very nice, with excellent dash, instruments, and steering wheel. The switches are correct and in nice shape, and the carpets are in good shape, though not of the correct material. Safety belts have been added as well, and the trunk has been carpeted in matching material.

The engine is quite tidy and clean, and very original in appearance, from the Lucas fuse block to the cloth-wrapped wiring harness. Custom K&N filters have been fitted to the stock air filter housings to preserve the original appearance but improve performance.

The car runs and drives very well, reflecting the significant mechanical sorting that the car has received in the last 3 or 4 years. Consequently, this would make an excellent event car. It can compete with Ferraris and Maseratis of the same displacement and vintage for approximately a tenth of the price, and would be well suited to road or racing events. The car presents well cosmetically, and could certainly be enjoyed as is, or alternatively, it would be an excellent candidate for an all out restoration to the highest standards. The car has approximately ten binders containing various documents relating to the care and servicing of the car, including the operator’s manual.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608