1949 Bristol 401

Putting right the 400’s main failing, its ungainly body, the 401 was introduced initially for export markets only. Its handsome styling was the result of extensive wind tunnel work, after a basic design was submitted by Superleggera Touring. It was a design way ahead of its time, merely let down by a lack of power. This shortcoming was put right five years later, with the appearance of the 403 – and a welcome upgrade to 100bhp. Bristols were expensive and well crafted – the latter trait keeps them surprisingly usable today.

Information from Octane Magazine.