Arnolt-Bristol Bolide (1953)Charles from Port Chester, New York, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Arnolt-Bristol Bolide

1953 — USA

Post-War (1946-1959)American1950s Americana
Engine1,971 cc
DrivetrainRWD

Arnolt-Bristol Bolide

Chicago industrialist Stanley 'Wacky' Arnolt created this unique hybrid by ordering Bristol chassis, having them bodied by Bertone in Italy, then selling them through his dealership network. The Bristol inline-six provided sophisticated performance while Bertone's elegant aluminum coachwork kept weight minimal. Success in SCCA racing and at Sebring proved the concept, and the cars earned respect from serious enthusiasts. Only 142 were built across all body styles, with the Bolide roadster being the most desirable. The combination of British engineering, Italian styling, and American marketing created something truly unique.