1954 Arnolt-Bristol DeLuxe Convertible in Saint Louis, Missouri

In the years following World War II, a wave of entrepreneurial ambition swept through the American automotive landscape. Few figures embodied that spirit more fully than Stanley H. "Wacky" Arnolt-a midwestern industrialist with a sharp business mind, a passion for European cars, and a knack for spotting opportunity. What began as a thriving marine engine business soon evolved into a successful enterprise importing European automobiles. Arnolt represented brands like MG, Aston Martin, and Bristol in the U.S., but his ambition went further: to build a car of his own-one that combined proven mechanicals, Italian style, and American market appeal.
After an early collaboration with MG and Bertone faltered, Arnolt pivoted quickly, securing a supply of chassis and engines from Bristol and once again turning to Nuccio Bertone to supply the coachwork. The chassis came from Bristol's 404 model, and the powertrain featured the BMW-derived 2.0-liter inline-six, renowned for its robust construction and high-revving nature. The design brief fell to Bertone's newly hired stylist, Franco Scaglione, whose solutions for the car's proportions and packaging would go on to influence a generation of automotive design. The result was a lean, purposeful sports car-one that found success both in American road racing and among buyers seeking something a little more exotic than the typical British roadster.
The car offered here represents not only a striking example of the marque, but also one with known provenance and impressive originality. The earliest known history of chassis 404X3085 begins in the 1960s when Hank Emory, from Peoria, Illinois, purchased the car to reportedly use as his delivery vehicle on his postal route (!), most definitely shortening the time spent delivering mail! Later in the 1970s the car changed hands after Emory relocated to Oregon when it was acquired by Jim McQuay. He retained the car for around thirty years, importantly never restoring it, but rather enjoying and preserving the Arnolt.
In 2008, 3085 was bought by a dedicated enthusiast who embarked on a sensible restoration, meticulously stripping the car down and cataloging each component. Parts were outsourced to Pacific Coast Powder Coating, a significant shop whose clientele include Singer Vehicle Design, for media blasting and refinishing. An Arnolt restoration expert performed minor metalwork repairs on the nose, while Concours Restoration in Valencia, CA was tasked with final fitment and paint, ensuring every panel was correctly aligned and finished. Finally, the heart of the Arnolt, the Bristol six-cylinder, was rebuilt by the renowned Valley Head Service. The result is a beautifully restored Arnolt-Bristol whose restoration quality remains highly evident today.
Finished in black with a white center stripe, the exterior remains highly preserved from its expert restoration. The inviting tan interior is supple and supportive, and the matching tan convertible top remains in good order. The mechanical fitness of the matching-numbers motor is strong as well, offering its next owner the ability to display at concours or compete in road rallies such as the Mille Miglia or Colorado Grand.
Combining documented provenance, a high-quality restoration, matching-numbers drivetrain, and excellent driving character, chassis 3085 represents a compelling example of the charismatic Arnolt-Bristol. Equally suited for concours presentation or vintage touring events, it offers a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most distinctive Anglo-Italian-American sports cars of the postwar era.


Offers welcome and trades considered.