1956 Arnolt-Bristol Bolide Roadster

This Arnolt-Bristol was purchased new by Charles W. 'Todd' Aikins Jr., of Wichita, Kansas. Mr. Aikins first raced the Arnolt-Bristol at Dodge City, Kansas, on April 28 and 29, 1956. In all, he competed in at least 16 SCCA races through 1959. By the mid-to-late 1950s, the car had been sold to a friend, Larry Schmidt. Schmidt had it only a short time when it suffered a ring-and-pinion failure. It was sold to George Massey, another racing colleague. Dan Lancaster of Longview, Texas, purchased the car in 1993. By this point in history, it was without its damaged engine. Unable to trace it or locate an authentic substitute, Lancaster installed a small block Chevrolet V-8 with dual quad carburetors. Under his ownership, the car received a fairly comprehensive restoration. The current caretaker continued the work, bringing it to its current, 'higher standard' condition. It has been painted in the original Rossa Corsa color using a single-stage process to match the period varnish and appearance. The engine is a correct 1956 Corvette unit with matching numbers, block, heads, carburetor, and manifolds. The transmission is original to the engine and is a four-speed T-10. All gauges are correct and original Arnolt-Bristol parts.

This car is one of only five Arnolt-Bristols originally fitted with Rudge knock-off wheels, although they are no longer with the car. Original Bristol steel wheels, caps, and center logos have been sourced and fitted. The brake drums are the original finned units. Michelin X tires, original equipment for the car, have also been sourced and mounted.

Including a few coupes, there were a total of 142 Arnolt-Bristols produced.

By Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2015