BRISTOL Blenheim II 1998-1999 Photos, engines & full specs

Bristol introduced the Blenheim II in 1998 as an improved version of the 603 model, which was initially launched in 1976.

At first sight, there were no significant changes for the elegant British grand tourer. And yet, some significant improvements were under the hand-crafter aluminum skin of the car. Also, the exterior was subtly revised, and the vehicle finally received a better transmission.

Keeping the same three-box sedan shape for the Blenheim was not a problem for the British carmaker. Yet, the nose and the rear end of the car were slightly reshaped for a sleeker look. At the front, the former VW Scirocco headlights were replaced with a pair of two round headlamps, and the grille was adorned with a body-colored rim. Yet, the aluminum panels were still made by hand, and the spare wheel was still placed in a compartment behind the left front fender.

The interior was still luxurious, boasting a combination of leather and wood materials, but the dashboard's design was new. Bristol also said that the car could carry four passengers comfortably and that there was enough legroom for rear passengers.

Under the skin, there were more modifications. The car's track was widened, and the suspension was reworked, reducing the turning radius by two feet (0.6 m). Moreover, the 5.9-liter V8 engine was more potent than the formerly used 5.2-liter powerplant and more fuel-efficient thanks to the new four-speed automatic transmission. Unfortunately, in an era of unibody vehicles, the Blenheim 2 still relied on a body-on-frame construction.