[lansdownplace]

It would be an interesting proposition to offer to prospective
Bristol Buyers the option of commissioning a design from someone
such as yourself to be be built on the Blenheim running gear as with
the Zagato's.

Effectively Richards new Blenheim 4 is a completely new body on the
chassis. I have had the opportunity to examine it at length, and
every single panel apart from the grill unit is substantially
different. The top of the rear roof is pulled in by almost four
inches for example, which impacts on the rear quaterlights, the
interior, the rear seats, rear window to name but a few of the
considerations incurred by the changes. A radical departure would
not necessarily be more expensive, although the buyer of any special
will need very deep pockets indeed.

I like the 412, and I have just had mine completely rebuilt at the
factory to better than original spec which I am delighted with. I have
been pondering what I would like next, and lottery or lifting of the
recession permitting, a modern interpretation of a 412 would fit the
bill for me. Perhaps a lowered roof, wider more aggressive rear and
the introduction of a little more flow to the sides. There is no
reason why one couldn't be built, the quality of the design and the
design drawing precision on the interaction of the panels with the
chassis frame, windows, gaskets and interiors are the things that
would reduce the build cost by allowing it to be right first(ish) time.

It would be an interesting business for a designer to set up,
designing one off cars for clients and commissioned from Bristol.
There are probably enough people out there who would pay a premium for
such a service.

regards

Paul