2004 Bristol Speedster Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Bristol Speedster weighs in at 1395 kg (3074 lbs) curb weight, which is relatively light for a car with its luxury and design profile. This relatively low weight benefits performance by allowing the vehicle to accelerate faster and handle more responsively compared to heavier vehicles. The lighter curb weight, paired with appropriate suspension tuning, enhances driving dynamics and agility, making it a spirited and engaging cabriolet.

The Bristol Speedster is equipped with rims sized at 8.5J x 17 inches and rides on tires sized 255/55 R17. This tire size balances performance and comfort, ensuring good road contact and stability. The relatively wide 255 mm tires provide traction and grip, aiding in confident cornering and braking, while the 17-inch rims support the sporty stance and overall aesthetics of the car.

With a length of 4674 mm (184.0 inches), a width of 1752 mm (68.9 inches), and a height of only 1118 mm (44.0 inches), the Bristol Speedster will generally fit comfortably inside a standard residential garage, which is typically around 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 2.4 meters (8 feet) in width. Its low height also makes clearance easy. However, because the Speedster is quite long compared to common compact cars, owners should ensure their garage has sufficient length clearance and check that doors or other obstructions won’t impede entry or exit.

The Bristol Speedster of 2004 was essentially a bespoke continuation rather than a direct successor from a previous standard production model; however, compared to earlier Bristol models like the Bristol Fighter or Bristol Blenheim, the Speedster is notably lower and longer, emphasizing a more dramatic cabriolet sports aesthetic. It prioritizes sleekness and road presence over the more conservative sizes often associated with Bristol’s earlier saloons. This change in dimensions reflects a shift toward a more dynamic, open-top driving experience.

Compared to other luxury cabriolets produced in the early 2000s, the Bristol Speedster presents a unique profile: longer and lower than many contemporaries such as the Porsche Boxster or BMW Z4, but similar in width. While cars like the Porsche Boxster are shorter (around 4.35 meters/171 inches) and somewhat taller, the Bristol’s 4.67-meter length and very low height give it a distinctive road presence. Its size bridges grand tourers and sports cars, providing ample space and a very sleek silhouette that stands out against typical roadsters of the time.

Due to its notably low height of 1118 mm (44.0 inches), the Bristol Speedster’s cabin has a very low roofline, which creates a sporty, intimate atmosphere ideal for the cabriolet experience but may limit headroom, especially for taller passengers. The width of 1752 mm (68.9 inches) gives a cozy but comfortable two-seat arrangement. While the car is designed more for style and driving thrill than spaciousness, its width is sufficient for comfortable shoulder room, but overall head and legroom are more constrained than in larger luxury convertibles.

The very low height of 1118 mm (44.0 inches) contributes significantly to the Bristol Speedster’s sleek aerodynamic profile, reducing drag and supporting higher speeds with greater efficiency. This low silhouette helps lower the center of gravity, enhancing cornering stability and road holding. However, the low roofline can make ingress and egress slightly more challenging and reduce overall cabin versatility. The aerodynamic benefit and sporty aesthetic appeal are central to the car’s character as a performance-oriented cabriolet.

The Bristol Speedster differs markedly from typical British luxury cars with its ultra-low profile, elongated body, and cabriolet form, blending exclusivity with a sporty, retro-modern look. Unlike traditional Bristol sedans with more conservative proportions, the Speedster focuses on dynamic styling and driving excitement, reminiscent of classic roadsters but built with modern engineering. This makes it a collector’s piece with a strong visual impact, combining British craftsmanship with unique, eye-catching proportions and exceptional build quality.

Produced in limited numbers from 2003 to 2011, the Bristol Speedster is indeed a rare and highly collectible car. The exclusive production span of just eight years, combined with Bristol’s general low-volume manufacturing philosophy, makes the Speedster a sought-after model amongst enthusiasts of British luxury sports cars. Its rarity, unique design, and connection to Bristol’s heritage contribute to steadily appreciating value, especially as examples remain in good condition with original parts and limited mileage, ensuring interest in the collector and classic car markets.