411 (Series 3-5) Exhaust Tailpipes

[Rubbond]

As a child I flew regularly from Hurn airport to Cherbourg in a Bristol (3
cars and 12 passengers).
I'm sure however you couldn't open the windows!
The stories about their cars are getting weirder and weirder!
Andrew Knox.

[David Olivant]

I remember many years ago ownning a Hillman Imp with an openong rear
window. The handbook stated that under no circumstances was the car to be
driven with this window open, as exhaust fumes would be sucked into the
car.
Regards,
David

[Hydroglen]

The issue of fumes varies from car to car. It depends largely on the roof
line and design of the trunk (boot) and the angle of the exhaust pipe.
But why would Hillman go to the expense of fitting an opening window, and
then tell you not to open it? Maybe it was for necking couples, who having
parked in a secluded lay-by, wanted to avoid steaming up the windows!
Dorien

[David Olivant]

Necking couples! Have you ever been in a Hillman Imp?
David

[Hydroglen]

Seen one once....well it's the only reason I could think of, for a window
that can be used ONLY when parked!
Dorien

[Kevin H]

Here in Australia the earlier iconic Holden "panel van", loved by surfies and tradies, used to have a large window which hinged up from the roof at the back. I'm sure this was intended only for use when parked but it was common to see people driving around with it open on a hot day.

Of course being a van with only front seats it was much more practical for amorous activities as well. Surfies would often have a mattress in the back!

It looks like Holden might be planning to make them again http://www.holden.com.au/concept-cars/sandman-panel-van-

Back to John's problem. The cheapest and quickest solution to the exhaust stains has to be aftermarket exhaust tips that point downwards. But I suspect there's also a leak into the cabin from either the front or rear of the car.

[Nick Challacombe]

Kevin Howard wrote " The cheapest and quickest solution - has to be after
market
exhast tips that point downwards."

Just like the 407, the first use of a V8 in a Bristol.
Makes me think that the problem was always there and
an effective solution found. The 407 handbook advises
that the rear windows should be left open when driving
to facilitate the movement of air in the cockpit.