Vehicle Description
Started in 1917, Alvis began automobile production in 1920 and
continued into the early days of World War II, resuming production
in 1946. The first postwar Alvis had an overhead valve, 2993 cc
inline six-cylinder engine, independent front suspension (something
Alvis had pioneered in the early 1930s along with a fully
synchronized 4-speed gearbox) and hydraulic brakes. By 1958, the
series had developed into the TD21. An evolution of the TC108G, it
had bodywork based on a design by Graber in Switzerland but made by
Park Ward in England, 115 brake horsepower from the straight-six, a
four-speed gearbox borrowed from Austin-Healey, a front anti roll
bar and front disc brakes. Suspension, like previous Alvises, was
independent at the front with coil springs and a live rear axle
with leaf springs. A particularly elegant, luxurious and expensive
car, the Alvis was and still is a fine alternative to the Jaguars,
Daimlers, Rolls-Royces and Bentleys that are so popular with
enthusiasts. With just over 1,000 built, they are quite rare as
well. This 1961 Alvis TD21 is a very pretty example finished in
medium blue with a beige leather interior. It has chrome wire
wheels, blackwall radial tires, a beautiful walnut dashboard and
period correct AM radio. It spent some years in California after
being brought to the US in 1976, and wears a 2000 restoration that
included a repaint, chrome work and carpets. Included are receipts
and service records that date back to 1972. Overall, it is a highly
presentable automobile that is also mechanically sound and runs and
drives very well. A sorted, pretty and rare Alvis, it is a
fantastic car for long, pleasurable drives and to just have fun
with.