Footnotes

• Looking much like its TA14 predecessor but featuring independent front suspension and a new, overhead-valve, six-cylinder engine, the 3.0-litre Alvis - type TA21 - was announced in 1950. Styled along classical, pre-war lines, the 3.0-Litre was reckoned by Autocar magazine to appeal to 'discerning owners who appreciate quality and good handling as well as mere performance.' Not that the TA21 was lacking in the latter, comfortable cruising at 70mph and a maximum speed of better than 85mph being reported.
  Additions to the range were not long in coming, a sports two-seater and a Tickford-bodied two-door drophead coupé being announced for the 1951 season. The introduction of open-top models was calculated to boost sales in the all-important United States market, where Alvis was beginning to make an impact. Testing a Drophead Coupé for Auto Age magazine found that they liked the newcomer from England. 'In many respects the Alvis is in a class by itself. It is of conservative design; it is a family-sized car; it is of relatively high power, yet the weight is lower than might be expected. Perhaps the best thing about it is that many of the handling characteristics of the sportscar have been built into the chassis which, combined with a low centre of gravity and a reasonable amount of space, make this fine car something of a compromise suited to those who want both family car and sportscar features all in one package.'
  This Tickford-bodied TA21 drophead coupé is presented in excellent restored condition, its partial restoration having been carried out by Rod Jolley. There are bills on file for well over £27,000 worth of work done to the car between 1999 and 2005, which included an engine rebuild; front suspension rebuild; rear axle rebuild; carburettor overhaul and a new gearbox (by Sigma Engineering in Dorset); full re-chroming (by Rod Jolley); a new exhaust system; and full re-spray by a company in New Zealand. Also included in the accompanying history file is a Shell lubrication service book; wiring diagram; instruction manual; spare parts list; 'The Red Triangle Catalogue'; old-style logbook; three expired MoTs; expired tax disc (2009); old-style Swansea V5; (copy) Swansea V5C stating two previous owners; and MoT to March 2012 (issued at 42,593 miles). It should be noted that the engine is believed to be from an Alvis TD21.

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Category: Motoring / Motor Cars

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