A sensation when first shown at the Earls Court Motor Show in 1948, the streamlined TB14 sportscar was an unlikely stablemate for the sober and conventional TA14 saloon on which it was based. Alvis' contract with coachbuilder A P Metalcraft called for an initial run of 100 cars, and in the event this was all that was ever made, the Jaguar XK120's simultaneous arrival on the home market at a slightly lower price rendering the TB14 un-competitive overnight.
This example of one of the rarest of post-war Alvis models was acquired by its late owner at Bonhams' Goodwood Revival Sale in September 2002. The previous (lady) owner - a long-standing member of the Alvis Owners Club - had acquired the car in 1990, it having been in the immediately preceding owner's possession since c.1971. Restored in the 1980s, the car was maintained by Alvis specialists Walker's Radiators while in the previous ownership, covering some 10,000-or-so miles in this period as confirmed by accompanying expired MoTs. The car was completely re-wired with a new loom in 1998, at which time indicator lights were fitted to the rear bumper and the front sidelights modified to provide flashing indication. In addition, a lifetime-guaranteed stainless-steel exhaust system and five new Firestone whitewall tyres have been fitted. For many years 'GWM 437' has been entered in the AOC's Masterclass concours, winning the Post-War Convertible section at the International Alvis Day in 1992. Finished in red with cream hood and red/ivory interior, the latter retaining its original heater and radio, the car is described as in excellent condition and comes with an extensive history file containing sales brochures, assorted concours trophies, leather-bound notebook (unused), old-style logbook and Swansea V5. The vehicle will have been MoT'd prior to sale. A spare gearbox is also available for collection from the vendor’s estate.