1931 | Alvis 12/50 TJ

The 12/50 Alvis boosted the Alvis range’s reputation for reliable, straightforward cars, which gave long periods of trouble-free service. This particular car started life in London during 1931 as a saloon. It lasted well through the 1950s but was taken off the road in 1960, for a ground-up restoration. All parts were removed, boxed, and refurbished except for the saloon body, which was scrapped in 1970, believed to be beyond economic repair.

Over time the Saloon body was replaced with a sports ‘duck tail' body, also known as ‘Beetle Back.' The body tapers from capacious cabin, with two newly retrimmed vinyl seats, matching new vinyl door cards, capped with wood, and topped with a brand-new canopy, to a squared off tail containing a compartment for the battery and service equipment. The cabin features a polished mahogany dashboard.The body was beautifully constructed over a new ash frame, with new marine ply floors and coach-painted in maroon, with black wings over newly reconstructed wheels and new tyres.

Mechanically the Alvis engine is very strong indicating seven thousand miles, with new stainless exhaust and a rebuilt gearbox and rear axle. Electrically everything is straightforward, fitted with modern but well integrated indicators. It rides and handles in an exemplary fashion and is an ideal straightforward doorway into the VSCC and its events.There will be little to do with this car other than to continue a gentle running in and enjoy its reliable sporting nature.