Lot 076: 1937 ALVIS SPEED 25 SB SERIES 4 SEATER OPEN TOURER

A very late 'SB' model, this particular example was first registered on 23rd December 1937. Reportedly retained by the works for use as a demonstrator, they are also said to have upgraded it with a later 'SC' specification cylinder head, twin manifolds and vacuum assisted drum brakes. Released to London agent Charles Follett in March 1938, it migrated to Lancashire via owners in Scotland and Yorkshire before 'retiring' in 1961. Rescued from a scrap yard by the present owner's West Country-based father just over a decade later, it was subsequently treated to a meticulous twenty-three year restoration during which its decrepit Charlesworth saloon shell was replaced by a handsome two-door four-seat tourer body in the style of Vanden Plas. Modelled after the famous coachbuilder's design number '1460' (which never saw service on a Speed 25 but was reworked as design 1461 for the later Short-Chassis 4.3 Litre), the reborn CKV 868 nevertheless remains largely original retaining its factory-supplied wings, running boards, bonnet, brightwork, dashboard, engine, running gear and chassis. Finished in Old English White with black leather upholstery, it is described by the vendor as being in good (transmission, paintwork, wheels / tyres), very good (bodywork) or excellent (electrical equipment, chassis, interior trim) condition and he notes that the rebuilt engine "has plenty of power and does not overheat, developing around 25lb oil pressure at 2,500rpm when warm". Benefiting from a disappearing hood and integral moulded spare wheel cover, the last 1,000 miles have seen CKV 868 subjected to a brake overhaul (fresh cables, shoes, front drums), refurbished radiator and new starter ring. Riding on red painted wire wheels, this striking Alvis is offered for sale with MOT valid until November 2005, historic class (free) road tax until June 2006 and sundry paperwork dating back to the early 1970's including "a letter and drawing from Vanden Plas detailing design 1460". PLEASE NOTE: The estimate for this lot as it appears in the catalogue is incorrect. It should read ú40,000 - ú45,000