Lot 117: Alvis TD21 DHC

Originally designed by Swiss coacbuilder Hermann Graber and shown at the 1955 Paris Motor Show, the TD to TF Alvis was a handsome motor car. By 1957 Alvis had agreed terms to licence production in the UK and gave the contract to Willowbrook. When the early Willowbrook bodies gave trouble, production was moved to Mulliner Parkward. The MPW bodies were far more successful giving more rear legroom, more headroom and a more traditional dash board. The rear glass area was redesigned, neater bumpers fitted and a few other cosmetic changes were made. MPW also introduced a convertible version, which is what is offered here.This 1960 TD21 Drophead Coupe last changed hands in 1989. Since then, it has undergone much improvement, including much work by Red Triangle in the 1990's. Having been used reasonably regularly, the car was treated to a new interior and new hood, it was also colour changed to OEW. However, in August 2006 the car was given a bit of an overhaul, receiving new exhaust front pipes, re-machined exhaust manifolds, exhaust manifold gaskets (Red Triangle) and a good servicing. The car was then sent to the body-shop for a full repaint in the original Opalescent Metallic blue. This involved stripping the car down, screen out, doors off, bonnet off, boot off and all brightwork removed. The alloy skinned doors were removed and adjusted, the hood treated with Renova and many other small items attended to. The result is a very attractive and sound Alvis drophead, which offers outstanding value.Equipped with the 2993cc, straight six engine, three speed automatic transmission, wire wheels, light blue carpets, cream leather and a navy hood. The car is offered complete with an extensive history file, current MoT, historic tax, many copies of the Alvis Owner Club magazine and a Red Triangle parts catalogue.With Concours examples fetching £50,000-60,000, this eminently usable, 46 year old, very attractive, four-seater convertible offers outstanding value for money and is complete with the valuable, single letter registration, with an offer to buy it outright for £1080.