Lot 022: 1938 ALVIS SPEED 25 CHARLESWORTH SALOON

"What places the Alvis in a class by itself is the fact that these same characteristics of resounding acceleration and handling have been combined with a high degree of silence, flexibility and ease of control" (Speed 25 SC Road Test, 'The Motor' 1938) Launched in 1938, the Alvis Speed 25 SC was designed to take advantage of Britain's rapidly improving road network. Marrying sports car like performance to limousine-esque refinement, its sophisticated chassis layout incorporated independent transverse-leaf front suspension, a four-speed all synchromesh gearbox, adjustable Luvax hydraulic shock absorbers, one-shot chassis lubrication system and vacuum-assisted drum brakes. Featuring a massive seven-bearing crankshaft and novel spring-cluster overhead valve gear, its triple SU carburettor fed 3571cc straight-six engine was quoted as developing 108bhp @ 3,800rpm. A notably smooth and flexible unit, it endowed the model with near 100mph performance. Principally bodied by Charlesworth (Sports Saloon / Drophead Coupe) or Cross & Ellis (Tourer), the Speed 25 SC stole sales from both the Bentley 4.25 litre and Lagonda LG6 alike. Despite the fact that the Charlesworth Sports Saloon was the most popular Speed 25 SC variant in period survivors are comparatively few and far between today. More expensive to restore and traditionally less valuable than their open counterparts, closed cars have all too often been subject to cannibalisation or the scrapyard. However, the past few years have seen the market develop a growing respect for enclosed coachwork because it (a) has a real rarity / interest value and (b) offers greater all round usability / practicality (an important consideration given the seemingly increasing inclemency of the British weather). Finished in maroon metallic red with light grey leather upholstery, this particular Speed 25 SC Charlesworth Sports Saloon is described by the vendor as being in "concours condition" with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Known as the "Lady in Red", 'EKF 769' has been in the current family ownership since 1989. The subject of an extensive and highly detailed restoration by world renowned marque specialists Red Triangle, it is quite simply the finest Speed 25 that we have encountered. In the words of its late owner Bryan Williams, "The Lady is ready to go to the ball" but is "only for the eyes of the discerning". A magnificent Alvis worthy of any collection, 'EKF 769' is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until February 8th 2007.