Lot 437: 1937 Alvis Speed 25 Type SB

The Alvis 3 litre was announced in October 1935 and formed the basis of the company's finest two cars, the Speed 25 and 4.3 litre. The Speed 25's engine was a 3571 c.c. straight six unit with a bore and stroke of 83 mm. x 110 mm. which produced 106 b.h.p. at 3800 r.p.m. The first two people to road test the new car were Captain Sir Malcolm Campbell and T. H. Wisdom, both of whom lavished praise upon it, Wisdom commenting, 'My opinion of the machine is that it is in the true traditions of the manufacturers, a firm with a successful history of motor racing, and builders of some of the fastest, well-engineered sports cars ever produced.'This is a late SB model, first registered on the 23rd December, 1937, which was originally said to have been used as a works demonstrator. During which, it was significantly upgraded by the works with an SC specification cylinder head, twin manifolds and vacuum assisted drum brakes. Released to London agent, Charles Follett in March of 1938, it then found its way to Lancashire via owners in Scotland and Yorkshire before 'retiring' in 1961. In 1972, the current owner's father rescued the car from a scrapyard and immediately began work on a restoration which lasted until 1995. During this time the car was re-bodied from its original poor condition Charlsworth saloon body with a well built Vanden Plas style tourer, although it still remains largely authentic: wings, running boards, bonnet, brightwork, dashboard, engine, running gear and chassis are all original. The car has recently benefited from a brake overhaul, refurbished radiator and new starter ring. Described as being in excellent condition by the vendor and complemented by a disappearing hood, the car is supplied with V5 registration document, MoT until November 2006, Road Fund License until June 2006 and a comprehensive history from 1972 including bills for restoration, servicing and various parts.