Lot 1009: 1960 Alvis TD21 Drophead Coupé

The first production Alvis to be styled by Swiss Carrozzeria Graber appeared at the Paris Motor Show in October 1955. Based on the existing TC21 Grey Lady chassis, the newcomer brought a much-needed injection of Continental style and modernity to the Coventry manufacturer’s range. Lighter, stiffer and with a much smaller frontal area than the traditionally styled Grey Lady, the Graber Alvis enjoyed much improved handling and a higher maximum speed in excess of 100mph. The first Graber-styled model - the TC108G - was built by coachbuilders Willowbrook, before production switched to Rolls-Royce’s in-house coachbuilder Park Ward on the introduction of the re-styled TD21 for 1959. The TD21 retained Alvis’s torquey, 3-liter, overhead-valve six, which in up-rated form now came with 120bhp courtesy of a redesigned cylinder head. Inside, there were improvements to the accommodation, with increased headroom and legroom, especially in the rear. Lockheed servo-assisted disc brakes were an option, becoming standardised for 1960. The Motor magazine summed up the TD21 thus: “As a perfectly serviceable everyday car with extra ‘chic’, extra performance, and high standards of comfort and safety, its appeal to a select but important clientele should be strong.”

This right-hand drive example was first owned (presumably in England) by one Michael Hamby and next by Stephen John Morris from August 1981, before coming into the current (third) owner’s possession in March 1986. Handsomely finished in dark green with cognac leather interior, the car was restored to original specification in 2004. This comprehensive rebuild included the engine, chassis, body, electrics, brakes, clutch and differential. The coachwork was repainted to a high standard, a new top fitted and the interior refurbished with new leather, new carpets and restored woodwork. The vehicle is offered with restoration invoices.