Alvis TA21 Special

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Better known simply as the Three Litre, the Alvis TA21 was launched in 1950 as the successor to the TA14 and was the company’s first all-new post-war car, being available as a Mulliner-bodied saloon or a Tickford DHC.

More streamlined than its predecessor, it was also wider and longer with a stiffer chassis and considerably more power from an all-new 2,993cc six-cylinder engine. Other improvements included Lockheed hydraulic brakes and independent front suspension with coil springs and adjustable Luvax hydraulic dampers.

Beautifully trimmed inside in the finest Alvis tradition, the accent was on luxury and refinement rather than all-out performance. Great pains were taken to ensure that the engine was as smooth and flexible as possible, with a seven-bearing crankshaft and minutely calculated cam profiles that took weeks to perfect. To prevent any chatter from the valve gear, each pushrod had its own small spring to keep it in constant contact with the rocker, one of numerous ingenious touches to enhance quiet running.

Initially rated at 86bhp with a single Solex carb, the power output soon rose to 93bhp with the adoption of twin SU carbs, raising the top speed to very nearly 100mph. So successful was this engine that it was to power all subsequent Alvis models until they ceased production in 1967, reaching its zenith in the 150bhp TF21 of 1966. The TA21 was itself replaced by the TC21 in 1953 after 1,313 examples had been sold.

This striking TA21 started out in life as a saloon in 1952 but was the subject of complete restoration and the fitment of a bespoke new body in the early 1980s. The restoration included a full mechanical rebuild, the whole process being recorded in an album of photographs which show the expertise employed to create the stunning two-seater open touring body. Although the original boot lid has been retained, the rest of the body is bespoke, with a beautifully louvred aluminium bonnet, a steel body and a swooping boat-tail formed over a steel spaceframe structure.

Finally finished and back on the road in August 1984, it was re-registered as DSV 849 and comes with a good file of invoices to document subsequent upkeep, the original buff logbook and 11 old MOTs. The current owner, an Alvis enthusiast and precision engineer, has enjoyed the car for fast, effortless, open top touring since 2006, the V5C recording only four previous owners.

The car is presented in fine overall condition with gleaming chromework, distinctive Alvis eagle radiator mascot, a nicely mellowed grey leather interior, polished walnut dash and a very clean and tidy engine fitted with twin carburettors. A hood and side screens are also present for snug, year-round motoring.

Beautifully built and totally unique, this smooth and powerful tourer will prove a great talking point at any vintage event and will turn heads wherever it goes.