Alvis TJ 12/50

That Alvis became known as a Sports Car was more by accident than intent. Their first car, the 10/30 was a conventional light car of the period made in very limited numbers. By 1921 the bore had been increased, giving a capacity of 1598cc and 40bhp in the 11/40, after which the inevitable over-head valve version was introduced in 1923 as the immortal 12/50. This car was to build the reputation of the firm for extreme reliability, performance far beyond what would be expected of a 50bhp car (thanks to its light weight), quality construction and a feeling of “oneness” way in excess of the sum of its parts. Clutton and Stanford in their classic “The Vintage Motor Car” said of the 12/50 “We cannot but consider it one of the classic designs of the time, and it remains of all Vintage sports cars the one which needs the least apology”. 

The 12/50 Alvis developed through a number of series, each one carrying a range of attractive coachwork. The most famous of course are the “Ducksback” and later the “Beetleback” 3-seaters, but for those requiring more space, Cross and Ellis produced a most elegant 4-seat tourer with a stout bulkhead behind the front seats, no doubt the quality coachwork contributing to their sporty reputation.

By 1927 Alvis had decided on a small capacity 6-cylinder as the replacement for the 12/50 and the 1870cc 14.75hp was introduced. This car sold quite well, was fast and refined, however the depression bought about the need for a cheaper car so Alvis re-introduced the 12/50 in late 1930, known as the revival cars. These revival TJ and TL 12/50 models featured a harmonic balancer on the crankshaft, coil ignition, lower springs and a significantly taller radiator making for a taller bonnet and bodywork. Otherwise they were very much the same car and were a welcome addition to the range.

This TJ 12/50 started life with a fawn coloured Cross and Ellis 2-seater body with red wire wheels and red leather. Delivered to its first owner, a Mr. Frank Wood of Birmingham, it was despatched from the Coventry works on 3rd July 1931 to Frank Hallan, the Birmingham Alvis agent. Nothing is known of its subsequent history until it turned up in Helensburgh, however it had been converted into a special and partly restored when it came into the hands of the current vendor in the late ‘90s.

As there was no real bodywork to speak of, the vendor decided to restore the car with the looks of the earlier TG model with its shorter radiator and more elegant lines. The work was entrusted to well known Alvis exponent Ian Harris, who undertook a thorough chassis overhaul including suspension and brakes. New white metaling and a crank re-grind was done by Cotswold Engineering, the 1645cc engine having a big port head fitted. A new manifold and stainless exhaust were also fitted and the Marles steering box was rebuilt (a must on a 12/50 of this period).

The bodywork was replaced with a Phil Kneller Cross and Ellis replica, the trim being undertaken by Anne Taylor which includes dark blue leather upholstery, a tonneau cover and a full hood and sidescreens. The instruments are correct for the period and the car has its correct Hare mascot.

Since completion the car has been used sparingly, has always performed reliably and goes just as a good 12/50 should. With genuine TG 12/50s changing hands for £50,000 plus, this well sorted TJ with its earlier styling looks like a superb way of getting the most desirable Alvis 4-seater, with full weather equipment, ready for action at an affordable price.