1932 Alvis 12/50 TJ Atlantic Saloon

Lot details
Registration No: XJ 2151
Chassis No: 9771
Mot Expiry: July 2019

- A highly presentable and usable Post-Vintage Thoroughbred that has benefited from much recent cosmetic and mechanical attention

- Known to the Alvis Register and in single family ownership from 1971-2018

- Carbodies coachwork, Green leather upholstery, correct-type but earlier (Vintage) engine, Rotax headlights


Introduced in August 1923, the 12/50 was responsible for placing Alvis firmly on the motor manufacturers' map. Relentlessly honed by chief engineer Capt. G.T. Smith Clarke, it went on to become one of the quintessential Vintage sports cars offering quite exceptional roadholding and performance for its class. Briefly discontinued in 1929 when Alvis placed all its eggs in the front-wheel drive basket (FWD FA - 8/15 models), it was hurriedly reintroduced during September 1930 and is widely credited with saving the marque. Built around a super-strong 9ft 4.5in wheelbase platform chassis frame, the 12/50 TJ featured all round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, cable-operated drum brakes and a high-geared steering box. Powered by a torquey, free-revving 1645cc OHV four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed (right-hand change) crash gearbox most variants were capable of some 75 - 80 mph. Rugged, versatile and brimful of character, the 12/50 enjoys a special place in many enthusiasts' hearts.

Beginning life as a Carbodies Atlantic Saloon, chassis 9771 was first registered by Manchester Council on 29th July 1932. Little is known about the Alvis's early history but an accompanying green logbook shows that it was briefly reconfigured as an Open Tourer during the 1960s. Acquired by Michael Jacklin Esq. of Louth in June 1971 - by which time it sported Atlantic Saloon coachwork once more - the 12/50 was to remain in his family until February 2018 when it entered the current ownership. A marque enthusiast, the vendor treated 'XJ 2151' to a bare metal respray, stainless steel exhaust, rewiring, rejuvenated ignition system, fresh carpets and new rear springs so as to make it an 'extremely smart and very usable Post-Vintage Thoroughbred Saloon'. Only being offered for sale due to the recent purchase of his father's old Riley, this handsome Alvis comes with a history file and current MOT certificate.