Lot details
Registration No: YD 7867
Chassis No: 10778
Mot Expiry: Exempt

- One of two Cross & Ellis two-seaters with dickey

- Offered with comprehensive history file

- Extensively restored by Tim Walker during 1993 and 1994

The replacement for the Alvis 12/50 was delayed and it was not until 1932 that the Firefly finally made its debut. It was based on the Speed 20 SA double-drop chassis and powered by a four-cylinder OHV engine of 1496cc.

Many Alvises were clothed by Cross & Ellis and 'YD 7867' is one of only two similar, but unidentical, two-seater bodies with dickey they produced for the Firefly, making this a unique motorcar. It was delivered new to Windmill & Lewis of Bristol in September 1933 and allocated a Somerset County Council registration number. Thirty three years later it was exported to Washington State, USA and remained on that continent until repatriated in 1990. It was during 1993/1994 that the Firefly was treated to an extensive restoration by Tim Walker Restorations of Aylesbury. The majority of the work was mechanical and included a total overhaul of the engine. The previous keeper acquired the motorcar in 2009 but evidently subjected it to little use. The lady vendor purchased it in 2013 and for ease of driving replaced the crash gearbox with the synchromesh unit from a later Alvis - the original and associated parts have been retained.

Resplendent in White over Black paintwork with Tan leather interior, the Alvis is now considered by the vendor to have 'excellent' transmission, 'very good' bodywork and paintwork, and 'good' engine and original interior trim. It is being sold complete with: custom-made stainless steel exhaust; brand new tonneau cover; copies of the Firefly instruction book, build records and buff logbook; photos of the car in America and the gearbox installation; US certificate of title and UK customs paperwork; invoices and notes re the restoration; 1960s correspondence with Alvis; and a copy of Alvis 'Firefly Twelve'.