1934 Alvis Silver Eagle SF 16.95 Saloon

Lot details
Registration No: BHT 517
Chassis No: 11761
Mot Expiry: Mar 2007

Introduced in 1934, the Alvis Silver Eagle SF 16.95 shared a number of design features with the marque's legendary Speed 20 SA model. Based - like its illustrious sibling - around a double-dropped ladder-frame chassis equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension and fourteen-inch cable-operated drum brakes, it was powered by a smaller capacity version (2148cc vs. 2511cc) of the same triple SU carburettor fed OHV straight-six engine. Employing a shorter wheelbase than its sportier forebear, the Silver Eagle SF had the further advantage of an all synchromesh four-speed manual gearbox. Available with a choice of open or closed coachwork by the likes of Cross & Ellis and Holbrook, the Silver Eagle SF was a strong yet refined performer in the best traditions of the Coventry manufacturer.
Finished in black over ivory with brown / beige leather upholstery, this particular example has reportedly been "in the current ownership for twenty-six years (and was collected from Surrendell Farm, one time hide-away of Roddy Llewellyn and a royal personage!)". The subject of a "protracted but thorough rebuild to its present condition", the Alvis is further stated to be a numbers matching car. Retaining its original registration number, engine and body (Cross & Ellis No.4052), it has been upgraded with a 12volt battery, carburettor heat shield, SU electric fuel pump, winking indicators and modern temperature gauge. Benefiting from re-metalled bearings, dynamically balanced crankshaft / flywheel assembly, refurbished timing chain tensioner, rejuvenated oil pump and P.D. Gough stainless steel exhaust system, the engine apparently "runs a little noisily" but "holds good oil pressure". With its ash support frame partially replaced, the four-door saloon was treated to new aluminium wings and steel running boards before being professionally painted. The recipient of a new vinyl roof (complete with padding) as well as fresh plywood inner door skins, carpets and headlining, 'BHT 517' pleasingly retains its original (albeit suitably renovated) leather upholstery and wood trim. Reputedly totally rewired (including a reconditioned starter motor), the Silver Eagle is said to have been "recently returned to the road after several years storage" and thus to have only covered "approximately 800 miles since restoration was completed". Running on unleaded with the help of a suitable additive (though, sadly its "non-electric fuel gauge is inoperative at present"), this well-proportioned Alvis Sports Saloon is offered for sale with MOT certificate and historic class (free) road tax valid until March 2007.