Lot details
Registration No: JF 5206
Chassis No: 10883
Mot Expiry: July 2010

Introduced at the 1933 London Motor Show, the Speed 20 SB was among a new breed of Alvis cars that combined high performance (long a recognised marque virtue) with luxury and refinement. Based around a sturdy cruciform-braced ladder-framed chassis, the new model came equipped with sizable fourteen-inch drum brakes and 'jelly mould' wire wheels. Boasting such technological novelties as independent transverse-leaf front suspension and synchromesh on all (four) forward gears, it was notably more sophisticated than rivals such as the Bentley 3.5 litre and Lagonda M45. Powered by a smooth but free-revving 2511cc OHV straight-six engine featuring dual magneto / coil ignition, triple SU carburettors and an aluminium crankcase, it was reputedly capable of 90mph. A corollary of its low-slung stance and long bonnet line, the Speed 20 SB proved an ideal canvas for the coachbuilder's art. Although, an increasing number were bodied as saloons or drophead coupes to factory-approved designs by Charlesworth and Cross & Ellis, demand for more sporting tourers remained strong.

A notably early Speed 20 SB, this particular example was road registered as 'JF 5206' on 25th October 1933. Wearing original four-seater tourer coachwork by Cross & Ellis, the Alvis was acquired by its last registered keeper, Mr Clarke, in 1966 for the princely sum of £100! Taken off the road during the 1970s as the result of an engine failure, the car remained immobile until 1996 when it was entrusted to marque specialists, Earley Engineering Ltd, for recommissioning and an engine overhaul. Returned to Mr Clarke approximately three years and £17,500 later, 'JF 5206' was again allowed to lie dormant. Dispatched to respected engineer Barry Hodson of Twyford near Melton Mowbray in 2002 with instructions that he should cure its lack of performance, the Speed 20 SB ran up a bill for another £12,280. Understood to have covered less than 200 miles since then, the Cross & Ellis Tourer was sent to Red Triangle last year for a general service and MOT in preparation for its attendance at a major Alvis Owners' Club meeting. Treated to a refurbished dynamo and seventy-eight point health check, the Alvis was delivered back immediately after passing the MOT test in July 2008 (together with an invoice for £4,900).

Coming to the realisation after forty-three years that old age and stiff joints are rather easier to cure in motorcars than human beings, Mr Clarke made the difficult decision to part with 'JF 5206'. Finished in black with green upholstery, the Speed 20 SB is variously described by the vendor as being in "unrestored" (coachwork, paintwork), "original / fair" (interior trim), "all working" (electrical equipment), "thoroughly overhauled" (engine) or "superb" (four-speed manual gearbox) condition. Reportedly fitted with a correct type but replacement engine at some stage, the Alvis is also understood to possess a high ratio back axle. Unusual in retaining its original Cross & Ellis Tourer coachwork and exhibiting a wonderful patina, this delightful Post Vintage Thoroughbred is offered for sale with buff logbook, Earley Engineering / Barry Hodson / Red Triangle invoices totalling over £34,680 and MOT certificate valid until July 2010.