1966 Alvis TF21 Saloon

Lot details
Registration No: GVC473D
Chassis No: 27405
Mot Expiry: May 2010

Destined to become Alvis' production car swansong, the TF21 was introduced in March 1966. Sharing the same svelte two-door styling as its TE21 predecessor, the newcomer was based around a rigid box-section chassis equipped with independent coil-and-wishbone front suspension, a well-located 'live' rear axle, four-wheel disc brakes and power steering. Upgraded via a raised compression ratio, water-heated inlet manifold, triple SU carburettors and thermostatically-controlled electric fan, the refined four-seater's 2993cc OHV straight-six engine was quoted as developing some 150bhp and 182lbft of torque. Available with a choice of either ZF five-speed manual or Borg Warner three-speed automatic transmission, the model was reputedly capable of 120mph. Trimmed in Connolly leather its cosseting interior also sported a wooden dashboard and revised, more driver-orientated instrument binnacle. Among the rarest and most desirable of the Alvis 3-Litre cars, the TF21 only lasted in production until 1967 by which time a mere 106 are thought to have been made.

H&H are indebted to the vendor for the following description: "This particular example was originally owned by Alvis. Used as a works development car until 1967 when it passed into private hands, 'GVC 473D' has since had four keepers the last of whom was a lifelong marque enthusiast. The indicated mileage of 58,511 is believed but not warranted to be correct. Over the years the two-door saloon has been well maintained with many bills available. An unleaded cylinder head was installed in 1998 and a decoke (including regrinding of the valves) carried out two years ago. New front springs were fitted during 2006. The interior is in very good, original condition. The chassis has been recently inspected and no significant corrosion found. Paintwork is very good excepting a small area of bubbling to the rear wing". The seller further comments that the bodywork and electrical equipment are "very good", while he rates the engine and five-speed manual gearbox as "excellent". Riding on wire wheels, this handsome TF21 is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until May 2010 and historic class (free) road tax.