Lot details
Registration No: TUB 574
Chassis No: 25528
Mot Expiry: Sept 2007

Introduced in 1953, the Alvis TC 21 was visually distinguished from its TA21 forebear by concealed door hinges and chrome-plated window surrounds. Based around a sturdy box-section chassis equipped with independent coil and wishbone front suspension, a 'live' Salisbury back axle, telescopic shock absorbers and four-wheel Girling hydraulic drum brakes, it was a natural rival to the Bentley MKVI and Lagonda 2.6 litre. Powered by a 2993cc OHV straight-six engine allied to four-speed manual transmission, it could be had in either Mulliner Sports Saloon or Tickford Drophead Coupe guises. While, those looking for more performance could specify the TC21/100 or 'Grey Lady' version which benefited from a higher compression cylinder head and taller final drive ratio. Credited with 100bhp and a headline-grabbing 100mph top speed, most TC21/100s sported wire wheels and discreet bonnet scoops.
Finished in blue over silver with oyster / blue leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "passable" (paintwork), "good" (chassis, bodywork, wheels / tyres), "excellent" (electrical equipment, interior trim), "perfect" (four-speed manual transmission) or "rebuilt" (engine) condition. Believed but not warranted to have covered some 77,395 miles from new, 'TUB 574' has been in the current family ownership since 1985. Reportedly given a speedometer change the following year (hence the 11,563 miles shown by its odometer), the TC21/100 is further said to have been taken off the road during the mid-1990s. Treated to an engine rebuild (completed approximately 400 miles ago) and the installation of new rear shock absorbers as part of the recommissioning process it underwent during 2005, the Three Position Drophead Coupe apparently boasts a stainless steel exhaust. Coming from long-term ownership, this rare and desirable Alvis is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until September 10th 2007 and historic class (free) road tax until August 2007.