1938' Alvis 12/70

1938 Alvis 12/ 70 Mulliner (Sunroof) SB Saloon.
A rare survivor in authentic original condition with a fascinating history, just released from 39 year continuous family ownership. A timewarp example which has been maintained to the highest standards both mechanically and cosmetically. Won Best Overall Alvis at the International Alvis Day (on its 50th birthday) Had a complete body and chassis restoration by Red Triangle, with all bills and photos contained within the super leather-bound History File, which includes virtually every MOT and tax disc since the mid eighties. Also factory build sheets and Alvis road tests, there is even a copy letter from the Duke of Edinburgh, who was also an ardent Alvis aficionado.
Needless to say the car drives like a Rolex watch, the bodywork and chrome having been polished to death by previous pedantic Club owners, lovely, mellowed brown leather upholstery with that delicious pre-war aroma, nice French polished fascia and door cappings. The bound carpets were replaced some years ago, otherwise the inside is original. The wire wheels are new. Comes with all books and tools, including the pre-war owner‘s handbook. Club badges and superb Eagle (folded wings) Bonnet Mascot (spare rad-cap without mascot also provided) Modern flashing indicators incorporated but semaphores also still functionable. Town & Country Trumpet horns.
According to the original Alvis Guarantee document on file, the first owner was Thomas Augustus Hardcastle Esq, owner of Asthall Manor, Burford, Oxford, which was previously the home of the infamous Mitford Sisters. Seemingly it was then acquired by one Gladys Ripley, a world famous (and wealthy) Opera Singer. In 1985 it was purchased by the Chairman (and Model Registrar) of the Northern AOC Branch and has remained with his family until recently. The car has successfully participated in Club Rallies both at home and overseas and has been regularly and knowledgably maintained throughout by Alvis Specialists, as evidenced by the History Folder documentation.
This unique example is now ready for a new custodian, who will continue to use and cherish it. A budget entry ticket to the Exclusive Alvis Owner’s Club.
As mentioned, it comes with extensive history portfolio, framed copy of the Alvis factory warranty certificate, owner’s tool kits, original handbook, old MoT’s, To view this lovely old car, call John on number above. Car located in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire. Transport arranged at £1. 70 pr/ mile (no VAT)
Marque History
The Alvis 12/ 70 was announced by Alvis cars 22 September 1937. It was a four-cylinder sports saloon or 4-seater drophead coupé, related to the pricier six-cylinder Alvis Silver Crest.
Alvis manufactured the four-cylinder 1, 842 cc pushrod overhead valve engine which was similar to the engine of the Alvis Firebird but was, in fact, a new design. Its 63 hp (47 kW) was enough to propel the car to a top speed of about 80 mph (130 km/ h). Alvis also designed and made the four-speed gearbox which had synchromesh on the top three speeds.
The standard catalogued 4-door 4-seater saloon or 2-door 4-seater drophead coupé bodywork was made for Alvis by Mulliners of Birmingham.
A total of 741 cars were manufactured until 1940, with 121 still surviving. In 1945 the 12/ 70 was replaced by the modernized Alvis TA 14, but much of the 12/ 70 lived on in this post war model.