1931 Alvis TJ 12/50 4 Seater Tourer by Richard Breese

Now offered with no reserve

• Previously restored with replica four-seat Cross & Ellis bodywork
• Used sparingly and mechanically excellent
• Rebuilt steering box - a must on any 12/50 of the period
• Backdated aesthetically to represent a TJ, but retaining its TG underpinnings

A seminal model for the Alvis Car Company, the 12/50 was introduced in 1923, and lasted in production through various revisions until 1932. Featuring a number of inline-four engine configurations ranging from 1.5 to 1.65 litres in displacement, the 12/50 in all its forms quickly earned itself a reputation as a fantastic car for the discerning motorist, with its speed and reliability boosting sales significantly in period.

Initially replaced in 1927 by the inline-six engined, 1870cc 14.75hp, the subsequent depression going into the 1930s forced the need for a cheaper car with a reputation for reliability, and Alvis re-introduced the 12/50 in late 1930. These cars - the so-called ‘revival’ TJ and TL models - featured a harmonically-balanced crankshaft, coil ignition, lower springs and a taller body, enabling them to be quickly identified by knowing enthusiasts.

This particular ‘revival’ 1931-registered TJ 12/50 has undergone significant restoration in the past, having started out life as a fawn-coloured Cross & Ellis - bodied two-seater with red wire wheels and a red leather interior. Delivered new to a Mr Frank Wood of Birmingham by Birmingham’s Alvis agent Frank Hallams, the car ‘disappeared’ for numerous years, before turning up in a rather sorry state in Helensburgh, having been apparently converted into a ‘special’ and partly restored.

The owner then chose to completely re-body the car and back-date it to an earlier ‘TG’ four-seat model with replica Cross & Ellis bodywork, in order to benefit from both a level of weatherproofing and also the earlier, arguably prettier bodywork with its shorter radiator. This work was carried out to the highest standard by well-known specialist Richard Breese, who also thoroughly overhauled and reconditioned the chassis and running gear. New white metalling and a crank re-grind was carried out by Cotswold engineering, and a big power 1645 head fitted to the engine, along with a new manifold, stainless steel exhaust and a rebuilt Marles steering box.

The original Fawn-over-red colour combination was replaced with matching dark blue bodywork and upholstery, with the trim work being carried out by Anne Taylor including a full dark blue interior, matching tonneau cover, full wet-weather hood and side screens.

Particularly detail-oriented viewers will also be delighted to note that the instruments are period-correct, and the car has the correct Hare mascot.

Regularly maintained by Red Triangle and presenting in very good condition throughout, this is a wonderfully attractive and useable example of the ‘revival’ special Alvis, which also benefits from an aesthetically-pleasing colour combination and backdated bodywork. An excellent collectors car that can be enjoyed year-round.