1963 Alvis TD21 Saloon

The TD21 was conceived in 1956 and was quite a departure from the lovely, but rather "post-war" TC21 however, on its arrival in dealer's showrooms, it quickly set about changing established views of the Alvis. Following the loss of coachbuilders Mulliner and Tickford (who were now tied to other companies), Alvis turned to the Swiss coachbuilder, Graber whose tradition of producing sleek, modern and very elegant saloons and dropheads proved a good fit in terms of the way Alvis saw their future. Graber first presented this new style to the Alvis board in late 1957 who were very impressed with the Swiss company's flowing design and commissioned the body to be built on the new TD chassis.To ease logistical problems, Park Ward of London, built the Graber designed bodies in the UK.

The Alvis Three Litre TD21 Series I was produced between the end of 1958 and April 1962, and was powered by the TC's 2993 cc engine, uprated by 15bhp to 115 as a result of an improved cylinder head design and an increased compression ratio. A new four-speed gearbox from the Austin-Healey 100 was incorporated, while the suspension remained similar to the cars predecessor, independent at the front using coil springs and leaf springs at the rear, but the track was increased slightly and a front anti-roll bar added. From 1959 the all drum brake set up was changed to discs at the front retaining drums at the rear. In April 1962, the car was upgraded with four wheel Dunlop disc brakes in place of the disc/drum combination, aluminium doors, a five-speed ZF gearbox and pretty recessed spotlights either side of the grille, these improvements coming together to create the TD21 Series II. This impressive new Alvis boasted a most agreeable top speed of 105 mph.

This low ownership example of the TD21 passed into experienced hands when it was purchased by Viv Richards in 1996 from a fellow Alvis club member. As such, the car was maintained by knowledgeable enthusiasts, ensuring its upkeep has been attentive and detailed. The recorded mileage at that time was a relatively low 30,000 miles and the car retains to this day its original number plate of 3969VT.

This Alvis was used sparingly and, we understand was well cared for, remaining in the family when it was passed to the owner's son in 2001 who looked after the vehicle for a further 6 years before passing it on to his brother. During the family's ownership, 3969 VT has been lovingly and sympathetically restored, paying particular attention to replacing any rusting panels. The Alvishas an excellent chassis and the mechanical condition is first class as would be expected from such a cherished piece of family history. 3969 VT has continued it's life as a well kept and lightly used classic with a current recorded mileage of just 34,000 miles.

The car presents superbly in Alvis Light Metallic Blue, and the interior is lovely in a medium beige with mid-blue carpets. The dashboard is always a feature with T series cars, and this one doesn't disappoint with unmarked Burr Walnut veneers and crisp, clear instruments. The car sits squarely on its steel wheels, the tyres look hardly worn and the whole car looks, well you know, right.

Having been a cherished family member for years, this Gentleman's Express is now looking forward to starting a new journey.