1952 Alvis TA21 Tickford Drophead Coupe

Alvis Ltd. of Coventry was highly respected in post war years for developing and producing well engineered vehicles, both for military and civilian use. To someone cowering in a trench or taking cover from an approaching armoured car, the aesthetics of that particular vehicle would not have seemed important. For the occupier, speed and reliability was everything for a successful outcome. Amazingly, in manufacturing civilian vehicles, Alvis managed to combine strength, performance and reliability, coupled with elegantly styled coachwork. No wonder Alvis cars of all ages are so keenly sought by the classic vehicle purchaser.

In the present ownership of some ten years of a long term Alvis enthusiast, we understand that this TA21 Tickford Drophead Coupe has been the subject of much attention and expenditure to bring it up to its present good, reliable and usable condition. The Alvis is fitted with a TD21 engine unit coupled to a gearbox with overdrive on the third and top gears. Other mechanical improvements include the installation of electronic ignition, a steering and front suspension overhaul, a cylinder head conversion to unleaded and the fitting of a new radiator. The gearbox (with the overdrive) and the engine have also been rebuilt, covering some ten thousand miles since, and the braking system has been fully checked and a new master cylinder fitted.

The chassis rear sections have been professionally repaired and a new boot floor and support fitted. The coachwork has undergone ‘major surgery’: corroded panels and sections have been cut away and replacements fabricated, the doors have been rebuilt and re-timbered as required, the left-hand engine compartment closing panel cut out and replaced, and beautifully remade aluminium rear wing panels and wheel spats by MPH Motor Panels fitted. A complete respray followed this work, in burgundy over ivory. Most of the brightwork has been rechromed and the interior is good, but the upholstery could be improved upon.

The comprehensive history file contains a photographic record of the restoration, a record of maintenance from 2003, several old road tax discs, a large quantity of invoices, the handbook, the VE60 registration book and the V5C registration certificate.

It would be fair to say that although this TA21 is not a concours car, it is a very well ‘sorted’ Alvis with excellent reliability and performance, and has been thoroughly enjoyed on several continental rallies and tours.