Sold | 1936 Alvis Speed 20 DHC coachwork by Vanden Plas

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£74,000

1936 Alvis Speed 20 DHC coachwork by Vanden Plas

COYS • United Kingdom • 2 Jul 2016

Vehicle Details

AI Listing Summary

This 1936 Alvis Speed 20 SD Drop Head Coupe by Vanden Plas is one of only 5 ever produced, with likely only 3 remaining. It features matching chassis, engine, and body numbers, a fully documented ownership history, and extensive refurbishment, including a rebuilt engine and new interior trim.

Condition

7

The car has undergone extensive refurbishment to maintain its condition. The bodywork is original aluminum and was resprayed in 2007. The matching numbers engine was rebuilt 14,000 miles ago and runs smoothly. There's been recent work by Fisher Restorations and Red Triangle. The ash chassis shows no decay, and it has a new hood, carpets, trim, and re-chroming. It drives well and has been driven 200 miles to the showroom without issue.

/ 10

Transmission:

[Transmission]

Chassis No:

13031

Odometer:

14,000 miles

Reg Number:

CLT 472

RHD/LHD:

RHD

1931 marked the inception of the Speed 20, and it heralded a new departure for Alvis.

With a double beam axled chassis, longer and lower than previous models, its appearance rivalled that of Swallow Sidecar’s SS1.

At its heart was an enlarged and modified 2,511cc version of the Silver Eagle’s six cylinder engine, and when a synchromesh gearbox was introduced for the 1934 model year it marked the first such fitment on a British car; previously the gearbox had also been in unit with the engine.

At the same time the Speed 20 was also improved with independent front suspension using a transverse leaf spring and wishbones, while later models boasted an increase in capacity to 2,762cc to cope with heavier touring coachwork.

In either guise the Alvis Speed 20 was a formidable performer for the time, capable of 80mph, achieving 0-60mph in about 15 seconds via its four speed transmission, and was ranked as one of the best and most refined sports cars available.

It also proved popular and ...