Introduced in 1963, the Alvis TE21 was visually distinguished from its predecessor by ‘over and under’ quad headlights and a revised interior.

Based around a rigid box-section chassis equipped with independent coil-and-wishbone front suspension, a well-located ‘live’ rear axle and four-wheel disc brakes, the newcomer boasted a revised, more user-friendly steering box (and the option of power steering from 1964 onwards).

Reworked with a ‘bigger valve’ cylinder head and more efficient exhaust manifold, the refined four-seater’s 2993cc OHV straight-six engine was quoted as developing some 130bhp and 172lbft of torque.

Available with a choice of either ZF five-speed manual or Borg Warner three-speed automatic transmission, the model was reputedly capable of 110mph.

Trimmed in Connolly leather, the Alvis’ cosseting interior featured a central armrest for the back seat and more accessible ashtrays.

Available to special order until 1967, just 352 TE21s were made of which 178 were fixed-h...