Previewed in October, 1931, but not entering production until the following March, the Alvis Speed 20 SA was reputedly inspired by Donald Healey's Monte Carlo Rally-winning Invicta S-type.

The brainchild of marque draughtsman Arthur Varney.

its 'double dropped' chassis frame was fabricated from high tensile carbon sheet steel.

Enjoying a notably low centre of gravity, the newcomer was equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, a Marles Weller steering box and cable-operated 14in.

drum brakes.

Fed by triple SU carburettors, its 2,511cc OHV straight-six engine was credited with developing some 87bhp at 4,200rpm.

Allied to a four-speed 'crash' gearbox—complete with clutch stop to promote faster changes—the free-revving unit provided spirited acceleration and a 90mph top speed.

Fine-tuned by Alvis's immensely talented chief engineer, G.

T.

Smith Clarke, the sports car won praise among contemporary road testers for its 'perfect uncanny steadiness'.

Bodied by the...