The Alvis marque was launched shortly after the end of the Great War, offering a lively, light car in the 1500cc class.

The more discerning motorist was targeted who placed quality and satisfaction before price.

The first three side-valve-engined models lived up to that promise but it was the engine redesign in 1923 to feature overhead valves that created the famous 12/50 model; an all-time classic.

It evolved through various subtypes and the company was ambitious enough not only to launch a successful six-cylinder model in 1927 of largely similar design and dimensions, but also introduced a supercharged front-wheel drive production model, directly developed from the firm's innovative racing cars.

Having been purchased as a running motorcar in 1974, this 12/50 TJ underwent a full chassis-up restoration in 1976 by the current vendor and having only covered 6,500 miles since that restoration, the car is in splendid order throughout.

Offered in blue with contrasting black wings, this...