In 1931, the 12/50 was joined by an even sportier partner, the 12/60.

It was powered by a 1,645cc, overhead valve, four-cylinder engine with a high compression ratio and twin carburettors resulting in a useful increase in maximum power to 56bhp.

The gearbox was a four-speed manual, suspension was by semi-elliptic leaf springs front and rear and the new model was pulled up by four-wheel, cable-operated drum brakes.

A sports saloon, four-seater sports and two-seater sports were offered, the last clothed in graceful Beetleback coachwork.

Testing a 12/60 Beetleback in 1931, Motor Sport found that the car could almost touch 80mph, yet was capable of returning 30mpg even when driven hard.

Today, Alvis' 12/50 and 12/60 are among the most highly sought after sports cars of their day, with an enthusiastic following worldwide.

VU 7678 carries a lightweight sports two-seater special body and was purchased from the deceased estate of Mr Michael J.

Thwaites, former director of Thwaites Ltd....