1931 Alvis 12/50 TJ Tourer

Description

Just three owners since 1972, the current for 26 years; only 3,000 miles since full engine rebuild; well-maintained and in regular use; twin SU carb upgrade; Cross & Ellis body; older restoration with bags of character

Alvis launched its immortal 12/50 in 1923. This car was to build the reputation of the firm, for it delivered extreme reliability, performance way beyond what would be expected of a 50bhp car (thanks to its light weight), quality construction and a feeling of ‘oneness’ way in excess of the sum of its parts. Clutton and Stanford in their staple ‘The Vintage Motor Car’ said of the 12/50: “We cannot but consider it one of the classic designs of the time, and it remains of all Vintage sports cars the one which needs the least apology”.

The 12/50 developed through a bewildering number of series, each one carrying a range of attractive coachwork. The most famous are, of course, the ‘Ducksback’ and later the ‘Beetleback’ three-seaters, but for those requiring more space, Cross & Ellis produced a most elegant four-seat tourer (as here).

The TJ was produced from 1931 – 1932 with a 1,645cc four-cylinder OHV engine featuring a harmonic balancer on the crankshaft and coil ignition. It had a four-speed ‘box and four-wheel brakes, lower springs and a significantly taller radiator making for a taller bonnet and bodywork.

First registered in Gloucestershire in December 1931, this 12/50 TJ Four-Seat Tourer has had just three owners since 1972. Our vendor acquired the car in 1998 from a Mr MJ Ridley who had previously owned the car from 1972 – 1974. Correspondence on file states that he had rebuilt the car mechanically and then used it as everyday transport and for racing and rallying in VSCC events, winning both the AOC Midland Trophy and the Martin Smith Trophy in 1972. He then bought the car back in 1997 and once again restored her as required (invoices on file).

Our vendor has used the car regularly, covering some 7,500 miles in the last 20 years alone, according to the MOT history, including a round trip from Lewes to Prescott, a journey of over 300 miles. He has largely maintained the car himself but is fortunate enough to live only 15 miles away from 12/50 guru Micky Radford who has provided invaluable technical assistance over the years. There are many invoices and much correspondence on file to show regular upkeep.

Early in his ownership the car received a new wiring loom, rebuilt dash instruments, rebuilt rear leaf springs and new leather spring gaiters to keep them in good shape. It was also fitted with twin SU carbs, like the 12/60 model, which give a useful boost in performance compared to the standard single carb set-up.

In 2007, following a breakdown caused by a broken con rod (a 12/50 weakness), the car was sent to Tony Leech of Caleng Ltd in Rugby to be fixed. As is the way with old cars, one thing soon led to another and it ended up having a complete engine rebuild with new pistons, liners, Phoenix con rods, crank journals, Reece camshaft, valve guides, hardened exhaust valve inserts etc.

The crankshaft, flywheel and clutch housing were all dynamically balanced. The carbs were also rebuilt along with the clutch, dynamo, distributor, starter motor, steering draglink and Marles steering box, the bill for this lot coming to £8,985. The car has only covered around 3,000 miles since.

In 2014 it received a new black mohair tonneau and hood bag. The hood and all six sidescreens are also present and in serviceable condition. A spare wheel and some spare brake drums and shoes are also included. Besides all the invoices, the large history file also contains the current V5C plus older V5 and green logbook from 1972, FIVA papers issued in 1997 plus a box full of useful manuals, Alvis books and technical literature.

Although the car has been used less frequently in recent years due to the vendor’s advancing years, it has been started and run regularly. It has been starting easily and running well as we have moved it around on site, with healthy oil pressure – as you would expect from a rebuilt engine with so few miles on it.

As you can see in the photos, it looks generally very presentable with a nicely mellowed air, although the paintwork would benefit from some localised attention here and there. Altogether a well-cared-for Alvis, from long-term ownership, with bags of character which is ready for new adventures…

For more information contact James on 07970 309907 or email james.dennison@brightwells.com