1938 | Alvis 4.3 Litre Convertible

• Matching-numbers example retaining its original engine and gearbox

• Built with the desirable high-compression engine and high-ratio rear axle from new

• Fitted with rare and beautifully proportioned short-chassis coachwork by Whittingham & Mitchel

• Accompanied by a substantial and well-documented history file

• Formerly part of a major and respected US collection

By the late 1930s, Alvis had reached the zenith of its pre-war development, and the 4.3 Litre model stood as the ultimate expression of the marque’s six-cylinder lineage. Introduced under the direction of Captain George Smith-Clarke, the 4.3 Litre was based upon the highly regarded Speed Twenty Five but featured a significantly enlarged seven-bearing overhead-valve engine producing some 137 horsepower on triple carburettors. With independent front suspension, servo-assisted brakes, a four-speed all-synchromesh gearbox and driver-adjustable hydraulic dampers, the chassis embodied the advanced engineering for which Alvis had become renowned. Contemporary road tests placed it among the very fastest un-supercharged touring cars of its era, capable of a genuine 100 mph, while offering refinement and durability to match its performance.

Chassis number 14844 was constructed on the short-wheelbase frame and is recorded in the Alvis Car Record as having been fitted from new with a special high-compression engine and the high-ratio rear axle, a specification chosen to extract the maximum performance from the already formidable 4.3 Litre platform. Dispatched initially as a bare chassis to Hugh Anderson Ltd of London in September 1938, it was returned to the factory and completed as a finished motor car in November of the same year.

The car carries distinctive drophead coupé coachwork by Whittingham & Mitchel of West London, a firm best known for contract work for major manufacturers but occasionally entrusted with commissions on prestigious chassis such as this. The body is both elegant and purposeful, closely related in theme to the short-chassis Vanden Plas tourer yet unique in execution and almost certainly tailored to the original owner’s specification. Particularly appealing features include the fully concealed hood, clean proportions and the occasional four-seat arrangement, which allows generous luggage accommodation when the rear seats are folded, making the car especially well suited to long-distance touring.

Originally supplied to Leslie Edward Martin of Surrey, the Alvis saw limited use before being laid up for the duration of the Second World War and was sold shortly thereafter. Its subsequent history includes ownership by Sir John Venables-Llewelyn, Bt, who notably used the car during the 1973 season as a tow car for his ERA, a task it reportedly performed with ease if not economy. The car later spent time in the United States, where it formed part of the celebrated collection of David Van Schaick of Pennsylvania, before eventually returning to the UK.

Between 2002 and 2004 the Alvis was comprehensively restored by Red Triangle of Kenilworth, the acknowledged authorities on the marque, who have continued to maintain the car since. The work was carried out with an emphasis on mechanical integrity and sympathetic improvement, and while discreet enhancements such as overdrive and an electronic speedometer have been added, these are carefully concealed and do not detract from the car’s original character. Importantly, the car retains its original engine and gearbox, along with numerous period features specified when new.

Accompanied by an extensive history file containing factory records, period literature and detailed documentation, this short-chassis 4.3 Litre represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most desirable configurations of one of Britain’s greatest pre-war sporting motor cars. Combining performance, elegance and usability in equal measure, it stands as a compelling example of the post-vintage thoroughbred at its very best.

Now available for viewing at the DD Classics Dealership in London, please call to book an appointment.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the above information but errors may occur. Please check with a salesperson.