Highlights 

• Remarkable authenticity and originality, with the seller describing the car as largely unrestored
• Matching chassis and engine numbers, according to the information provided
• Engine and gearbox rebuilt around 2005, with no supporting paperwork available
• Electrical equipment reported as working, including retractable semaphore indicators
• From a private collection, this car is roadworthy and has been kept under cover

The appeal

 
Introduced in 1932, the Alvis Speed 20 embodied British grand touring in the 1930s. Quick and refined for its day, it combined an overhead-valve straight-six with advanced mechanical engineering. The SB series was notable for its preselector gearbox. Built in limited numbers, the Speed 20 offered a sporting approach to grand touring, in a class that also included the likes of Bentley and Rolls-Royce.
 
This 1933 Speed 20 SB stands out above all for its claimed originality. According to the seller, the bodywork is sound and has not undergone major repair or accident damage. The blue leather interior retains its period patina, while the hood is described as being in good condition. The engine and gearbox are said to have been rebuilt around 2005. The seller says the engine starts easily, both cold and hot, and runs consistently.
 
From a private collection, this Alvis is offered in running order. It would suit an enthusiast of pre-war British cars seeking an example with preserved character, rather than a fully restored car.
 

History and paperwork

• First registered in 1933, shortly after the Speed 20 was launched
• From a private collection; the car arrived at the seller in running order
• Kept indoors since arriving at the seller
• British registration documents supplied; car already imported into Europe
• Standard logbook
• Engine and gearbox rebuilt around 2005 according to the previous owner, with no invoices or supporting paperwork available
• Sold without an MOT certificate, the vehicle being described as exempt

Condition

• Bodywork described by the seller as sound and well preserved, with period patina
• No visible sign of accident damage or major repair to the chassis or bodywork, according to the seller
• Paintwork showing some wear marks and age-related imperfections
• Chrome in good condition considering the age of the vehicle
• Blue leather interior with period patina and some signs of use
• Hood described as being in good condition

The appeal of this example lies largely in its state of preservation and unrestored appearance. A cosmetic restoration would risk significantly altering its character. The seller describes the overall condition as very good, while noting the marks of time on the paintwork and in the cabin.
 

Mechanicals

• 2.7-litre (2,687 cc) straight-six engine
• Four-speed preselector gearbox
• Vehicle offered in running order

Built for grand touring, the Speed 20 prioritised accessible performance and refined driving for its era. According to the seller, the engine starts easily when cold or hot and runs smoothly. The preselector gearbox is described as working with smoothness and precision. The braking system, suspension, tyres and clutch are also presented as being in very good condition. The steering is described as firm.
 
This Alvis retains the character of a 1930s British grand tourer, presented with an emphasis on patina and claimed authenticity.
 

BEFORE YOU BUY