Seemingly pristine piece of pre-war motoring history
Considerable documentation with the car
The Appeal
Manufactured only between 1931 and 1932, the Alvis TL 12/60 is a rare example of pre-war motoring. Just 229 models were ever produced meaning few exist on the roads today and this particular car has to be one of the best around thanks to thourough maintenance.
It is a later iteration, built towards the end of 1932 and features excellent sports tourer bodywork by Cross & Ellis. Thanks to a greater restoration process around 20 years ago, the Ivory white paint decorating this stunning body is in fantastic condition and the rest of the car follows the trend.
Mechanically, it has undergone minor upgrades focusing on the engine’s internals, allowing the car to run just as it should. The current owner has often taken it on tours of Europe. Sun out, top down motoring is what this exquisite piece of automotive history is all about.
Getting inside this beautiful 1932 Alvis TL 12/60 is certainly like stepping back in time. The crafted wood dash and simplistic steering wheel are just some of the charming elements to be found in this cabin.
The colour red dominates throughout with excellent condition carpets as well as leather seats that catch the eye. Bar some creasing in the front row’s lower sections, they too seem to be in good shape. In fact, this car was subject to a full restoration no more than 20 years ago with a lot of work done to the interior. As a result, nothing more than touches of attractive patina decorate this car.
Lodged within the elegantly sculpted dashboard is the surprisingly advanced for its time, instrument cluster. This features a standard clock and speedometer, but also a rev counter as well as pressure and temperature gauges for oil and coolant respectively.
In its full upright position, the roof’s headlining looks to be in good condition and provides a nice contrast to the rest of the bright red interior. Towards the back, a small boot offers a modest amount of storage space all while allowing access to the underside of the car.
Featuring styling from coachbuilders, Cross & Ellis, this Sports Tourer is certainly a looker. A long bonnet is flanked by curvaceous wings, all of which leads to the main cabin of the car. This quintessential look defines the pre-war era of automobiles and this particular example most definitely shows off the best of its time.
Stunning Ivory white paint which looks to be in fantastic condition is contrasted by the cherry red wheels. They too look to be in good shape and are complimented by a seemingly fresh set of Firestone tyres.
Chrome pieces on the front, including the large grille and round headlights seem to shine as they should. And several badges are proudly displayed front and centre. Towards the rear end, the taillight and bumper assembly features some slight patina.
Bar some creasing in places, the soft top hood looks to be in good shape. It also comes with a set of windows to be fitted if needed.
Underneath, the ladder frame chassis as well as some of the mechanical parts are showing small signs of surface corrosion in places. This is most visible on the chassis around the battery and throughout the leaf springs. Though as a whole, this car certainly looks well taken care of.
Under the bonnet of this sporty TL Alvis sits a dainty, twin carb 1645cc four-cylinder engine reportedly capable of 54hp when new.
This particular motor has been upgraded. In recent years, the current owner has fitted it with a Phoenix crankshaft and rods, an alloy flywheel, a new cylinder head and a total gearbox overhaul.
Throughout its life, this car has been very well maintained. Its mileage has long been tracked meticulously, it has received regular servicing and work has been carried out when needed. Furthermore, the engine bay itself looks to be in great condition. As a result, the owner informs us that it runs as it should. It is often taken on tours of Italy and France.
With rich documentation and a fantastic condition, this particular Alvis TL 12/60 is a great example. It features a number of engine upgrades improving its useability. While stunning bodywork by coachbuilders, Cross & Ellis coupled with a daring colour combination certainly do well to catch the eye.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
More about buying with us
1932 Alvis TL 12/60 Sports Tourer by Cross & Ellis
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