Description
c. 1938 Alvis Mulliner Drophead coupé
Introduced in September, 1937, the Alvis 12/ 70 was built to the same high standards as its more expensive six-cylinder brethren. Following an industry wide trend, the newcomer utilised a number of proprietary components including an Alford & Adler front axle, ENV rear axle, Marles steering and Bendix Cowdrey four-wheel drum brakes. Boxed both front and rear, its 8ft. 10in. wheelbase, ladder-frame chassis was notably light. A clean sheet design despite sharing the same bore and stroke dimensions (73mm by 110mm) as its Firebird predecessor, the 1, 842cc OHV four-cylinder engine employed a robust three-bearing crankshaft, single SU carburettor, one-piece cylinder block and crankcase casting, and triplex chain-driven camshaft. Quoted as developing some 63bhp at 4, 000rpm, it was allied to four-speed manual transmission (complete with synchromesh on second, third and fourth gears). Reputedly capable of 80mph and 25-30mpg, the 12/ 70 was typically bodied by Mulliners of Birmingham as either a four-door saloon or two-door drophead coupé, but London-based marque dealer Hugh Anderson also commissioned a tourer variant. Riding on conventional `knock-on' wire wheels, the model remained in production until 1940, by which time some 776 are thought to have been made. Just 150 12/ 70s were bodied in Drophead Coupé format.
Nothing is known of the history of this 12/ 70, except that it was acquired some thirty years ago or more for the Alyth Collection, where it has resided primarily in the company of Rolls-Royces and Bentleys. Although presented as a major restoration project and in a partially dismantled state, most of the panels look to be in a saveable condition and we have no doubt that, with a bit of time and effort, the chassis and drivetrain could be returned to roadworthiness.
** Engine turns over freely by starting handle** Chassis looks to be very solid
Very rare example with only a handful left, a worthwhile restoration project, no paperwork but surely the Alvis owners club will be able to assist with registration?
Can be delivered at extra cost
