Highlights

One of only 352 produced, this one being the 270th
Rare automatic gearbox, one of only 85 produced in 1965
Complete history since new, with documentation from the Alvis archives
Vehicle with matching numbers and known ownership history
Registered in France

The most

By the 1960s, it was clear that Alvis was beginning to struggle. The Second World War had taken its toll on the modest British company, and it wasn't until 1958 that it finally reached significant production levels. This considerable delay in bringing a mainstream model to market reduced its purchasing power, and an Alvis, however elegant and luxuriously equipped, was still a very expensive car.

The public was not convinced by these high prices, and the last two Alvis models unfortunately did not enjoy the success they deserved. It's a shame, because these are exceptional cars, refined and full of character. With their sleek bodywork, superimposed headlights and impressive in-line six-cylinder engine, they had everything to please - if you forget the price.

The brand's penultimate model, the TE 21 was undoubtedly one of the most majestic saloons of the 1960s. But its career was short-lived, with just 352 examples produced. Its replacement did even less well and, in 1968, the Alvis brand was absorbed by Rover, putting an end to this much-loved marque.

This particular example is distinguished by its automatic gearbox, a rare option chosen by only 85 customers. Its history is remarkably well documented, and it sports an elegant Red and Ivory colour combination, with the added bonus of a Webasto sunroof. A TE 21 in good condition is a rarity on the market, and we expect this one to attract a lot of interest.

History and Documents

First registered in 1965
Only 4 owners in 60 years
Purchased on 16/09/2021
Full history with Alvis archive documents
Always stored in a closed garage
Vehicle with matching numbers
270th of 349 built in 1965
MOT valid until April 2027
Only defect noted (play in steering) corrected
Documentation supplied including :
- Service manuals and booklets
- Numerous magazines
- Extensive file of invoices
- Registration documents
- Spare parts catalogue on CD-ROM
- Paper parts catalogue

General condition

Very good overall condition, with bright red interior
Park Ward bodywork with aluminium doors and roof
No major dents or dings, although the vendor notes the following:
Surface corrosion on the chassis
Slight impact to the front left wing, resulting in a crack in the paintwork
Slight scuff marks and small paint chips in some areas.
However, these defects are minor and not intrusive, as the car is very well maintained overall
4 new tyres, size 205/70 x 15
Leather upholstery partially reupholstered at the front, with original patina on the rear bench seat
Carpets in good original condition
New Webasto sunroof
All dashboard equipment functional, including :
Cigarette lighter
Clock
Radio (turns on but does not pick up, being shortwave)

Mechanicals

3.0-litre in-line 6-cylinder engine
3-speed automatic gearbox, a rare option on the TE 21
4-wheel power-assisted disc brakes
4-piston front aluminium callipers
2-piston aluminium callipers at rear
Engine compartment in very good condition
Extensive work carried out, including
Installation of an additional electric fan, controlled from the dashboard
New stainless steel fuel tank
New and improved braking system, with new aluminium callipers and aviation hoses
Refurbished cooling radiator with replaced hoses
New front springs, shock absorbers, silent blocks and stabiliser bars
New starter motor and crankshaft damper pulley
New speedometer and rev counter cables
The seller comments that the car drives smoothly and pleasantly, with convincing braking.
No mechanical problems reported

BEFORE BUYING

This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.

✓ We ask that a non-refundable fee is paid if you are the lucky winner of the auction or if your bid is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific fees.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as is", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photographs and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and it is customary to carry out a full vehicle inspection prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or tender price, as specified in the advert.

✓ We want the transaction to go as smoothly as you do, which is why UK-registered cars and motorbikes offered for sale on Car & Classic are HPI checked to ensure they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not financially pledged, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are registered as written off as part of a total loss at the time the advert is placed on Car & Classic and provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the status of the vehicle and it is always worth carrying out a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.

✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third party transport company who can assist you. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected].