The Alvis TE21 was a high watermark moment for the British firm, who had a long tradition of build high quality sports coupes. By the mid 1950s it was clear Alvis needed a brand new model and they commissioned Swiss coachbuilders Graber to build the TC 108G. It was first unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 1955 and while the striking new sports coupe was stunning, its handbuilt coachwork proved costly, which affected sales. Alvis switched to coach builders Mulliner Park Ward, who revised the coupe, which then became the TD21 in 1958. 

In 1963 Alvis updated its sports coupe to the Series III TE21, which continued to be available as both a four seat Coupe or Drop Head convertible. The car on sale with Car and Classic is a rare factory built 1966 Alvis TE21 Drophead Coupe that has been with its current owner for almost 40 years.

This 1966 Alvis TE21 Drophead Coupe was acquired by the current owner in January 1983, whose family have owned a number of Alvis cars going back many years. He acquired it from a gentleman in London who  who owned it for approximately a year, then acquired a TF 21.

The current owner enjoyed the Alvis TE21 for a number of years, taking it on many trips and adventures abroad. In 1988 it was in need of cosmetic restoration. This was undertaken by Red Triangle, who carried out a bare metal respray at a cost of £14,109.35. The original detailed invoice from Red Triangle is on file which documents the extensive work undertaken.

The seller notes that at the time he was unsure what colour to repaint the change, as he wanted a change from its original Alvis silver. It was then that he spotted a Range Rover undergoing restoration by Red Triangle, which was being repainted in Derwent Blue. And that is the colour the TE21 wears today.

The interior of the Alvis TE21 is a wonderful place to be, with lashings of walnut trim and leather that simply exude charm and of course luxury.

The seller had the seats re-trimmed in cream leather in the 1990s and they present in good condition today. There are a few marks present here and there as one would expect from use, but overall the leather trim is very nice indeed.

The dark walnut trim is rich and delightful and in very good order, with only minor marks present. The seller states all the gauges work (bar the clock) and they all present in nice clean condition. A later stereo and tape player has been fitted in place of the original radio.

The seller had the hood re-trimmed in 2005, with numerous invoices on file for the work. The hood and the headliner are in very good condition with only minor marks present. The hood opens and closes nicely and tucks away under its matching tonneau cover. There is a crack in the top right corner of the rear hood screen, which is shown in the photos.

As mentioned above the seller had the TE21 Drophead repainted by Red Triangle in 1988. Today this lovely shade of blue presents well with some rust bubbles starting to show in some places. There are some rust areas visible in the rear sills and the rear arches, with some bubbles in the paint on top of the front left wing, and one visible above the front right valance (below the headlight). There is also a rub mark and some cracking to the paint below the left rear tail light. These imperfections don’t detract from the look of the car however and after 34 years, the previous body restoration has held up well.

The seller adds that a pair of rear wings and 3 sill repair panels are included in the sale and are shown in the photos below.

All the cars chrome work presents well with some marks and light scratches present.

Under the bonnet resides the Alvis 3.0 litre straight six engine which produced around 130BHP and was noted for its refinement, making it a capable long distance Grand Tourer.

The TE21 started on the button and manoeuvred well for the photoshoot, idling without issue. The seller notes that there is a slight judder from the clutch when cold.

In 2011 the engine was stripped down and received new pistons, bearings and timing gear. The block was also rebored and a reconditioned crank fitted (another long story). The original crank will come with the car. 

The seller goes on to say that the radiator has been recored in his ownership and an electric fuel pump has recently been fitted. 

He states that the car drives well and has benefited from extensive work on the rear suspension area, which can be seen in the photos. 

As the cars recent MOT history shows it has covered not many miles in the past few years. As from 14th September 2022 the Alvis has a new 12 month MOT with no advisories.

The Alvis TE21 Drophead Coupe is an elegant British sports convertible that exudes class, style and luxury. It is a practical four seat Grand Tourer that is ready to use and enjoy, with the cosmetic blemishes addressed as you go along. Genuine factory built Alvis TE21 Drophead Coupe’s rarely come to market, which makes this 1966 example a worthy addition to any collection.


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.*