1938 Alvis Speed 25 SC with coachwork by Charlesworth
921
Winning bid
€72,500
1938 Alvis Speed 25 SC with coachwork by Charlesworth
Highlights
Rare Charlesworth SC open tourer with less than 10 examples in existence today
Matching numbers and documented history back to the first owner
Extensive restoration carried out between 1992 and 1998 with extensive documentation
Equipped with adjustable shock absorbers and integral chassis lift system
The appeal
The Alvis Speed 25 was one of the most technically accomplished and desirable British sports cars of the pre-war era, offering Rolls-Royce refinement with enhanced performance.
The elegant bodywork of the Charlesworth coupé cabriolet represents one of the rarest and most sought-after configurations, with fewer than 10 examples surviving today.
This 1938 car has an interesting history, having originally been owned by James Galt, a Glasgow brewery owner, and benefiting from a meticulous six-year restoration completed in 1998. Now registered in France and maintained in good condition by its current owner since its acquisition in 2014, this Speed 25 with matching numbers represents a rare opportunity to acquire an exceptional pre-war British grand tourer.image.png1.41 MB
History and Documents
First registered on 21 November 1938 to James Galt, owner of a brewery in Glasgow
Underwent an extensive restoration between 1992 and 1998
Documented in an article by Ben Lenthall entitled "The Renaissance of a Speed 25 DHC".
Purchased by the current owner in 2014 from Imparts BV in the Netherlands for €168,000
Accompanied by an appraisal from Abas BV Bureau d'Estimation et de Expertise
Includes two folders containing photographs and restoration invoices
French registration DK-643-NC
Matching numbers confirmed
10,399 miles indicated
Regularly serviced, including oil and filter changes, new battery, brake lines, spark plugs and greasing of all moving parts
The bodywork looks very good for an 87-year-old vehicle.
Only minor scratches visible on close inspection
Slight traces of surface rust noted on the bumpers
The roof mechanism and materials are said to be in good condition
The interior leather has an attractive patina consistent with age
As can be seen from the photographs, this Alvis is an extremely elegant machine, with sleek lines evocative of the era from which it comes.
The photographs also show that this car is in very good condition for its age, with an older, top-of-the-range restoration that continues to hold up well.
Naturally, the car has accumulated a gentle patina of age, but nothing of note according to the seller's account.
Integrated chassis lift system operated by a crank on the rear bumper to facilitate tyre changes
The central lubrication system has been blocked and replaced by individual grease nipples
The original central lubrication system could be reinstated if desired
The seller reports having driven the car 1,200 km to Switzerland with no problems
Regular servicing has apparently been carried out, including oil and filter changes for the engine and gearbox
New battery fitted during current ownership
Brake lines have been replaced
Spark plugs have been renewed
Seller notes minor oil leak typical of British cars of this era
All moving parts have been properly greased, we are told
We are assured that this Alvis is in good running order, having undertaken a 1,200km trip to Switzerland during the seller's time, without encountering any problems along the way.
We are told that the seller has kept the car in good condition, serviced and used to ensure that it remains a reliable companion on long journeys such as this.
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. Photos 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.
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