1964 Alvis TE21 For Sale in St Louis , 2146380071 Tweet

Founded in 1919, The Alvis Car Company quickly established itself as one of Britains most quietly distinguished motor manufacturers. Rather than chasing the flamboyance of Rolls-Royce or the overt sporting image of Bentley, Alvis cultivated a reputation for engineering integrity, tasteful design, and understated luxury. Yet discretion did not equate to timidity. Alvis was responsible for the first front-wheel-drive racing car to compete at Le Mans, winning its class in 1928, and in 1933 introduced the first fully synchronized manual gearboxan innovation that would become industry standard. Throughout its history, Alvis motorcars combined technical sophistication with elegant coachwork, appealing to a discerning clientele who valued substance as much as style.

After World War II, during which the company concentrated on aero engine production, Alvis returned to automobile manufacture with renewed focus. The TA-21 of the early 1950s introduced a new 3-liter inline six-cylinder engine and robust chassis platform that would underpin the firms offerings through the end of production in 1967. While early postwar cars retained prewar conservatism in their styling, the influence of Swiss coachbuilder Graber soon ushered in a more modern aesthetic. The TD-21 of 1958 marked a decisive step forward with fully enveloped bodywork, and by 1963 the TE-21 refined the formula further, adopting distinctive quad headlamps and subtle revisions to the rear bodywork and interior appointments. Built by Park Ward to Grabers design themes, the TE-21 represents the final, mature evolution of Alvis postwar grand touring ideal.

Mechanically, the TE-21 retained the durable 3-liter inline six with twin SU carburetors, producing approximately 130 horsepower. The engine is known for its smooth delivery and impressive stamina at sustained touring speedsqualities that make the Alvis particularly satisfying on modern roads.

This 1964 TE-21 Drophead Coupe is a finely presented example of the model. Finished in opalescent silver-blue, known as Alice Blue, over a smoke gray interior with a blue Haartz cloth top, it carries itself with quiet elegance. Originally delivered in right-hand-drive configuration, it was professionally converted to left-hand drive in 1996 by Red Triangle, the acknowledged authority on the Alvis marque. Founded by former Alvis employees after the factorys closure, Red Triangle retains original factory records, drawings, and parts inventories, making their stewardship as close to a return to the works as possible.

More recently, the car returned to Red Triangle for significant recommissioning, including the installation of a fully rebuilt five-speed gearbox, new interior trim, a fresh convertible top, and carefully restored woodwork. The paintwork, refinished in bare metal in 2011, remains in very good order, with consistent panel fit that reflects the quality of its hand-built construction. Chrome brightwork presents attractively, with only minor signs of age.

Inside, the cabin is trimmed in Connolly hides over Wilton carpeting, complemented by finely finished burl walnut veneers. Correct instrumentation is set within the polished wood fascia, accompanied by an original radio installation. The large three-spoke steering wheel and upgraded five-speed gearbox lend a subtle sporting character to what is otherwise a supremely comfortable grand tourer.

Under the bonnet, the 3-liter six-cylinder engine is cleanly detailed, fitted with twin SU carburetors and the correct air box, and finished with a proper gloss-black rocker cover. The presentation is orderly and consistent with careful, knowledgeable maintenance.

If a Bentley seems too brash and a Jaguar too commonplace, the Alvis TE 21 occupies a compelling middle ground. Rare in North America and supported by marque specialists of exceptional standing, this Drophead Coupe embodies the quiet confidence and enduring appeal that have long defined Alvis motorcars. It is also a car we know well, having had the pleasure of placing it with its current caretaker more than a decade ago. Now returned to us in beautifully maintained condition, it is a welcome addition to our inventory and a particularly fine representative of this understated British grand tourer.

Offers welcome and trades considered.