We are thrilled to offer this lovely Alvis Speed 25 with three-position drophead coupe bodywork by Charlesworth. In the current ownership for over 25 years, it was formerly the long-term property of the Alvis Owners Club Secretary, Ken Day, and, apart from a repaint some 50 years ago, it is believed to be in largely original and unrestored condition.

Launched in 1936, the SB model Speed 25 was designed to compete with the likes of Lagonda's LG45 and the Derby Bentleys. Powered by a 3571cc straight-six engine, fed by triple SU carburettors, it offered near 100mph performance and impressive refinement. The 108 hp engine was known as a particularly smooth and flexible unit, thanks to a balanced, seven bearing crankshaft and, coupled with an all-synchromesh four speed gearbox, it gave sports car performance from a luxury package. Bodies offered were either saloon or drophead coupe (as our car) by Charlesworth or open tourers by Cross & Ellis. The war brought production to an end by 1940 and it is believed that just 391 cars were built.

Our car was ordered in 1938 and delivered in 1939 to Lady Hollander who specified the Air Force Blue coachwork. After the war she traded it in with London dealers Henlys against a new Jaguar XK120 and it has had just a handful of owners since. In the current ownership it has been used regularly and enthusiastically, including being in great demand for weddings. We are told that apart from a back axle rebuild some years ago it has been totally reliable, needing nothing more than routine maintenance. It is an easy starter and runs sweetly while the 14 inch drum brakes are well up to the task of stopping it in modern traffic. On the day our pictures were taken it had just returned from more wedding duties, completed - as ever - without fuss. It has a new MOT.

Quite clearly such an original car is going to have acquired plenty of patina over the course of 74 years but it is in very sound and usable condition. The bodywork is all alloy with the exception of steel wings and is in excellent condition. The paint work has dulled in places with age and has been touched in here and there, but it still presents well and the chrome is in very good order. The interior is original and complete, without significant damage, having been largely protected by covers during the current ownership. The hood is also in good condition.

The Speed 25 is one of the most desirable cars of the late thirties and there can be few survivors in such unmolested condition. The owner (who is the same age as the car) is hoping that a new custodian can be found who would like to keep it just as it is.

Please not that the car is not stored in our showroom so a little notice may be needed to arrange viewings.