1934 Alvis Speed 20 SC Drop Head Coupe

Description and History

Originally registered as AUG 11 on the 8th December 1934. this unique Alvis Speed 20 SC Drop Head Coupe with matching numbers and original coachwork. was according to the factory record. ordered  in chassis form by Bambers of Leeds. to their order  it  was bodied as a 3 position Drop Head Coupe by John Charles Limited of Middlesex to the design of Brainsbury Woollard. it is worth noting the overriders monogrammed  BW and coach maker's commission plate on the boot sill. Its early history is being researched. however by 1962 the second owner was Mr Sidney Richard Cain of Henley on Thames. who owned the car until 1982 when it purchased by Raymond  Sargeant also Henley on Thames. Around this time the registration was changed to FAS 40

During Ray Sargeant's ownership the car underwent a complete chassis up restoration with new framework and panelling where appropriate. The worked was completed by Rob Green of Gloria Coachworks. Sold via Sotheby's in 1984 to Mr Daouk of Richmond Surrey. following whom the Alvis was owned by Mr John Harris of Okehampton.

During Mr Harris's ownership the Speed Twenty underwent a cosmetic refresh which included a bare metal respray. and in recent years an engine rebuild was carried out which included a replacement cylinder head. valves and valve guides. camshaft and cam followers.

Today open Alvis Speed 20's are a valuable and sought after model. with excellent support for parts and service available through Red Triangle. Earley Engineering and other Alvis specialists. In addition the marque is well supported through the Alvis Owners Club. providing Regional. National and International events for all models. with the Alvis Trust also providing the  opportunity to research their comprehensive archive.

The Speed 20 SC is ideally suited to European tours and events. and with the three position coupe coachwork. provides  a fast. elegant touring car which can be used in all weathers.

Condition Report Overall

A unique three position Alvis Speed 20 SC Drop Head Coupe designed by Brainsby Woollard. who designed coachwork for Bugattis in the same period. in excellent sound condition. with a sold frame and coachwork. well maintained mechanicals. now recently recommissioned and ready for autumn events.

Body / Coachwork / Interior

FAS 49 underwent a full restoration in the early 1980's and is remembered by Rob Green as being one of Gloria Coachworks first projects. reminiscing. Rob remembers removing the original panelwork. replacing the timber frame where necessary and re-panelling as required. The car was subsequently treated to a bare metal respray approximately ten years ago. of which there is a photographic record. A new set of tyres have just been fitted.

The interior in beige leather is in very good condition. with only a few blemishes from some thirty years use. the carpets could  be refreshed at some stage. and the hood whilst having no rips or tears. could again be refreshed to match the gleaming burgundy coachwork. We would be happy to undertake any additional work . if required. on behalf of a new owner.

Engine and Mechanicals

The powerful Speed 20SC engine starts well. and runs at a constant temperature. with good oil pressure. following in the last 1000 miles. the fitting of newly cast cylinder head. valves. to compliment  the new camshaft and bearing supplied by Red Triangle in the early 2000's. The dual purpose BTH JD6 magneto / distributor has been rebuilt. and very recently a restored HT changeover switch has been fitted.

The gearbox is a pleasure to use being an Alvis syncro box. and changes gear effortlessly. whilst in our workshops. the brakes have been stripped and cleaned. the car has also received a service and tune up

Documents available

History File including invoices from the 1960's

Alvis Speed 20 SC manuals

Alvis factory record card

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