Highlights

• One of only 352 produced, this one being the 270th
• Rare automatic gearbox, one of only 85 produced in 1965
• Complete history since new, with documentation from the Alvis archives
• Vehicle with matching numbers and known ownership history
• Registered in France

The most

By the 1960s, it was clear that Alvis was beginning to struggle. The Second World War had taken its toll on the modest British company, and it wasn't until 1958 that it finally reached significant production levels. This considerable delay in bringing a mainstream model to market reduced its purchasing power, and an Alvis, however elegant and luxuriously equipped, was still a very expensive car.

The public was not convinced by these high prices, and the last two Alvis models unfortunately did not enjoy the success they deserved. It's a shame, because these are exceptional cars, refined and full of character. With their sleek bodywork, superimposed headlights and impressive in-line six-cylinder engine, they had everything to please - if you forget the price.

The brand's penultimate model, the TE 21 was undoubtedly one of the most majestic saloons of the 1960s. But its career was short-lived, with just 352 examples produced. Its replacement did even less well and, in 1968, the Alvis brand was absorbed by Rover, putting an end to this much-loved marque.

This particular example is distinguished by its automatic gearbox, a rare option chosen by only 85 customers. Its history is remarkably well documented, and it sports an elegant Red and Ivory colour combination, with the added bonus of a Webasto sunroof. A TE 21 in good condition is a rarity on the market, and we expect this one to attract a lot of interest.

History and Documents

• First registered in 1965
• Only 4 owners in 60 years
• Purchased on 16/09/2021
• Full history with Alvis archive documents
• Always stored in a closed garage
• Vehicle with matching numbers
• 270th of 349 built in 1965
• MOT valid until April 2027
• Only defect noted (play in steering) corrected
• Documentation supplied including :
  • Service manuals and booklets
  • Numerous magazines
  • Extensive file of invoices
  • Registration documents
  • Spare parts catalogue on CD-ROM
  • Paper parts catalogue

General condition

• Very good overall condition, with bright red interior
• Park Ward bodywork with aluminium doors and roof
• No major dents or dings, although the vendor notes the following:
• Surface corrosion on the chassis
• Slight impact to the front left wing, resulting in a crack in the paintwork
• Slight scuff marks and small paint chips in some areas.
• However, these defects are minor and not intrusive, as the car is very well maintained overall
• 4 new tyres, size 205/70 x 15
• Leather upholstery partially reupholstered at the front, with original patina on the rear bench seat
• Carpets in good original condition
• New Webasto sunroof
• All dashboard equipment functional, including :
• Cigarette lighter
• Clock
• Radio (turns on but does not pick up, being shortwave)

Mechanicals

• 3.0-litre in-line 6-cylinder engine
• 3-speed automatic gearbox, a rare option on the TE 21
• 4-wheel power-assisted disc brakes
• 4-piston front aluminium callipers
• 2-piston aluminium callipers at rear
• Engine compartment in very good condition
• Extensive work carried out, including
• Installation of an additional electric fan, controlled from the dashboard
• New stainless steel fuel tank
• New and improved braking system, with new aluminium callipers and aviation hoses
• Refurbished cooling radiator with replaced hoses
• New front springs, shock absorbers, silent blocks and stabiliser bars
• New starter motor and crankshaft damper pulley
• New speedometer and rev counter cables
• The seller comments that the car drives smoothly and pleasantly, with convincing braking.
• No mechanical problems reported

BEFORE BUYING