"The name Alvis was always synonymous with craftsmanship and performance, and the final models produced by this very British manufacturer were no exception. When production of the 3-litre cars ended in 1954 that might have been the end of Alvis cars for good had it not been for Swiss coachbuilder Graber, who for some time had successfully rebodied Alvis chassis with his own elegant and modern designs. In 1953 Alvis reached an agreement to build the Graber cars under licence; Loughborough coachbuilder Willowbrook built the first model, the TC108G, but it was expensive and only seventeen examples were built in three years. Production ceased in 1957 when Alvis, having bought the Graber rights two years earlier, struck a deal with Park Ward to build the cars at a more reasonable cost.
The resultant new TD21 was announced in October 1958, benefitting from a strengthened chassis, sharp styling and increased interior space. It received excellent press, Autocar calling it “one of the most enchanting owner-driver cars imaginable”. Initially power output was 104bhp, increasing to 115bhp for 1959 cars from the straight six engine. A Series II version was launched in July 1962, distinguishable by slightly reworked panels, recessed fog lamps in place of the air vents and aluminium door frames, while all round disc brakes became standard, as did a five speed ZF gearbox. Wire wheels could be specified, also reclining seats. This absolutely stunning example in Shell Grey metallic has had just two previous owners – Mr. A J Wildin from Stoke on Trent and W B Johnson who was the original purchaser. It has now however been in the same family ownership since 2009 and it then underwent a ground up, full body restoration which was completed in 2014. This was meticulously undertaken by Holloway Classic Cars of Brackley, Northants and overseen by the owner who wanted to bring the car back to life, keeping it as original as possible but ensuring it had the best spec to make the most comfortable and reliable journey combined with the Alvis performance history. A 2000 mile tour of Spain and France on completion proved its capabilities. Extensive restoration documentation and photos can be seen on file. Every system and component was fully dismantled and totally reconditioned or renewed if required. Where possible components were sourced from marque specialist Red Triangle. The engine was fully rebuilt, balanced and updated to TE21 spec with unleaded conversion by Chesman Engineering. The stainless steel exhaust system and its gearbox were updated to ZF S5-17 from a TE21, rebuilt by Alex Mc Donald, Coopercraft. The car benefits from front disc brakes and delightfully, it has a Holloway electric power steering conversion. Also fitted is a Kenlowe electric radiator cooling fan, electric fuel pump and halogen headlamps. This fabulous British sports tourer has a new hood which is bespoke grey mohair cloth with extra insulation for noise and temperature control. The interior is Oxblood Red Connolly Leather (old stock tracked down) with matching wool carpets and an extra set of wool mats. There are tinted sun visors and reclining front seats, complemented by interior courtesy lamps. A classic period radio is fitted and updated with FM reception and iPod connection which is situated in the passenger glove box and there is also an electric aerial fitted. The car also has a bespoke red leather toolbox and spares kit, half tonneau which is bespoke in grey fabric and also two hood rear covers in red leather and grey fabric. Also to note, it comes with an original owner's manual, copies of the 1960 factory completion document, spares catalogue and an old magazine advertisement and TD21 Motor Trader 1960 service guide. This is probably one of the finest examples of this truly stunning and elegant model from the Golden era of British motoring and workmanship and really must be seen to be fully appreciated."