1959 Alvis TD 21 Saloon

Description

Founded by T G John in Coventry in 1919, Alvis were highly regarded for their well-engineered automobiles that successfully married high performance with luxury until the demise of the car divison in 1967 – although production of military vehicles continues to the present day. The TD21 unveiled at the Earls Court Motor Show in October 1958, a logical development of the earlier TC21 with styling influenced by the stylish Graber-bodied TC108/G. The Swiss coachbuilder may have provided the general style of the new TD21, but Park Ward were responsible for building the handsome saloons and exclusive drophead coupes. Under the skin, the TD21 used an improved version of the familiar box-section chassis first seen with the TA21, employing independent front suspension by coil springs and wishbones. Lockheed disc brakes up front became the standard, while other mechanical improvements included Lockheed hydraulic operation on the Borg and Beck clutch. Both manual and automatic transmissions were available, while the smooth 3-litre six-cylinder engine was capable of propelling the model to a top speed of 104mph. The TD21’s interior was significantly improved, offering more space, a return to the traditional walnut-veneer dash and full Connolly Vaumol leather upholstery. Options included wire-spoked wheels and a Smith’s Radiomobile radio. Alvis built 784 first series TD21s, followed by a further 289 second series with Dunlop disc brakes all round and revised front and rear styling. The company slogan, “Master of the King’s Highway”, sums up how the Alvis was regarded in its heyday and they remain a coveted marque today with a strong presence in Australia backed by a thriving club scene.