
Toby Wilson
Head of Department
LOT 431
1933 Alvis Silver Eagle 16.95hp SA Sports Saloon Coachwork by Charlesworth Registration no. KY 4232 Chassis no. 10301
Despite the somewhat conservative image Alvis has today, the Coventry manufacturer produced some technically innovative cars in the inter-war period, pioneering front-wheel-drive technology and championing small-capacity, high-performance engines. Engineer T G John had founded the Alvis company in 1919 when he acquired the rights to an automobile engine and with it the brand name of its aluminium pistons – 'Alvis'. The first Alvis car - the 10/30hp - appeared in 1920.
"An 80mph car, in which refinement and high performance have been combined" was how The Motor magazine summed up the new 16.95hp Alvis Silver Eagle SA sports saloon in December 1929. Newly introduced that year, the Silver Eagle was powered by an overhead-valve six-cylinder engine displacing 2,148cc and equipped with triple SU carburettors.
The vendor advises us that this example is in outstandingly good condition and that it drives beautifully. There is photographic evidence of it having had a completely new ash body frame fitted in recent years, a bare-metal re-spray being undertaken at the same time. The interior is described as totally original, showing few signs of wear and in exceptionally fine condition. The brightwork likewise is said to be excellent, as are the mechanicals.
Accompanying the car is an impressively extensive history file contained within three lever-arch files and consisting of invoices from mainly Alvis specialists.
Vendor Score Total: 80 /100
Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.
Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well
EXTERIOR TOTAL: 20 /25
Body Work: 4
Paint: 4
Glass: 4
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 4
Wheels/Tyres: 4
RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 16 /20
Gearbox/Clutch: 4
Axles: 4
Suspension: 4
Brakes: 4
INTERIOR TOTAL: 16 /20
Seats: 4
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 4
Headlining: 4
Trim: 4
ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 8 /10
Main components: 4
Ancillary components: 4
ENGINE TOTAL: 16 /20
Starting: 4
Running: 4
Under Bonnet: 4
Mechanical components: 4
Car History File: 4
















































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