From the estate of the late John Burnell
1929 Alvis TG 12/50hp Atlantic Saloon

• Two owners from new
• Present ownership since 1963
• Unrestored and highly original
• Requires recommissioning

Beginning in 1922 and using the 10/30 as a starting point, Alvis's newly appointed Chief Engineer Captain G T Smith-Clarke and Chief Designer W M Dunn created the car that effectively established the firm's reputation: the immortal 12/50. The latter was powered by a new overhead-valve engine of 1,496cc, and on its competition debut at Brooklands in 1923 secured a legendary victory in the 200-Mile event. The production version went on sale later that same year priced at £550. Sporting coachwork predominated on the early chassis, with tourers and saloons appearing as time went on. If not over-burdened by weighty coachwork, most were capable of around 75-80mph. A 1,598cc engine became available in 1924 together with front-wheel brakes, while a four-speed 'crash' gearbox was used throughout the model's life. From 1926 onwards the 12/50 benefited from a significantly stronger platform chassis.

A model of exceptional importance for Alvis, the 12/50 was briefly superseded by the front-wheel drive models but swiftly reinstated, remaining in production until 1932, by which time it was being built with a new 1,645cc engine. Well designed and well built, the Alvis 12/50 was robust and easily maintained, qualities that only encouraged enthusiastic appreciation among its owners. This essential durability, plus the fact that the factory continued to offer support until it ceased car production in 1967, has made for a relatively high survival rate. Today the Alvis 12/50 is one of the most highly sought after of pre-war sporting cars, with an enthusiastic following worldwide.

Carrying the factory's own four-door Atlantic saloon coachwork, this Alvis TG 12/5hp was purchased new by one William Donnet and comes with the original factory guarantee. The car was acquired from Mr Donnet by Alvis Register stalwart, the late John Burnell, on 6th March 1963 for £20. The accompanying file contains numerous old MoT certificates, old tax discs, petrol coupons, a wiring diagram and a copy handbook together with many photographs of the car from the 1960s. 'VR 859' remains highly original, even retaining its original interior complete with Ladies and Gents companion sets and trunk

The Alvis was in good driving condition before being laid up due to ill health, and it is thought that only relatively minor recommissioning should be required to make it useable again.