Alvis Speed 20/25 Vanden Plas Tourer
The Alvis Speed 20 (1932-1936) and its successor the Speed 25 (1936-1940) represent the golden age of Alvis motor car production. These were sophisticated, fast, and beautifully engineered cars that placed Alvis firmly among the elite British manufacturers alongside Bentley, Lagonda, and Invicta.
The Speed 20, introduced in 1932, featured a 2.5-litre overhead-valve straight-six engine with triple SU carburetors that produced approximately 87 bhp. The chassis incorporated several advanced features for the era, including an all-synchromesh gearbox (Alvis was among the first manufacturers to offer this), servo-assisted brakes, and a flexible yet rigid chassis frame. The car was available exclusively as a rolling chassis, with coachwork provided by the customer's chosen bodybuilder.
Vanden Plas was among the most popular coachbuilders for the Speed 20 and 25, creating elegant four-seat tourers with flowing wings, cut-away doors, and a rakish windscreen angle that conveyed speed even at rest. Cross & Ellis, Charlesworth, and Mayfair were also frequent choices.
The Speed 25, launched in 1936, featured an enlarged 3.6-litre engine producing approximately 110 bhp. This additional power, combined with improved chassis engineering including an independent front suspension option, made the Speed 25 one of the fastest touring cars available in Britain before the war. Road tests of the period recorded speeds of over 90 mph, with acceleration that was competitive with more expensive machinery.
Alvis cars were notable for their engineering quality. Captain G.T. Smith-Clarke, Alvis's chief engineer, was regarded as one of the finest automotive engineers of the inter-war period, and his cars reflected a commitment to innovation and precision that earned Alvis a reputation for mechanical excellence.
The Speed 20/25 models were popular with sporting motorists who appreciated the combination of performance, reliability, and refinement. They competed successfully in rallies and trials, and their robust construction made them suitable for continental touring at sustained high speeds.
Total production of the Speed 20 and Speed 25 was relatively modest — approximately 1,680 cars across all variants — ensuring their rarity today. These cars are highly regarded by the vintage car community and are regular participants in events such as the Mille Miglia retrospective and various concours d'elegance.
The Alvis Speed 20/25 represents a particularly attractive proposition for collectors: genuine pre-war sporting performance with parts support from the active Alvis Owner Club, in a car that can be enjoyed on rallies and tours.
As with all pre-war coachbuilt cars, body condition is the primary concern. Ash body frames can suffer from rot, and aluminium or steel panels may have corrosion. Check structural timbers thoroughly. The mechanical components are well-supported by the Alvis Owner Club, which maintains an excellent spares service. The straight-six engine is robust and reliable when properly maintained. Check for correct matching of chassis, engine, and body through the Alvis Register. Pre-war cars require sympathetic maintenance and regular use. Vanden Plas Tourer bodies are the most sought-after and command premium prices. Verify coachwork authenticity — rebodied cars exist. The all-synchromesh gearbox is a delight but check for worn synchro rings. Brake servo system needs regular attention.
Speed 20 produced 1932-1936 (2.5L engine). Speed 25 produced 1936-1940 (3.6L engine). Sold as rolling chassis for bespoke coachwork. Combined production approximately 1,680 units. Built at Alvis factory in Coventry. Featured advanced all-synchromesh gearbox. Coachwork by Vanden Plas, Cross & Ellis, Charlesworth, Mayfair, and others.