Description
Alvis TA 21 Drophead | 1952
Highlights:
- Classic 1950s British cabriolet with 6-cylinder engine
- Verified mileage of 118,500 km
- Mechanically in good condition with valid inspection
- Body and interior in good condition
- Retains its original appearance without technical upgrades
The seller offers for sale this 1952 Alvis TA 21 Drophead, a rare British cabriolet that combines elegant post-war styling with refined engineering. Powered by a 2,993cc six-cylinder engine, the TA 21 delivers a smooth driving experience typical of early 1950s grand tourers. The vehicle has covered a verified 118,500 kilometres and has been maintained to a high standard throughout its lifetime.
The Alvis TA 21 was introduced in 1950 as a successor to the TA 14. Built by Alvis Cars Ltd in Coventry, the TA 21 marked a shift toward more refined and powerful touring vehicles for discerning clientele. It was powered by a newly developed straight-six engine that delivered enhanced smoothness and performance compared to the four-cylinder unit in its predecessor.
Alvis was one of the more exclusive British marques of the time, producing vehicles in limited quantities with an emphasis on quality and mechanical excellence. The TA 21 came in both saloon and drophead coupé forms, with coachbuilding handled by specialists such as Tickford. The drophead version, like the one offered here, is particularly desirable due to its open-top appeal and elegant proportions.
A hallmark of the TA 21 was its independent front suspension, which improved ride quality and handling over earlier models. The interior appointments were typically high-grade, featuring wood veneers, fine leather, and attention to detail that rivalled competitors like Bentley and Lagonda. Despite its understated appearance, the TA 21 was a high-end vehicle that reflected post-war optimism and a renewed focus on luxury.
Today, the Alvis TA 21 is appreciated by collectors for its balanced mix of British charm, rarity, and driveability. Surviving examples in authentic and sound condition—especially the drophead versions—are increasingly difficult to find, making this well-preserved 1952 car an attractive proposition for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Moselle department, France.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a French registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
