1932 Alvis Speed 20

1932 Alvis Speed 20 SA Vanden Plas Tourer – Original Engine, Early Spec, Tim Walker Restoration

Desirable early ‘flater-rad’ Speed 20 SA with original engine and Vanden Plas coachwork. Over £73,000 in expert restoration by Tim Walker Restorations.

A Known Car From New – Chassis 9874’s Traced Provenance

This Speed 20 SA, chassis 9874, was delivered new to Chas. Follett Ltd on 28th June 1932 and first registered as GY 6949 the following month. Wearing Vanden Plas Tourer coachwork (body no. 1824), it remained in London until the outbreak of war. During the 1950s, it passed to Lieutenant Commander Clinkard, who overhauled the car mechanically and rewired it in the late 1970s. The next owner, John Horne Esq., undertook retrimming and a repaint in the 1980s, followed by custodians including Mrs Caroline Hobbs—who loaned the car to Brooklands Museum—and Anthony Paskell Esq., who commissioned further reconditioning from marque experts Red Triangle.

Inspirational 

GY 6949 retains its original engine, number 10326, which was fully rebuilt by Tim Walker Restorations under current ownership. In addition to the engine work, extensive attention has been paid to the gearbox, clutch, brakes, steering, suspension, and carburation—ensuring the car remains mechanically strong and road-ready. The brightwork has been re-plated, with a new hood and frame sourced to replace the lost Brooklands-era item. New carpets and a tailored tonneau complete the work, all overseen by marque specialists with over £73,000 invested across 15 years

1932 alvis VDP

alvis VDP carburettors

 1933 Aston Martin Team Car replica

alvis VDP

 1933 Aston Martin Team Car Replica

wheel

 1933 Aston Martin Team Car Replica

Coachwork by Vanden Plas – Body No. 1824

The car wears its original Vanden Plas Tourer coachwork—numbered 1824—finished when new in Grey with Blue painted underwings. It remains beautifully proportioned and retains the distinct low-slung stance that characterised early Speed 20 SAs. Importantly, this example is from the sought-after ‘flater-rad’ series, giving it an authentic early 1930s appearance with lighter visual presence.

Capable Long-Distance Performance – Pre-War Motoring at its Best

While firmly rooted in pre-war design, this Speed 20SA remains highly usable thanks to well-maintained and uprated mechanicals. With its smooth six-cylinder engine and precise steering, it offers a satisfying drive whether at VSCC events, long-distance tours, or Sunday outings. As a known and maintained example, it’s ideal for a collector looking for a ready-to-go Alvis with provenance and practical touring ability.

GY 6949 offers a blend of early-spec charm, originality, and expert restoration rarely seen in pre-war British motoring. With a known history, matching engine, and coachwork by Vanden Plas, it’s a compelling opportunity for the experienced enthusiast. Contact Tom Hardman Limited to arrange a viewing or discuss your interest further