From its launch in 1950 to its demise in 1967, the Alvis Three
Litre enjoyed a deserved reputation for effortless performance,
exceptional surefootedness and stability, a high degree of driver
friendliness, and irreproachable quality of construction. It was
considered a rather exclusive car, coming as it did from a maker
whose products always had a certain individuality. In addition,
there remained through successive models something reassuringly
traditional about its styling in both saloon and drophead forms;
while never outdated, it displayed a timeless, discreet dignity
unmoved by the more frivolous vagaries of fashion. All the while,
in the background but ready to serve when called upon, was the
Alvis works, whose concern for its cars and their owners was
exemplary.
Throughout production, the Three Litre was based on the same
chassis and was powered by the same engine. This was a handsome and
efficient short-stroke six-cylinder, conceived in order to provide
the driver with ample power over a very wide rev range. Starting
with an output of 83bhp in the early TA21, this robust unit was
progressively developed to supply 150bhp in its final TF21 form
while retaining the turbine smoothness, reliability and lack of
temperament that it had become celebrated for. It was perfectly
matched to its chassis and running gear, and those who have driven
a Three Litre at speed will find the dynamic qualities of the
contemporary rivals from Bentley or Jaguar rather less
likeable.
This book opens with an exposition of the background that led to
the companys introduction of the Three Litre in 1950. Then comes a
detailed technical analysis of the TA21, covering all aspects of
the chassis, running gear, engine and transmission. This sets the
scene for the chapters which follow, on the short-lived TB21 sports
tourer, the TC21 and the uprated TC21/100, the Graber-inspired
TC108G, the outstandingly handsome TD21 Series I and II, the TE21
and the TF21.
Each of these receives comprehensive treatment, including
differences from previous models, production changes and full
chassis number number listings, along with notes on famous owners
and screen appearances. The author provides extensive information
on the coachbuilders who supplied Three Litre bodies, including
Mulliners, Tickford, Graber, Willowbrook and Park Ward, and there
are chapters devoted to the Alvis-powered Healey G Series sports
car, the aborted Issigonis-designed Alvis TA350, and the ownership
and use of Alvis Three Litre models today.
Five outstanding examples of the cars have been specially
photographed for this book and are featured in some 70 colour
shots. There are also more than 140 black-and-white illustrations
drawn from archives as well as from Alvis sales and publicity
material. Devoted exclusively to the Three Litre, this book offers
an in-depth examination of these excellent cars to provide a store
of information for the many owners who care passionately about
them, and serve as a tribute to the men who made them.
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