The esteemed British brand Alvis experienced a renaissance in the past decade, revealing plans to reintroduce “continuation” models of original pre- and post-war Alvis cars. Some of these vehicles utilize parts that have been meticulously preserved since the original company ceased operations in 1967. The latest addition to Alvis’ continuation lineup is the post-war Graber Drophead convertible, with only two units slated for production in 2024.
Additionally, the company will revive the pre-war Lancefield model, marking a record year for production for the modern Alvis company. Among the notable models in the continuation series are the Vanden Plas, Bertelli, Park Ward, and Graber Super Coupe. Graber, a renowned Swiss coachbuilder, played a pivotal role in crafting bodies for Alvis’ chassis during the 1950s and ’60s, including the Graber Drophead and Graber Super Coupe.
Today, the Alvis team meticulously recreates these iconic bodies using an original archive comprising over 25,000 drawings and 23,000 car records. Employing traditional methods such as hammering and metal rolling ensures that the modern builds remain faithful to the originals. Under the hood, Alvis continues its legacy with a 3.0-liter inline-6 powertrain featuring original engine blocks manufactured almost six decades ago.
Enhanced with modern technologies like fuel injection and electric engine management, along with a higher compression ratio and CNC machining for tighter tolerances, the engine delivers 32% more power than the original, boasting a rating of 172 hp while meeting emissions standards. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, the engine propels the car to a top speed of 120 mph.
The company conducts pre-delivery test drives on the same roads in Warwickshire, U.K., where the original Alvis models were tested. Inside, the cabin exudes luxury with Connolly leather trim and wool cloth adorning the headliner of the three-layer convertible top.
For those seeking modern comforts, options such as automatic transmissions, power steering, climate control, and audio systems can be incorporated. Pricing for an Alvis continuation car begins at $370,000, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to own a piece of automotive history with timeless elegance and performance.