History

Alvis Car History

Alvis cars were introduced in 1920 with the 10/30 model.

The most famous vintage Alvis is the 12/50, produced from 1923, which was a successful sporting and racing car. The Alvis Front-Wheel-Drive (1928 to 1929), the first production FWD car in the world, was also a successful racing car.

During the 1930s the Alvis Car became a luxury sports car with the introduction of the 6 cylinder Speed 20, Speed 25 and 4.3-litre models. Saloon cars, such as the Crested Eagle, and the smaller 4 cylinder cars such as the Firefly and Firebird were also available.

After World War II the Alvis 3 litre models were produced, the most famous being the Grey Lady (TC21/100) and the Graber bodied models. Alvis cars continued to be manufactured until 1967, when companies were encouraged to merge in order to compete in world markets. Alvis and Rover combined because of their interest in military products - Rover's Land Rover and Alvis' range of military equipment and vehicles.

This signalled the end of manufacture of Alvis cars, but not the end of the passion they generate in their owners and admirers. Although it is over forty years since the last Alvis car left the works there is still a strong following for this quality marque.

Alvis Car Club History

The Alvis Car Club is an Australian club, with members worldwide, which is committed to the enjoyment of owning, restoring, maintaining and driving Alvis cars.

The Club was established in September 1950 for the purpose of encouraging an interest in Alvis Cars; holding competitive, sporting and social events; and preserving the Marque. These aims still hold true, although Club events these days tend to be more social than sporting.

Alvibatics, the Club's magazine, is one of the oldest Alvis magazines in the world. It keeps members informed of Club activities; presents technical advice on the restoration and maintenance of Alvis cars; offers a forum for the sale or exchange of cars or parts; and provides interesting, provocative and stimulating stories of Alvis cars and drivers.

The Club has an extensive knowledge of the history of Australian Alvis cars, which it keeps up-to-date and makes available to its members. The strong, active membership is interested and supportive of each other's projects making technical skill and parts available where possible. Club members enthusiastically participate in regular outings and activities, driving and enjoying their Alvis cars.