">
2006 Melbourne International Motor Show Auction
Lot
27

1924 Alvis SA 12/50 Ducksback

PASSED IN

Passed In

Specifications

Engine 4 cylinder 1.5 litre
Gearbox 3 speed manual
Body Work 'Ducksback' Roadster
Colour Polished aluminium b

Description

This lot is no longer available

The 12/50 was the car that really marked the arrival of Alvis as a serious and successful carmaker, and it set the standard for the remainder of the company's car production.

With its new pushrod overhead valve 1500cc four-cylinder engine, the 12/50 is the very quintessence of the vintage sports car. The model was produced over a long period, but discontinued in 1929 when the firm pinned its faith on the front-wheel drive models.

When these failed to win wide acceptance, the 12/50 was hastily re-introduced, and is believed to have saved the firm. Most of the early examples had overtly sporting coachwork, typically the classic ducks-back or a rakish 4 seat touring body.