1957 Alvis TC108G

In 1955, Mulliners of Birmingham informed Alvis that they planned to concentrate on their Standard-Triumph contract work, and Tickfords came under the control of Aston Martin. This affected the supply of both saloon and drophead bodies for the Grey Lady, but the company had already commenced negotiations with Carrosserie Graber, and it was decided to adapt their TC coupe design and have it built under licence in the UK as the TC108G. The engineering was mainly identical to the Grey Lady, with a 3-litre, I-6 OHV engine, 4-speed manual gearbox, front coil springs and a live rear axle with leaf springs, but the 2+2 body was very different.

In 1956 Alvis subcontracted the construction of the body to Willowbrook of Loughborough, which used bucks and jigs despatched from Switzerland. A further 22 chassis were coachbuilt by Graber for their clientele. The Willowbrook cars were all fixed-head coupes, and rear accommodation was best suited to children although one Swiss customer apparently specified the replacement of the back seat by a compartment for his dog, complete with a built-in lead. British built cars had a GRP instrument panel and Lucas headlamps instead of Marchal. The top speed was 103mph, and the price was £2,776, which rose to £3,451 by early 1957, ensuring that the TC108G would be a rare sight on British roads. The last example was made in 1958, before the launch of the TD21.

To say that the TC108G is exclusive is akin to suggesting that a Testa Rossa is rather quick; the combination of Alvis engineering with exquisitely understated coachwork makes for one of the most memorable cars of its era.

Many of the challenges facing a TC108G owner are similar to those of Alvis TC21/100 ownership, such as chassis rust, overheating, and a tired suspension. Additional issues will be restoring the very rare coachwork, as it is believed that no two Swiss-built models are wholly alike.

The Alvis TC108G marked the beginning of the last generation of Alvis cars, where looks that would appeal to the European jet set cloaked long-established running gear. And as for the limited space for luggage, that should be sent ahead by train.

Alternatives to the Alvis TC108G ranged from the Bentley Continental ‘S’ and the Aston Martin DB2/4, to the Jaguar XK140 fixed-head coupe, the Jensen 541R, and the Bristol 404.