Car of the Day #20

1924 Alvis 12/50 200 Mile Race Car

From its founding in 1919, the Coventry-based marque Alvis had competed in motor sport.  Real racing success did not come though until the advent of the Alvis 12/50 model, introduced in 1923.

In that year Alvis Works driver Maurice Harvey won the 200 miles race at Brooklands in one of three special racing 12/50s, averaging over 93 mph.

The competition 12/50 example on display at the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court from 5-7 September was driven by racing driver and aero-engine designer, Major Frank Halford in period.  He competed at motor race meetings throughout the UK, with this Alvis ultimately being used a Dunlop’s tyre-testing car at Brooklands.