Alvis Automobiles | A British Classic Still Eye Catching

Alvis holds a unique place in British automotive history. Alvis is known for producing sophisticated, high-performance cars as the innovative British car company it was. So what happened to Alvis the automaker? Do Alvis cars still exist today? If so, how much does one of their cars go for? Let’s delve deep into the story of Alvis and try to understand where it lies in the present world. 

The Rise of Alvis | A Legacy of Engineering Excellence

Alvis started as a manufacturer of stationary engines and carburetors in 1919 in Coventry, England. However, under the leadership of T.G. John, the company quickly pivoted into the car business and started producing changing vehicles.

Why Was Alvis a Good Car?

Alvis cars had an exceptional reputation, and this is why: Advanced Engineering: Alvis was the first manufacturer to introduce front wheel drive in a production car, i.e. the 1928 Alvis FWD. Luxury and Performance: Unlike many brands that focused on the manufacture of inexpensive vehicles with luxury features or only speedy cars, Alvis tackled both portions of the market.

Power Motorsport Participant: Alvis cars participated and ranked in key motorsport events like Le Mans to validate their durability and performance. 

Alvis conquered WWII tanks and armored cars post war was fury further proving their engineering capabilities. 

During 1930-1940 Alvis was the market leader in Britain portraying itself as the benchmark in luxury cars just like Bentley and Rolls Royce. 

What happened to Alvis Automaker? 

There were a few events that took place that led to the demise of Alvis. Take a look at the more important timelines. 

Dilapidated during the years 1940-1960

After the World War, Alvis resumed manufacturing of cars but faced tough competition from brands like Jaguar, Aston Martin and Rolls Royce. 

The expenses per unit produced made it more challenging for Alvis to compete with mass acrylic brands. 

Rover Purchase (1965) 

In 1965 Alvis got bought out by Rover who then merged with British Leyland. 

Due to British Leyland’s bankruptcy by 1967, all of its disabilities fell on Alvis, who ceased all production of cars. 

Marketing Shift Towards Defenses 

Even after halting the production of cars, Alvis remained a recognizable name in military defense providing dozens of countries with armored vehicles. 

The brand was removed in 2004 when it was purchased by BAE Systems. Alvis as a single entity ceased to exist.

It looked like Alvis cars were going to remain a footnote in history, but that’s not the end of the tale.

Are Alvis Cars Still Manufactured?

Incredibly, yes. Alvis managed to return in what some might phrase as a “very British” way.

The Alvis Car Company was reformed in 2012 and began manufacturing “continuation models” which were based around the original designs from the 1930s to the 1960s. Every car is manufactured with the original blueprints and is hand built, but now comes with enhancements for improved reliability.

The Alvi Continuation Models consist of some of these cars

Alvis Graber Super Coupé – A Super Coupé is developed with a Graber body mounted on a chassis based on a 1960s design with a 3.0L or 4.3L inline-six engine.

Alvis Vanden Plas Tourer – Carries the traditional look, but with modern engineering during its construction.

Alvis Bertelli Sports Coupe – One of the new Alvis models that epitomizes Alvis spirit and style. Comes crafted out of England.

They are not mass produced vehicles. Each motor vehicle takes several months to build as they are made to order.

Alvis Car Pricing

Considering these cars are meticulously put together, owning an Alvis today isn’t a cheap endeavor. What model you buy as well as any changes you want made will determine the price, but here are some ball park figures: 

Model Estimated Cost

Alvis Graber Super Coupé £250,000 – £350,000

Alvis Vanden Plas Tourer £200,000 – £300,000

Alvis Bertelli Sports Coupe £275,000 – £400,000

Alvis is often priced next to Rolls Royce or Bentley, which means they become a luxury car collectors item, instead of being used for a commute. 

Pricing Justification for Alvis Cars 

There is more than one explanation as to why Alvis cars have such a steep price: 

Handcrafted Manufacturing: Each car is built individually, just like in the early days, ensuring unmatched attention to detail. 

Limited Production: The lack of mass production increases the price due to the exclusivity. 

High-Quality Materials: Modern Alvis cars use the finest materials, including handcrafted leather interiors and hand-formed aluminum bodies. 

Classic Design with Modern Tech: They may appear classic, but the modern brakes, suspension, and engine modifications allow for added trust in the car.

Is Alvis Buying Today Worth It?  

If you enjoy classic vehicles but require contemporary dependability, an Alvis continuation model makes for a perfect option. Yet, if practicality is what you are after, there’s no shortage of affordable luxury brands in the market.  

Pros of Buying an Alvis:  

✔ A unique collector’s classic that has a lineage ✔ Made with original quality ✔ Resells at a high price due to being one-of-a-kind   

Cons of Buying an Alvis:  

✖ Takes too much time to build and expensive to buy. ✖ Not suitable for everyday use. ✖ Not readily available in the market.  

Future Alvis Developments  

Alvis Car Company has managed to mark its presence in the classic car market with its massive growth. They may not return to mass manufacturing, but will most definitely keep servicing classic car enthusiasts and collectors in the UK.  

Alvis has shown that it’s possible for a legacy brand to endure decades after stopping production. Alvis will always have it’s share in the industry so long as there’s a need for handcrafted, vintage-styled cars.  

Final Thoughts  

What happened to the automaker Alvis? While the original company faded away during the 1960s, a new company has renounced the name and builds exclusive, high-end continuation models.

Does Alvis still make cars?

Yes, but only a few.

Was Alvis a good car? Yes, its luxury and engineering reputations precede it and is still valid today. 

How much does an Alvis car cost? Well, that depends on the model; expect to pay anywhere from £200,000 to £400,000 .  

For classic car lovers, Alvis is still notable as an icon of British engineering. Alvis has become appreciated by enthusiasts across the globe; whether they want to own one or take in the stunning details of its craftsmanship.