Alvis Speed 25

[2] Two electric petrol pumps fed the three SU carburettors, which were protected by a substantial air filter.

The cars were supplied in chassis form and firms such as Cross & Ellis (standard tourer) Charlesworth (standard saloon and Drop Head Coupé) as well as Vanden Plas, Lancefield, Offord and others would fit open touring or saloon car bodies.

With its sporty low slung aspect, all-synchro gearbox, independent front suspension and servo-assisted brakes, this was a fast, reliable and beautifully made car, although at almost £1000 it was not cheap.

Later models featured increased chassis boxing, and to reduce the car’s weight Alvis cut numerous holes in the chassis box sections, which was also a solution tried less successfully earlier in the decade by Mercedes-Benz when confronting the same challenge with their enormously heavy Mercedes-Benz SSKL.

[3] From the show the press reported the 4.3-litre four-door sports saloon to have "a most imposing front with very large headlamps, fog and pass lights, and post horns.

Speed 25 engine 1939 showing new induction system and special hammer for knock-off hubs
4.3-litre 4-door Tourer by Vanden Plas
Profile: 1938 Drophead Coupé by Charlesworth
Standard short-chassis 4-door saloon by Charlesworth , 1939