1934 Alvis Speed 20 SB Cross & Ellis Tourer
- Colour
- Green
The 1934 Alvis Speed 20 SB, chassis 11337, is notable as an example of the first production car to feature an all-synchromesh gearbox, combined with independent front suspension — making it among Britain's most technically advanced vehicles of its era. Bodied by Cross & Ellis as a Tourer, it is one of only 41 built in that configuration and the sole known North American survivor. Delivered new to Norfolk, England, it later crossed to the United States where it was actively raced before a comprehensive restoration in New Zealand returned it to exceptional condition.
Ownership
- —Auction saleSold US$159,500
- 1934 → 1959Private saleMartin Hodsonfull documentation
Original purchaser, acquired the car new in Norfolk, England through the dispatching dealer Mann Egerton.
- 1959 → 1961Private saleG.B. Pearcepartial documentation
Based in Hampshire; held the car for approximately two years before selling it to a buyer in the United States.
- 1961 → 1973Private saleAl Chamberspartial documentation
Resident of Powell, Ohio; first American owner of the vehicle.
- 1973 →Private saleRoy R. Tauschfull documentation
Based in Novelty, Ohio; actively campaigned the car in vintage motorsport events. His ownership and racing activities were documented in an Alvis club newsletter and an automotive press article.
- → 2006InheritanceTausch familypartial documentation
Following Roy Tausch's death, the family kept the car in storage until it was located by a subsequent acquirer in 2006.
- 2006 →Private saleJohn Grahampartial documentation
Found the car in stored condition with low recorded mileage and arranged a thorough restoration in New Zealand by Errol and Rod Tempero, with emphasis on period-correct authenticity.
Competition
- 19771977 U.S. Vintage Grand PrixDriver: Roy R. Tausch
Held at Watkins Glen; Tausch's participation was subsequently written up in an Alvis club newsletter and referenced in a piece by journalist Dennis Simanaitis.
- —Watkins Glen vintage racingDriver: Roy R. Tausch
One of several circuits where Tausch campaigned the car during the 1970s vintage racing period.
- —Mid-Ohio vintage racingDriver: Roy R. Tausch
Part of Tausch's vintage circuit programme alongside events at Watkins Glen and Nelson Ledges.
- —Nelson Ledges vintage racingDriver: Roy R. Tausch
One of the venues at which Tausch regularly competed with the car during his ownership.
Maintenance & restoration
- —RestorationErrol and Rod Tempero
Comprehensive restoration carried out in New Zealand with a priority on period-correct accuracy while also improving drivability. The original engine was overhauled to factory specifications, and both chassis and bodywork were authentically refurbished. Interior colour was changed from green to fawn and wheels repainted silver, deviating from the original specification.
Work was commissioned by John Graham after the car was found in complete but unroadworthy condition with low recorded mileage.
Are you the owner of this car?
This car's public record is built from its auction and competition history. Register your ownership and privately add your own records to make it a verified Legacy Metrics passport — provenance that backs your car's value at sale and gives your insurer evidence to price against. Roy reviews and verifies every registration personally.