Alvis - Speed 20 (1940)

Discover the allure of the Alvis Speed 20, an iconic 1940s British sports car that has captured the imagination of classic car enthusiasts for decades. If you’re wondering about its current market positioning, Alvis Speed 20 price trends vary widely depending on provenance, finishing, and restoration level – but the car’s enduring heritage is undeniable. Below you’ll find a deep dive into its specs, depreciation patterns, and how it compares to contemporaries in the vintage luxury segment.

Key Specifications

• Model year: 1940 (original debut) – re‑introduced in the early 1940s as a streamlined sports coupé.
• Engine: 3.2 L (3,200 cc) 6‑cylinder Inline‑6, overhead valve; produces 100 hp (approximately 75 kW) at 4,200 rpm.
• Transmission: 3‑speed manual gearbox with synchromesh on top two ratios.
• Drive: Rear‑wheel drive.
• Weight: Approximately 1,200 kg (2,645 lb) dry.
• Dimensions: Length: 4.4 m (4 ft 6 in) – Width: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in) – Wheelbase: 2.55 m (8 ft 4 in).
• Body style: Coupé with a distinctive “S” shaped bonnet and crisp, low-slung roofline.
• Fuel type: Petrol (gasoline).
• Performance: 0‑60 mph in roughly 10 seconds; top speed around 120 mph (193 km/h).
• Brakes: Drum brakes on both front and rear wheels.
• Suspension: Independent front suspension (double wishbones), beam axle at rear.
• Extras: Production models often featured leather upholstery, a vinyl roof, and a simplistic yet elegant interior.

Depreciation Insight

Unlike modern mass‑produced vehicles, the Alvis Speed 20 depreciation curve reflects the collector market’s unique dynamics. In the immediate years after purchase or restoration, owners typically experience:

• First year: 15‑20% drop in market value as the car enters the public domain.
• Second to third year: 5‑10% decline annually, contingent on maintenance and storage.
• After five years: The car often stabilizes, with values influenced more by condition and provenance than pure time decay.

Long‑term appreciation is common for well‑maintained examples, especially those that retain original parts or are linked to a notable owner. This makes the Speed 20 a compelling study in collectibles where careful stewardship can reverse the typical depreciation trend.

What Is a 1940 Alvis Speed 20 Worth?

When you ask “what is a 1940 Alvis Speed 20 worth?”