Started in 1917, Alvis began automobile production in 1920 and continued into the early days of World War II, resuming production in 1946\\. The first postwar Alvis had an overhead valve, 2993 cc inline six-cylinder engine, independent front suspension (something Alvis had pioneered in the early 1930s along with a fully synchronized 4-speed gearbox) and hydraulic brakes. By 1958, the series had developed into the TD21\\. An evolution of the TC108G, it had bodywork based on a design by Graber in Switzerland but made by Park Ward in England, 115 brake horsepower from the straight-six, a four-speed gearbox borrowed from Austin-Healey, a front anti roll bar and front disc brakes. Suspension, like previous Alvises, was independent at the front with coil springs and a live rear axle with leaf springs. A particularly elegant, luxurious and expensive car, the Alvis was and still is a fine alternative to the Jaguars, Daimlers, Rolls-Royces and Bentleys that are so popular with enthusiasts. With just over 1,000 built, they are quite rare as well.