You know a car is special when it lives beyond metal and paint. The 1936 Alvis 4.3 Litre Sports Saloon by Bertelli isn’t just rare, it’s one-of-one. Commissioned by Swedish racing icon Henken Widengren, this masterpiece started as a show chassis and evolved into a rolling example of automotive art.
Born From Innovation and Bold Vision
Displayed initially at the 1935 Paris and Scottish Motor Shows, the Alvis chassis turned heads even before receiving its coachwork. Widengren, who knew speed and spectacle, asked Bertelli of Middlesex to build something extraordinary.
The result? A streamlined “Airline” silhouette with a sloping fastback roof that rivaled the best of French styling. Bertelli produced only five bodies for Alvis. This was the only one for a 4.3 Litre chassis.
Crafted for Grace and Velocity
The car carries Alvis’ original 4.3-liter straight-six engine paired with its matching chassis and body. Output was strong enough to keep pace with pre-war contemporaries while offering Gran Turismo comfort.
Designed for elegance yet engineered for performance, the Bertelli-bodied Sports Saloon could tour or compete with equal poise. Even in motion, it looks like it’s gliding through time.
A Life of Rarity, Restoration, and Recognition
After its early fame and wartime storage, the car changed hands among collectors and enthusiasts who ensured its legacy remained alive. From Sweden to England, it journeyed through ownership and partial restoration before finding its place with Red Triangle, premier specialists in Alvis restoration.
The result was a full rejuvenation that respected originality and elevated presentation. This car even appeared in the Royal Automobile Club’s rotunda, a fitting stage for its elegance.
Details That Tell Stories
Everything from the body lines to the interior echoes craftsmanship. This Alvis wears its history visibly, with pride. Motor Sport magazine featured it in 1948, and its reputation endured.
Unlike mass-produced classics, its story is intimate: the name of its driver, the hand-formed body panels, the decades of care, all part of the experience.
Summary
The 1936 Alvis 4.3 Litre Sports Saloon by Bertelli is far more than a vintage vehicle. It’s a narrative told through curves and credentials. With its coachbuilt distinction, race-derived character, and fully restored presence, it stands as a crown jewel in Alvis history.
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications, provenance, and restoration details reflect available listing information and may vary slightly.
Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
