1953 Allard K3 Roadster

Sydney Allard introduced his K-3 at the 1952 London Motor Show. The elegant body sat atop a twin-tube steel chassis that had a wheelbase of 100 inches. The front axle was a semi-independent swing axle configuration with a DeDion rear axle and inboard-mounted Lockheed drum brakes. The handcrafted body was constructed from alloy which greatly reduced the vehicle's overall weight and improved its performance. The bench seat could accommodate two, possibly three adults.

The Allard cars were known for their performance and sport-inspired style. The Allard K3 was no different. It was given many performance and unique features such as dual fuel tans in the rear fenders. This allowed for more luggage room in the trunk. The engine's varied, as many of the cars were delivered without engines, allowing the customers to choose what was to lay under the hood. Most were powered by Cadillac engines, though a few opted for a Chrysler Hemi unit.

Of the 62 Allard K-3s constructed, 57 were sent to Europe.

This 1953 Allard K-3 Roadster was offered for sale at the 2007 RM Auctions held in Amelia Island, Florida. It was offered without reserve and estimated to sell between $75,000 - $100,000. Power comes from a 331 cubic-inch Chrysler 'Hemi' V8 engine with twin four-barrel carburetors which helped drive horsepower to 325.

Since new, this car has been treated to a complete body-off restoration which included a bare-metal repaint back to its original Royal Blue color. The interior is Connolly hide finished in Claret color.

At the auction, this very rare car with a Chrysler power plant sold for double the estimated value. This car is a true, authentic sports machine, with its gracefully styled, lightweight body to its potent powerplant. Its recent restoration means this car will be a welcome entrant at many concours and events worldwide. It is a versatile vehicle with a cloth top that can be closed to protect the driver and passenger from the elements. At the auction, this car found a new, enthusiastic owner for a selling price of $181,500.

In 2009, it was again offered for sale, this time at the Gooding & Company Pebble Beach Auction. It was estimated to sell for $175,000 - $225,000. As bidding came to a close, the lot had been sold for $132,000, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2010