1948 Allard M-Type Drophead Coupe

The early Allard Special's used lightweight construction and a relatively powerful American V8 engine. After World War II, Allard progressed from special builder to a motor manufacturer. His post-war cars continued to employ the same formula of lightweight construction and an abundance of American V8 power. It helped Allard establish a formidable competition record in the immediate post-war years. Although a relatively small shop, Sydney himself finished 3rd at LeMans in a J2 sports racer and won outright at the Monte Carlo Rally in a P-Type saloon.

The Allard M-Type was introduced in 1947 and was a more civilized version of the L Model. It had Allard's trademark independently suspended 'split' front axle and transverse-leaf rear end. The chassis was 6 inches longer than the K-Type, providing extra room to accommodate two rear passenger seats. The M was given Ford components, including the 3622cc flathead V8. Between 1947 and 1950, approximately 500 examples were produced.

This M-Series example was completed at the Clapham works in 1948. It was originally sold in London to a Mr. Thomas Oliver Wacher of Canterbury, Kent, England. The car would remain in Mr. Wacher's care until 1972, at which point he transferred ownership to his son-in-law, Mr. J.W. Mannington of Marden. The M-Series stayed in the Mannington family for the next 16 years, until passing it to Brian Sharp in 1988. Mr. Sharp had the car restored over the next several years to its original factory specifications. The work included building a new ash frame for the bodywork, and rebuilding all mechanical components. The current owner purchased the restored M-Series in 1998. Soon after, it was brought to the United States.

It is believed that the car has been driven just 5,000 miles since its restoration was completed.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2016