1951 Allard K2 Roadster

This 1951 Allard K2 Roadster was offered for sale at the 2007 Sports and Classic Car Auction presented by The Worldwide Group, in Hilton Head Island, SC where it was estimated to sell for $80,000 - $100,000. It was part of a large collection, each being individually offered for sale without reserve. This car is powered by the correct 331 cubic-inch Cadillac OHV V8 engine which has an available 160 horsepower on tap. Also original is the three-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. It rests gently on a 106-inch wheelbase and is supported by a Ballemy split axle semi-independent front suspension with de Dion rear axle.

This car is finished in its original color of red with a matching tan parchment leather interior with competition racing seats and a five-point racing harness. It has been treated to a restoration since new.

Sydney Allard introduced the J1 just after the conclusion of World War II. They were powered by a 3.6-liter Ford V8 engine and mated to a three-speed manual gearbox. There were removable wings that could be replaced with cycle fenders which made it suitable for road or track use. Only twelve examples were ever produced.

The J1 was followed by the k1, a two-seater sports car that was produced in greater quantities and helped ensure the Allard Company's future. Following on the coat-tails of the J1 was the J2 which had a design similar to the J1. It was given several modern updates to help improve the car's performance and handling, including the replacement of the coil springs and live axle in favor of a deDion setup. The engine was moved farther back into the engine bay to better distribute the weight. Most were given Ford's side-valve V8 engine with a few being outfitted with a variety of other engines including Cadillac's pushrod V8 and Chrysler's Hemi V8.

The J2X was introduced the following year. It was basically a J2 but had its engine moved forward providing adequate cockpit room for its occupants. The final iterations of the J2 Series were the J2X LeMans and the JR; both were enclosed-body vehicles.

The racing highlight for the J2 came in 1950 at the hands of Syndey Allard and Tom Cole. The J2 was driven to a First in Class and Third overall in the prestigious and grueling 24 Hours of LeMans race.

The K2 was introduced in 1950. It had a front grille that was very similar to the Healey. There were large bumpers in the front to help in the event of a front accident. Seating was for two with a small area suitable for 'some' luggage. American power could be found under the hood including the 3.6-liter Ford as standard. Mercury, Chrysler, and Cadillac were popular options. Production of the K2 continued until 1952 with 119 examples created.

The rarity and pedigree of the Allard K2 are one of the many reasons these vehicles demand such a high sticker price at auction. They have performance, power, and style. They are suitable for driving tours, vintage racing, concours, and many other types of historical events.

On auction day this was one of the last vehicles to cross the auction block. It had an estimated value of 100,000 on the high end and carried no reserve. There was much interest in this car, and bidding reflected this desire. Bidding quickly surpassed the estimated value and finally settled at $121,000 including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2010