1952 Allard J2X Roadster

This car was ordered with many one-of-a-kind options by 1950 Watkins Glen Grand Prix winner Irwin Goldschmidt. These included vented brakes, a full belly pan, a rearview mirror, a housing oil cooler and large capacity gas tank. Irwin then sourced the Cadillac motor and had it modified by Mike Burrel of Detroit Racing fame. To get additional power from the motor a Detroit Racing twin carb high rise manifold was added and large bore Carter single barrel carbs mounted. A magneto replaced the standard distributor and twin SU electric fuel pumps were added. Additionally, instead of a manual transmission a Cadillac automatic was purchased and modified. In order to get the transmission to fit the Allard chassis, the long Cadillac tailpiece was removed a shorter unit from Pontiac was used. The idea behind this was that many cars did not finish races due to 'blown shifts'. This car was entered into the 1952 Sebring event. Unfortunately, Irwin blew the automatic transmission the day of the event. The car next appeared later that year at the Duryea Hill climb which was the last time Goldschmidt raced the car. It disappeared for nearly 60 years until it was discovered in pieces at a garage in Ohio. Unfortunately, several parts were missing, including the vented brakes and transmission. The parts were ultimately found less than 50 miles away. An eight-year restoration brought the car back to its original condition as detailed in period articles and pictures. And the guidance and advice of many familiar with the car providing photos and technical advice. Sydney Allard's format mating a light British chassis and a large and modern American V-8 engine is the genesis of the theory that birthed the Cobra.

Engine
1952 Cadillac 331 CI modified in period by the addition of headers, magneto, Detroit Racing dual carb high rise manifold with twin Carter single barrels carbs