1953 Allard J2X Roadster

There were just 83 examples of the Allard J2X produced with production beginning in late 1951 and continuing until 1954. There were several distinguishing features between the J2 and the J2X, such as a new front suspension consisting of radius rods being placed in front of the axle, which necessitated a six-inch frame extension at the front. The wheelbase remained the same as the J2, with the engine mounted farther further in the X. This allowed more cockpit space and provided better handling. The engine of choice was still Detroit power with overhead valves.

This J2X with chassis number 3144 had cycle fenders, its original Bluemels Brooklands steering wheel, five British-made Pirelli Cinturatos, English Tenex fasteners, Lucas 700 headlamps, raked aero screens, rare steel wheels with Allard hubcaps and a passenger-side-mounted spare. The interior features a machined dash and Smith gauges.

In October of 1978, Ron VanKregten purchased the car from Jack M. Barbour of San Marino, California. It has been part of the collection since that time, coming to auction in 2009.

The car is powered by a 331 cubic-inch Cadillac V8 engine that produces 265 horsepower with the help of the single Quadrajet 4-Barrel carburetor. There is a three-speed manual transmission and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes with inboards at the rear.

In 2009, this J2X Roadster was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. The car was estimated to sell for $225,000 - $275,000 and was offered without reserve. The lot was sold for the sum of $258,500 including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2009