Allard K2 1950-1952
If hot rods were invented in England, Sidney Allard would surely have created them.
His first production models appeared in 1946 with “flathead” Ford V-8 power. Soon after, Allard shoehorned the latest American OHV V-8s into his J2 and K2 models. The first Cadillac V-8 obtained from the US was immediately installed into Allard’s own J2 racing car that he entered into the 1950 Tour of Sicily and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where Allard finished third overall. Allard also scored highly at Monte Carlo, Watkins Glen, Pebble Beach and Sebring, where his J2s finished first and second in 1950.
Building upon the success of the road-going K1, Allard launched the sleeker K2 in 1950. A 3.6-liter Ford V-8 was standard, but buyers could also specify Cadillac, Chrysler, Mercury and Oldsmobile V-8 engines. The K2 was produced until 1952, with just 119 built. The few imported to the US were quickly adopted by road racers and exceptionally successful.
In the 1930s, Allard had built a dozen Ford-based specials for British trials competitions, some with Lincoln engines and many with a split-axle independent front suspension developed by Leslie Ballamy. During World War II, his London garage rebuilt Ford vehicles for British forces.
In 1946, with plenty of engines and parts on hand but no government contracts, Allard introduced the K1, a two-seater on a box-section frame with transverse leaf springing and Ballamy’s independent front axle. Either Ford or Mercury flathead V-8 power was available. Light and powerful, the K1 boasted excellent acceleration. It was succeeded by the J1, a shortened K1 intended for trials and sprints, and a four-seater, the M1.
As the J1 became the J2, so the K1 evolved to a K2 version in 1950. The aluminum body was redesigned, adopting a smoother look with a Healey-inspired grille. The Ballamy front suspension was changed from leaf springs to coils, and De Dion rear suspension was optional, as were wire wheels. Although normally built with Ford or Mercury flathead V-8s, K2s could be ordered to accept more powerful engines, usually installed at destination prior to delivery.
Most Allards destined for the United States were shipped to R/P Imported Motor Car Company in New York City, where engines were installed. They were then sent to dealers, like Max Hoffman in Manhattan.
180 bhp, 331 cu. in. Chrysler OHV V-8 engine with two-barrel Carter carburetor, four-speed Muncie manual transmission, coil spring split-beam axle independent front suspension, coil spring De Dion rear suspension, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 106 in.
Specs 1 160 bhp, 331 cu. in. Cadillac OHV V-8 engine with dual four-barrel carburetors, three-speed manual gearbox, Ballemy split-axle, semi-independent front suspension, de Dion rear axle, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 106
Specs 2 180 bhp, 331 cu. in. Chrysler OHV V-8 engine with two-barrel Carter carburetor, four-speed Muncie manual transmission, coil spring split-beam axle independent front suspension, coil spring De Dion rear suspension, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 106 in.