Description
The Allard Motor Company had been formed in 1945 by charismatic designer, racing driver, hill-climber and inveterate “special builder”, Sydney Allard. From his very early days, Allard had been a keen supporter of the high power-to-weight ratio, and his cars typically featured large capacity American V8 engines housed in relatively lightweight fabricated chassis and bodies.
The K1 was Allard’s first post-war car, and was largely carried over from the pre-war J1. Based around the Ford “L-Head” V8 and associated running gear, the frame was made up from stamped-steel channel sections by Thomson’s of Wolverton especially for Allard. Side rails and cross members were designed to fit the Ford suspension.
One of only 7 road going K1’s in the UK today of the 151 originally produced in the late 1940’s. This car was completely rebuilt in the late 1990’s and used regularly by its then owner, John Aldridge in sprints and hill climbs. Subsequently purchased by Brian Salmon, #71K467A was completely rebuilt again in 2010 to a very high specification, winning numerous local best of show prizes. In its current ownership since 2013, #71K467A has won the Allard Owners Club Concours twice and picked up “The Best Allard to Take Home” award, as voted by the members.
Fitted with a 3.9-litre Mercury V8 running Isky ¾ race cams, valves, valve guides and springs, with an Offenhauser inlet manifold mated to a four barrel Holly carburettor and Offenhauser aluminium heads. The crankshaft, clutch, flywheel and pistons have been dynamically balanced for smother power delivery. Having just had the carburation and ignition overhauled and set up on a rolling road by Dennis Vessey & Co of North Lincolnshire, the car is said to be running beautifully and sounding better than ever through the custom stainless steel exhaust system. A truly wonderful and rare British sports car that can be competed, showcased or simply enjoyed by the very lucky new owner.
