1953 Allard K3

LMC is very proud to offer for sale this 1953 Allard K3 

   Before Carroll Shelby decided to build the infamous Cobra, Sydney Allard was stuffing eight- and twelve-cylinder engines into British cars before Shelby even started racing. Allard’s frighteningly quick sports and racing cars proved to be quite successful on tracks around the globe until well into the 1950s.

   In 1952, the K3 was introduced as Allard’s attempt to offer a more civilized variant of the J2 and J2X models seen at the track. The chassis featured Allards new twin-tube side rail construction that was both lighter and stiffer than the old formed channel design. Additionally, the K3 features the DeDion rear suspension and improved split axle geometry front suspension from the J2X for improved handling all around. A single front bench seat could accommodate three adults on its 56-inch width, and the use of twin fuel tanks in the rear fenders allowed for more room for luggage in the trunk. A cloth-covered folding convertible top and roll up side windows provided protection from the elements, which was a luxury considering that the J2 and J2X were not equipped as such.

   Fifty-seven of the sixty-three examples produced were destined for North America and most were installed with engines of their owner’s choice once they arrived stateside. Many were fitted with Cadillac power, but several were equipped with engines from other American manufacturers.

   This example offered here was imported by Allard Motor Company in NYC (the factory took over sales after parting ways with Perry Fina) on July 20th, 1953 and sold to its first owner Harry Crogin. It was originally ordered in White with matching wire wheels and  a Black leather interior.The build records indicate that the GM design division installed a 331 Cadillac v8 engine with  3-speed LaSalle manual transmission. In 1960, Mr. Crogin would then sell the car to the cars next caretaker John S. Blaine who kept the car in highly original condition during his 50 years of ownership until he finally let the car go in 2010. 

   The car was purchased by a collector in Miami, Florida who commissioned a complete frame off restoration. The body was stripped to bare aluminum uncovering a beautiful original body and then painted in this stunning shade of Gray. The interior was completely redone in beautiful Tan leather with a gray piping.  The Cadillac 331ci engine was rebuilt and the transmission was upgraded with a Tremec 5-speed. Front disc brakes were also added to increase stopping performance and make the car more drivable for vintage tours and rally's. 

   Once completed the car was shown at “The Quail” and as well as Amelia Island Concours. The car comes documented with restoration receipts, period photographs and ownership history. This beautiful Allard K3 is a very low-production British-American sportscar that would be an interesting addition to any collection.