To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Monterey event, 15 - 17 August 2024.

• Sydney Allard’s rare British-American grand tourer
• Powered by a Cadillac V-8 paired with a three-speed manual transmission
• Believed to be one of 63 K3 Roadsters produced
• Wonderfully restored with red exterior paint over tan leather

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. 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 provided protection from the elements, which was a luxury considering that the J2 and J2X were not equipped as such.

It is believed that most of the 63 examples produced were destined for North America, and most were equipped with engines of their owner’s choice that were installed once they arrived stateside. Many were fitted with Cadillac power, but several were equipped with engines from other American manufacturers.

As presented in Allard: The Records and Beyond, the example on offer was delivered new to a resident of Newburgh, New York finished in red paint over a black leather interior. The factory records within further note the inclusion of five wire wheels and the exclusion of an engine. While little documentation exists from the following decades, this Allard came up for auction in 1994 and was described to be in largely original condition and powered by a Cadillac 331-cubic-inch V-8 engine paired with a three-speed manual transmission. Just over a decade later, the car was offered again in restored condition from the Gene Ponder Collection. By this point, the interior had been reupholstered in tan leather with red piping, and safety belts were added. Lastly, wire wheels with Allard-script knockoff hubs were fitted on all four corners in an effort to return the car back to its factory-delivered specification.

Today, this mid-century hot rod remains in wonderful condition and represents an eclectic alternative to the more common Corvettes and Thunderbirds of the same period. With so few built over the course of production, the sale of this example presents a rare opportunity to make a tasteful addition to one’s collection. To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/mo24/.