{vsig}1997-7_1641{/vsig}
This car was delivered to Allard agents in Dagenham Motors on the 1st of May 1952. Dagenham Motors sold the car to a Mr. R. Ferrari (no relation) of Gunnersbury Lane, London. Mr. Ferrari owned the car, it appears, until 1960 when in February of that year he advertised the car for sale in the Allard Owners' Club newsletter. The car was sold to a Mr. Moul of Sutton Coldfield, Warwickshire, who joined the Allard Owners' Club in late summer, 1961. Mr. Moul owned the car for many years and in 1975 the car was sold to Mr. Malcolm Maycroft of Claines, Worcester, who owned it for some 20 years.
In 1992 Mr. Maycroft decided to restore the car regardless of cost. Subsequently, the car was sent to renowned specialists, Rod Jolley Coachworks, where a full and total restoration took place. Mr. Jolley declared that this car was one of the most original Allards he had ever seen, possibly one of the most original in existence. The restoration was completed at a total cost of over $84,000.
In February 1994 the car was sold to Mr. David Styles. Mr. Styles intended to race the car in the Mille Miglia and other important British and European races and rallies. He felt confident in his purchase as the car was so very well restored. To this end, he purchased a fully rebuilt Mercury racing engine, exactly correct for an Allard of this type. The engine is brand new, including Edelbrock aluminum cylinder heads, Iskanderian racing cams, Twin Stromberg 97 carburetors, new pistons, rings and bearings. To purchase and rebuild an engine to this level would cost in the region of $7,000. This engine is included with the car as is a new clutch and a fully rebuilt gearbox.
Having only covered running-in mileage, this historic Allard, which is eligible for a host of historic motoring events, is described as being in excellent condition in every respect. Coachwork is in British Racing Green with a black leather interior and polished aluminum cockpit and dashboard.
SCM Analysis
Detailing
| Vehicle: | 1952 Allard J2 |
This Anglo-American hybrid brought $62,160 when it crossed the block at the Coys 15 May 1997 auction. That price is absolutely market correct.
Allards are often bought by folks who want to race in the same vintage groups as Jaguar C-types for one-tenth the money. They have always been a cult car, and might best be considered evil-handling Super 7s on steroids.
If you’re considering buying a J2, try sitting in it first. Their cockpits are tiny, and supersized Americans often simply can’t fit. The J2X with its larger cockpit is better; people up to 5’9″ can find space for their legs in them.
Allards will never be a mainstream car. Pay up for a good one, but don’t expect it to be easy to sell if you tire of the car. – ED.