For Sale at Auction: 1948 Allard Drophead in Amelia Island, Florida

Chassis No. 620G

Founded in London, the Allard Motor Company produced post-war sporting and competition cars pairing American V8 power with proprietary boxed frame chassis and lightweight bodywork of its Sydney Allard's own design. The refined M-Type took the sporting Allard from the track and placed it into the garages of those looking for a cut above. Weighing under 3,000 pounds and powered by a robust 3.6-liter Flathead V8, it offered excellent handling abilities from its signature independently suspended Ford "split" front axle and the Ford rear axle with a transverse-leaf spring suspension. A June 1948 road test by Motor Sport magazine opined on its "truly excellent steering and road-holding," and "on a fast main road run it has few equals amongst present-day production cars." The new Allard quickly became a sensation as the sports car that could do it all.

This M-Type Drophead Coupe has been in the collection of its current owner for over 20 years. A multi-year restoration was begun shortly after acquiring the car, resulting in a comprehensively restored Allard in early 2016. The Flathead V8 was completely rebuilt and upgraded with Edelbrock aluminum cylinder heads. Additionally, the suspension, brakes, cooling, and electrical systems were renewed. The distinctive aluminum bodywork was refinished in two-tone cream and dark green, with this color palette extending through the retrimmed dark green leather interior with cream piping and dark green Wilton wool carpets. A new dark green canvas convertible top and beautifully restored brightwork marked the final touches to this detailed restoration.

This rare Allard, believed to be one of less than 500 produced, has been shown at numerous high-level concours events, including Amelia Island, Hilton Head, and, most recently in 2024, at Palm Beach and Radnor Hunt. The car was also shown with the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), where its detailed restoration was honored in 2017 with a National First Prize, followed by a Senior National, and later a Grand National Award in 2020. Offering the option for continued concours showings or as a vintage rally entrant, this beautifully presented M-Type Drophead Coupe must one of the finest restored examples of this rare and collectible Anglo-American hybrid available today.