Well ahead of Carroll Shelby and other car builders of the post-war era, Sydney Allard saw opportunity in squeezing American V-8 engines into light, British-built bodies.

Usually utilizing a UK-exclusive Ford Pilot chassis fitted with an alloy body he designed himself, and typically powered by Ford, and later Cadillac or Chrysler V-8s (typically installed by the buyer after purchase), Allard found immediate success producing nearly ready-made racing sports cars.

Track success also followed, including a 3rd overall placement at the 1950 24 Hours of Le Mans in a car he helped pilot.

While the Allard K-series of sport touring cars was more luxurious than its J-series sibling, it was equally hair-raising.

Sharing a wheelbase with the J, the K2’s aluminum body was redesigned for a smoother, more Streamline Moderne appearance.

Three porthole vents for the engine compartment and a pentagonal grille, both to become synonymous with Allard design, made their debut on the K2.

As documented ...