Despite his reputation for building brutal competition machines like the J2X, Sydney Allard simultaneously manufactured a stylish line of road cars, including the K-series two-seat sports cars, and the long-wheelbase four-passenger L Type. The open tourer offered here is an outstanding and highly original example of the latter, demonstrating how Allard was able to package sporting design cues into a larger model that still showcased considerable performance character.

According to the Allard Register, chassis number 792 is one of 193 examples built, of which 63 cars are known to survive today. Factory-finished in black paint over a blue interior with a black top, the L Type was allocated to Hughes of Exeter, from whom it was sold in August 1949 to G.S.W. Chapple of Oakleigh, who registered the car with tags reading “LTA 654.”

While the Allard’s interim history is currently unknown, it was reportedly acquired in 1967 by Peter de Kok, a South African granite magnate living in Great Britain. Mr. de Kok had the car repainted and enjoyed it as a daily driver for three years before selling it in 1970 to Major Carl Finstrom, a British diplomat working at the Embassy in The Netherlands.

In 1973 the Allard accompanied Major Finstrom when he relocated to Kansas in the United States. After only a year of driving use, however, the L Type was domiciled in long-term storage for a remarkable period of 41 years. Offered for sale in 2015, chassis number 792 was acquired by the consignor, a Tennessee-based collector of American-powered classics.

The Allard was then fitted with a purpose-built 280-cubic-inch Ford flathead V-8 prepared by specialist Frank Leisson of Victory Engines in Lexington, North Carolina. The new 24-stud engine features such high-grade components as a scat crank and rod, Ross pistons, a performance camshaft, Offenhauser aluminum heads, and electronic ignition. The original engine and triple-carbureted Weiand flathead intake manifold still accompany the car for potential restoration and reversion to factory specifications. The Allard is also desirably accompanied by its original side curtains.

A number of mechanical measures were also undertaken, including a rebuild of the original three-speed transmission and the installation of new brakes and a new high-speed rear differential. Still retaining its original factory upholstery and carpeting, this charming L Type is suited for concours presentation or can be enjoyed in driving events. It claims great rarity, as one of only 53 surviving examples, while offering a performance envelope that would have made Sydney Allard himself smile with envy.