Classic Power: 1952 Allard J2X Unveiled

Classic Power: 1952 Allard J2X Unveiled

The Allard J2X: A Slice of Automotive History

Let’s talk about a classic piece of machinery: the 1952 Allard J2X. Now, this isn’t just any old car—there were only about 80 of these beauties ever made. Originally sold in the US, it once belonged to LA radio host Joe Pyne, because, of course, why wouldn’t a radio host have a snazzy sports car?

Fast forward a few years to the early ’60s, and this chassis 3037 found its way into the hands of a California citrus farmer. He kept it tucked away in a shed on his orchard in the Sierra Nevada foothills for a couple of decades, before handing it over to his son in the ’90s. The car then embarked on a renaissance trip to The Vintage Connection in Oklahoma City, where it underwent a refurbishment from 1996 to 1998. During this restoration, a 331ci Cadillac V8 was installed—reportedly jazzed up with 390 cylinder heads, four two-barrel Holley carburetors, and an upgraded lubrication system.

From Orchard to California Mille

The star of the show made its grand debut at a Fabulous Fifties Association gala at the Bothwell Ranch in Southern California. Fast forward to 2011, and it found a new owner when it was snagged from the farmer’s son. The newest custodian put the Allard J2X through its paces at the 2016 California Mille—clearly, this car still knows how to strut its stuff.

Specifications and Features

Now, let’s get into what makes this car tick. Finished in a striking red over classy black upholstery, the J2X doesn’t hold back. Here are some key features that make it stand out:

  • Borg-Warner Super T-10 four-speed manual transmission
  • Limited-slip differential
  • Alloy drum brakes with dual master cylinders
  • De Dion rear axle and front swing axle with forward-facing radius rods
  • Chrome 16” wire wheels
  • Custom brass radiator with an electric cooling fan
  • A 15-gallon fuel cell
  • Machine-turned dash

What’s not to love?

Design Evolution

The J2 model originally rolled onto the scene around 1950, aiming to become a lightweight sports machine for the US market. By late 1951, it evolved into the J2X, sporting revisions to the front suspension and engine placement. Its steel ladder frame was 6” longer than its predecessor while sharing a 100” wheelbase. The aluminum bodywork echoed the J2’s styling but with a longer nose and a single chin vent. Talk about a glow-up!

Refurbished Goodness

During its 1990s renovation, the Allard got a fresh coat of red paint and, unsurprisingly, some tweaks here and there. While it currently lacks windscreens, dual windscreen brackets are in place. Other notable features include:

  • Tubular front and rear bumpers
  • Lucas driving lights
  • A hood scoop
  • Leather hood retention straps
  • Driver-side mirror
  • Monza-style fuel-filler cap
  • Dual side-exit exhaust outlets

It’s clear that this machine wasn’t just restored—it was lovingly rejuvenated.

Wheelin’ and Dealin’

Let’s talk about the wheels. The car comes with chromed wire wheels secured by two-eared knock-offs and wrapped in Dunlop tires (measuring 6.00L-16). And yes, there are dual matching spares mounted on either side of the cowl. The hydraulic brake system uses finned alloy drums, with some sweet modifications from the ’90s renovation, including dual master cylinders for that extra pinch of safety.

Comfort Meets Functionality

Inside the cockpit, you’ll find two leather-upholstered seats—complete with three-point lap belts for both occupants, because safety is sexy. The features don’t stop there; enjoy color-keyed door coaming, carpeting, a central cowl-mounted mirror, an electrical cutoff switch, and a fire extinguisher tucked away in the passenger-side footwell. This isn’t just a car; it’s a lifestyle.

The Heart of the Beast

Let’s peek under the hood. The 331ci Cadillac V8 wasn’t just dropped in; it was carefully rebuilt in the ’90s with notable enhancements such as:

  • 390 cylinder heads
  • Offenhauser valve covers
  • A mild camshaft
  • A custom oil pan
  • An oil cooler
  • A full-flow oil filter
  • Custom four-into-one exhaust headers

Fuel flow comes courtesy of quadruple two-barrel Holley carburetors reigning on top of an Edelbrock 4×2 intake manifold, with ignition managed by a Vertex magneto. Everything is kept cool with a custom brass radiator and a pusher electric cooling fan. Need I say more?

Power and Performance

Power gets sent to the rear wheels via the bovine, bravely-looking Borg-Warner Super T-10 four-speed manual transmission. This, along with a Jaguar rear end sporting a limited-slip differential—also part of the ’90s upgrades—dramatically boosts performance. An aluminum flywheel and a hydraulic clutch make for a smooth ride. Front swing axle suspension and a De Dion rear setup ensure that the car handles like a dream.

Overall Condition and Registration

The car’s identification number, 55265663, is stamped under the right side of the dashboard. However, there’s a catch—currently, it doesn’t have a title since it’s registered in a state that doesn’t issue them for vehicles of its age. Nonetheless, it’s being sold on its expired New York registration, so it’s got some history on its side.

In summary, this 1952 Allard J2X is not just a car; it’s a rolling piece of history with stories etched deep into its metal. If you’re someone with a passion for classic cars, this machine is undoubtedly worth a second glance. Buckle up; it’s going to be a wild ride!