Founded in 1936 by Sydney Allard, Allard Motor Company initially focused on building one-off specials which were known for their stout engineering, lightweight bodywork, and powerful American V-8 engines. Though only 12 Allards are thought to have been completed prewar, they gained notoriety in trial events, with their high power-to-weight ratio proving successful. Postwar, the Allard Company continued to produce purpose-built sportscars that could be bought from the dealership, campaigned successfully, and be driven to work the next day. By the late 1940s, Allard had several models in production including the K, L, and M models.

The K1 was introduced in 1946 as Allard’s first postwar model, representing a pivotal point for the brand as it transitioned into postwar production. Altogether, approximately 151 were built in total. Unlike some of the racier Allards, the K1’s true intention was to be a dual-purpose road and race car, but not all K1s were created equal.

This very special K1, chassis 71K 595, was built by the factory in early 1948 as a rally car, and its Engineers Instructions production tag on file features the handwritten note on the reverse: “Special Construction for Alpine Rally…light weight body, 6-7-48.” The tag further specifies 71K 595 as set to receive aluminum wings, cowl, and bulkhead, special radiator and petrol tank, and Girling shock absorbers. It was delivered to the noted Leonard Potter of the UK. Fitted with the renowned Ford flathead V-8 engine, Potter successfully campaigned this K1 over the course of the year, winning the Unlimited Cup in the Allen Trial, the Jeans Gold Cup, and placing 2nd Overall in the prestigious Alpine Rally. Upon the close of the 1948 season, the K1 was sold back to Allard Works and was used as a sales demonstrator. Potter would then run 71K 595 again in the 1949 Alpine Rally for the Allard Works team, winning five separate awards for various stages in the famed event.

Following its campaign history, the K1 would then be relocated to the US in 1953 under the care of A.F.M. Luscombe. Stateside, it enjoyed life on the West Coast for quite some time, including time in Harrah’s Automobile Collection of Reno, Nevada. William Harrah eventually sold the car in 1971 to Allard racer Pete McManus. Throughout its ownership chain, it remained remarkably original, and would not be restored until the mid-2000s by marque specialist Hoffman Vintage Racing. Following the restoration, the K1 would go on to win multiple awards at prestigious concours events at Greenwich, Radnor Hunt, and Lime Rock Park. Beautifully kept throughout the years, and offered with an extensive file documenting its history, 71K 595 offers an extraordinary opportunity to enjoy an early competition Allard, a veteran of significant period rallies, including success as a works entry.