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For 1952, the completely redesigned K3 was released, new from
the chassis up. The side rails were built up from a pair of vertically stacked
chromoly tubes, welded and reinforced with steel plates. Giving a 100-in.
wheelbase, this chassis was lighter and stronger than previous Allards. The K3
was a more serious touring car, with an aluminum envelope body, rather than
separate clamshell fenders, and had a bench seat capable of holding three
abreast. Engine options are listed as British Ford, American Mercury, Cadillac,
and Chrysler. Curb weight was 2580 lb. While the J2 had to do one thing, and do
it well, that being go very fast, more was expected of a serious passenger car,
and the K3 failed to deliver on several counts. It had limited steering lock,
resulting in a large turning circle and difficult parallel parking. The doors
didn't open wide enough, and inadequate windshield wipers were teamed with
nonexistent provisions for heating and defrosting. Furthermore, while a J2
represented a Ferrari-beating bargain at around $2,100, the K3 cost roughly
$5,300. A mere 61 cars were sold between 1952 and 1954, with most going to the
USA. |
