NEC Classic: Allard family unveils Palm Beach restoration

Allard Sports Cars Limited has unveiled what it describes as the 'ultimate original restoration' at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show. The company, which is still run by the original Allard family, has completed a full nuts-and-bolts restoration of a prototype 1956 Palm Beach Mk2.

The fact that the company is run by the son, Alan, and grandson, Lloyd, of Sydney Allard, who both have a very hands-on role within Allard Sports Cars, makes this charming company, based in Gloucester unique within the British specialist car industry. Their Palm Beach is especially notable for having been restored to its former glory by the same family business and name which launched it as a new car in 1956.

The Palm Beach Mk2 was found in poor condition just a year ago, and has been painstakingly restored by Alan and Lloyd Allard’s team over the last 10 months. The car has chassis number 72/7000Z, and is one of six made. Although Lloyd doesn't know for sure, as he just rolled up his sleeves and got on with it, he estimates that the Palm Beach's restoration has taken more than 1200 hours excluding the body’s preparation and paint. The original chassis houses a fully-rebuilt Ford Zodiac six cylinder engine and gearbox, and the aluminium body panels have been painted in period Carmine Red.     

Speaking to Honest John Classics at the NEC Classic Motor Show, Lloyd Allard said: 'We will have some exciting developments in the coming months and years, and the Allard name is definitely back, and support for the cars is stronger than ever.' Stay tuned to Honest John Classics for an upcoming feature on Allard Sports Cars Limted, and its stunning Palm Beach Mk2.