In 1949, long before Carroll Shelby stuffed a Ford V-8 engine into a tiny British AC Ace, a Brit named Sydney Allard conceived the Allard J2. Aimed primarily at the American market, the J2 showcased bodywork that had a burly, purposeful look, with cycle-style front fenders and nothing in the way of creature comforts.

The model could be fitted with a variety of V-8 engines from Mercury, Cadillac, Chrysler, Buick, and Oldsmobile, since each car was shipped stateside sans power plant. At less than 2,100 pounds in street trim, and even lighter for the track, the car saw much success in motorsport, placing third overall at Le Mans in 1950, and taking 40 first-place finishes out of 313 races from 1949 to 1957.

Allard’s subsequent J2X, with improved front suspension and chassis geometry, continued until 1954. For those seeking a car with icon status among collectors and vintage racers, the Allard J2X is certainly a winning choice, as it was a track legend throughout the 1950s.

Altogether, only about 175 examples of both models were built, and by 1958—after just 12 years in business—the company was defunct. Allard’s J2 and J2X represent an important piece of automotive history, with values ranging from $150,000 to well over $500,000 today.

Those seeking a more modern Allard-like experience are pointed toward the Allard Motor Works J2X MkIII, originally launched as the MKII at the LA Auto Show in 2009. This roadster may be just the ticket for jaded, “I’ve driven everything” types who long for something off the beaten path of Italian supercars, popular Porsches, and common Corvettes.

Engineered and built to standards of performance, safety, fit, and finish unapproachable during its first life, the resurrected Allard—which has a body in fiberglass and not in aluminum— is a visually accurate interpretation of the 1950s-era original, though not dimensionally identical. Weighing about 2,750 pounds, the MkIII has an enviable power-to-weight ratio, which translates to instant acceleration thanks to a potent V-8 engine, such as GM’s 6.2-liter LS3. The J2X MkIII delivers a thrilling driving experience; using modern suspension and disc brakes that complement its speed with equally competent handling and stopping power.

Despite its dachshund-like proportions and monstrous lump of an engine, the 2009 version of the roadster exhibits elegant road manners, with light steering and a ride that is downright luxurious when compared to hair-shirt roadsters like the lovable, but bone-rattling Morgan of the early 2000s.

Clearly, attention has been lavished on quality materials. The leather, carpets, and metal machining—such as the engine-turned aluminum dash—are many detail bits that are a welcome surprise and remind the driver that this is definitely a hand-built labor of love. Prices for a new one start at about $225,000, depending on engine and options. Do you need an Allard—old or new—in your garage? Only if you want to get in touch with truly visceral open-air motoring, and if fun is on your driving dance card.

Click here for more photos of this 1952 Allard J2X.