Classic & Sports Car UK – September 2019

September 2019 Classic & Sports Car 213

Allegro engines lacked refinement but are easy to work on and cheap to run,
with faults easily spotted. The E-series can be prone to head-gasket failure, so
check the cooling system for leaks or overheating; look for emulsion in the oil
filler cap and oil in the coolant. Ensure the engine fitted is what it claims to be

Quartic wheel is sought-after; the

dash is simple, but new switchgear

is rare – a Mini indicator stalk fits,

but the horn icon is upside down

Early vinyl seats last well; later cloth

and velour is prone to wear, fade and

rot. Little is available new and used

trim is rare, so best to find a good one

The Allegro’s suspension is simple

and effective, with most joints an

easy DIY repair. The Hydragas system

rarely needs more than a pump-up

Supplies of new front wings are

drying up, so rusty ones may need

costly repairs. Headlamps and body

trim items are also getting scarce

The Allegro successfully addressed criticism of the ADO16’s driving position,

and combined adequate interior space with a much bigger boot. The Quartic

wheel wouldn’t be considered outlandish today, but traditional Brits ridiculed it

and the police even suggested it contributed to accidents in its panda-car fleet

,

to make

ckaging

islation,

fits own