UK vs UK — 1948 vs 1949
| K1 | DB1 2-Litre Sports | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 85 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 200 lb-ft | 110 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,622 cc | 1,970 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 12.0 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 85 mph | 93 mph |
| Weight | 2,240 lbs | 2,359 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,013 mm | 4,140 mm |
| Units Produced | 151 | 15 |
| Value (Excellent) | $125,000 | $900,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1948 Allard K1 excels in quicker acceleration, lighter weight, better value, while the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports stands out for higher top speed, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Among Sports Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1948 Allard K1 and 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports is one for the ages. These Post-war machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1948 Allard K1 producing 85 hp and the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports delivering 90 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Allard K1 uses a V8 Flathead displacing 3,622 cc, while the Aston Martin DB1 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,970 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1948 Allard K1 edges ahead at 12.0 seconds versus 14.2 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 15 units built, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports is considerably scarcer than the Allard K1's 151 examples. On the collector market, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports commands a significant premium over the 1948 Allard K1, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1949 Aston Martin DB1 2-Litre Sports rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.