Summary

This is the ultra rare X-300GT. It is number 52 of the 60 Kellison J4 modified bodies that were factory assembled by Allied for the Astra Automotive Division.

Details

The story of the Kellison Astra X-300 GT goes back to when company founder, USAF fighter pilot Jim Kellison, returned from the Korean War. He wanted to build his own car that used a fiberglass body. Remember, this was before the days of lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum. So Kellison got to work on his dream project and by 1957 the Kellison GT was ready. The Kellison GT featured an original exterior design that was dramatic, sleek and beautiful all at once. It had a low stance and a long hood that made it look good both on the road and track. The first Kellisons rode on a proprietary frame and had either tubular solid axles or units courtesy from Chevrolet. Kellison's car was called the J4. It cost $7,600, which was quite a chunk of change for 1960, which is probably one of the main reasons why it didn't sell many. By 1964, these Kellison J4 body cars were assembled and sold under the name Allied Astra. The X-300 GT differed from the other Kellison J4 cars due to the slightly raised roof and improved interior. This car is number 52 of the 60 produced by Allied. This particular Astra X-300 GT is not only rare because it's one of the last of its type but also because it's been completely restored to near original condition. Powered by a built 355 small block V8 mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. With the aircraft influence seen throughout Jim Kellison's design, the X-300 GT was, without question, a car way ahead of it's time.