1963 Ford Allegro: A Practical Dream Car of the Future - AllCarIndex

1963 Ford Allegro: A Practical Dream Car of the Future

Jan 18, 2025

When Ford Motor Company unveiled the 1963 Allegro, it was clear that this car was not just another run-of-the-mill vehicle. Developed by advanced designers, this sleek and futuristic car was a study in new design features and unique mechanical devices.

Gene Bordinat, vice president-Design at Ford, described the Allegro as “a practical dream car - a car of the future that could be built today.” And with its innovative features, it's easy to see why.

The Allegro was designed to be a brisk and lively performer. Its exterior was distinct, with a long hood, a grille that extended forward of the headlights, a compact passenger compartment, and a fastback roofline that gave it a sporty look.

But it was the interior of the Allegro that truly set it apart. The fixed seats had adjustable brake and accelerator panels, offering a new concept in driver comfort. The cantilevered-arm steering wheel with a memory unit was a standout feature. The steering wheel was centrally mounted, and the driver could adjust its height, position, and angle with the push of a button. The memory unit allowed the driver to easily return the steering wheel to their preferred driving position.

The interior design also featured retractable seat belts, a new innovation at the time. The spring-loaded belt would retract when not in use, keeping the interior clean and clutter-free.

With a wheelbase of 99.0 inches, an over-all length of 169.5 inches, and an over-all height of 49.6 inches, the Allegro was compact yet spacious. The Candy Apple Red exterior color added a touch of sophistication to this futuristic vehicle.

The 1963 Ford Allegro was truly ahead of its time, offering a glimpse into the future of automotive design. Its unique features and sleek design made it a standout in the 1960s, and it continues to be a coveted classic car today.