Description
1961 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Veloce
s/n AR1493E23899
Red over Red with Grey Trim
The Giulietta is the car that took Alfa Romeo from being a relatively small production company to being an economically viable and successful firm. Prior to that, they had produced large and expensive cars, and never in very large numbers. With the Giulietta, however, Alfa Romeo produced significant numbers of these charming and capable cars. Its success was due in part to its unique placement in the market. It was neither a large hugely expensive car, nor was it very small utility car (such as the Fiat 500). Instead, the Giulietta was affordable enough so that many could buy it, yet permitted a more glamorous and useful approach to motoring that really struck a chord with buyers on both sides of the Atlantic. Though over 100,000 Giuliettas were produced, just 1900 or so examples of the 101 series Sprint Veloce were produced. Thanks to their twin Weber carburetors, higher compression ratio, and hotter cam profiles, performance was much improved over the standard car.
Given their relative affordability for much of their lives, many examples have been poorly kept or modified, rusted, or been altogether written off. Consequently, solid original and well-cared for examples are difficult to find. This particular car is largely original and has been in California since at least the mid 1960`s and still wears its black plates. It is a lovely honest car that is in nice running condition. It was owned for many years by a gentleman in Southern California, before being sold to the owner of an Alfa Romeo repair shop in San Francisco. Its current owner purchased the car from that gentleman in 1994, and subsequently had Alfa expert Conrad Stevenson go over the car to verify its mechanical health. The suspension was properly set up, lowered slightly, and a larger front anti-roll bar fitted. Little other significant work was required, and the owner went on to compete in the California Mille several times. More recently, the car has been lightly serviced and had a new battery fitted.
Over the years, this car has seen some cosmetic renewal but remains a predominantly original and well-preserved car. The exterior shows no corrosion and the panels are quite straight. The paint is showing some age but is on the whole presentable. There are a few chips, nicks and an area of discoloration on the passenger`s door, but the paint is still shiny and makes a strong impression. The chrome is perhaps original and is starting to show some age in the form of haze and pitting, while the lights and glass are in good shape.
The interior is very original and wonderfully preserved. The upholstery and carpets are original and extremely nice, as is the dashboard. The instruments show almost no fading whatsoever while the headliner and door panels show some minor discoloration.
The engine compartment is extremely tidy and attractive, while the trunk is predominantly original and contains the spare. The correct cast Veloce airbox is present, as is the original windscreen washer bag. The engine compartment is on the whole very clean and makes a great impression.
The underside is solid and shows much evidence of recent work and proper care. The car drives well, with a nice tight feel and good synchos, including 2nd gear. The engine and brakes feel as they should, while the handling is excellent thanks to the enlarged front sway bar.
This is a rare opportunity to acquire a true California black plate car that is attractive but not too nice to be enjoyed. It is also extremely solid and free of corrosion, a real feat for unrestored Italian cars of this vintage. In combination with the car`s robust and proven mechanicals, these factors make this and ideal event car.
The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.
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Fantasy Junction • 510-653-7555 • 1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608