Fantasy Junction

Description

1969 Alfa Romeo Duetto Spyder
s/n AR1480618
Rosso Corsa with Black Interior

With the great success of the Guilietta and growing interest in what Alfa Romeo might offer next, it was time to introduce a new design to the famed and winning lineup. Alfa delivered an all-new design with help of Pininfarina, releasing the first series spider at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1966. Originally named through a novel customer competition, the winning entrant “Duetto” had to be delayed due to trademark issues, releasing it officially as the Spider 1600. Alfa Romeos have long been prized for their exquisite designs and performance. Well-appointed, beautifully finished, and capable at the race track, these cars have become more and more sought after by collectors seeking exciting motoring experiences.

The series 1 cars (1966-1969) were delivered with 1570cc twim cam engines and dual Weber two-barrel side draft carburetors, producing 108hp, through a 5-speed manual transmission and disc brakes. But by 1969 the engine was updated to the 1750 adding SPICA mechanical fuel injection to all cars destined for North America. Among the most unique features of the series 1 is the beautifully tapered rear “boat tail” or “round tail”, directly carried over from the Alfa Romeo S3000 Superflow show car. This distinctive feature was later changed in series II and later cars to the shorter Kamm tail. The basic design of the Duetto Spider would continue largely unchanged for three decades, including fame in the critically acclaimed movie “The Graduate” – just one of the many tributes to the adventurous spirit behind these capable cars.

This particular example has been a California car since new, supported by service records dating back to 1980. Having benefited from California ownership and mild climate, the straight body was prepared for paint approximately ten years ago including repairing minor rust areas around the floor drains under the seats, while repairing minor surface blemishes before the new paint was applied. The chrome work was redone, new rubber fitted, and a new top and interior, new shocks and new tires were also installed. During this time, mechanical work included servicing the brakes and electrical. In 1996 Oliverie Engineering, responsible for servicing the car since 1986, installed the 2 Litre engine which remains in place today. Recently, Niederst Restoration serviced this Duetto, installing high performance cams, replacing an axle bearing and seal, replacing the fuse block and heater ducts, and tuning the Spica system. A new Custom Autosound radio was installed with smartphone link capability.

Today this Duetto presents very nicely with all components and materials reflective of California ownership and enthusiast care. The beautifully finished round tail is nicely accented by tail lights and rear trim with excellent fit, accented by delicately finished features. The smaller side marker lights lightly decorate the clean and pure lines, while the grille and front fascia are in very nice condition showing many of the design traits as seen in the legendary Superflow. The finish is glossy and very attractive, suitable for local shows and driving enjoyment. Doors, hood, and trunk lid have very good panel fit overall, with just minor areas showing typical variations for a well-maintained but enjoyed car. The general finish of the trim, emblems, and various chrome parts is quite well done and properly fitted, with many parts showing new rubber and tidy detailing. The cast wheels are painted silver metallic with chrome plated lug nuts and relief sculpted Alfa Romeo center caps giving the car a more sporting feel. The Michelin tires are in excellent condition, showing only minor wear.

The interior has been very nicely prepared showing a combination of original components with correct high-quality materials and proper finishes installed when the interior was redone some years ago. The seats are very well done with excellent pleats and piping over firm but not overdone foam. A very nice array of instruments, including a recently rebuilt speedometer by North Hollywood Speedometer, and nicely wrapped leather steering wheel conveys the look and feel of an enjoyably driven Duetto. The dash pad is nicely preserved and contrasts elegantly with the red metal dash fascia. The black canvas top fits snugly when up and easily stows. The black carpeting is in very nice condition sporting a pair of Alfa logo floor mats, finishing off the interior. A proper rubber trunk floor mat finishes off the luggage area per original specifications.

Under the hood reveals a handsomely finished Spica Injected 2000 engine. As noted, the engine was recently updated with hotter cams and the injection properly tuned in harmony with the new cams. All finishes were done to generally high standards with proper material upgrades as needed for improved durability. The polished aluminum dual overhead cam head is an excellent visual treat, flanked by the Spica Injection plenum and airbox. While every effort has been made to give the engine compartment a handsome and authentic appearance, the upgrades and cohesive visual appearance make this Alfa Romeo an enticing engagement to drive.

On the road, the Duetto truly delivers on the promises of performance and enjoyable open motoring. The engine fires quickly and the hotter cams reveal a hint of their capability in the low murmuring idle. The engine delivers excellent power in all ranges but truly wakes up in the higher revs as the cams come on. The shifter and clutch operate well offering smooth starts and easy up gear action as you move through the 5-speed synchromesh transmission. Ride is quite nice through traffic with very capable cornering even driving at a more leisurely pace. Underneath the car is tidy and clean, though not detailed for show but further supports the care and proper service performed over the years. There is no damage repair evident when inspecting the floor pan, inner fenders, or structural areas underneath the car, but there is one small soft area under the driver’s seat. Records and registration slips dating back the 1980s are included with the car along with an owner’s manual, jack, tools, and spare tire.

Beautifully finished and ready to enjoy as intended, this 1969 Alfa Romeo Duetto Spider awaits a new buyer and fortunate passenger to complete the “Italian Duet” so aptly named 50 years ago when the stunning spider appeared on the show circuit, captivating enthusiasts and admirers for decades to come.

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