Fantasy Junction

Description

1974 Alfa Romeo Montreal (auction in progress)

Chassis Number – AR1428258
Exterior Color - Silver
Interior Color – Black Velour and Vinyl
Engine Type – 2.6 Liter V8 with Spica Fuel-Injection
Gearbox – 5-speed manual
Current Kilometers – 56,755 kms TMU
Current Owner – Purchased 2015

Highlights of This Car

-One of 3,925 Montreals produced
-An unrestored car with good structural integrity
-One of very few V8 powered Alfa Romeos ever produced

General History

The Alfa Romeo Montreal remains as one of the most desirable GT cars ever offered in series production. Powered by a detuned version of the astonishing quad-cam fuel-injected, dry sump V8 directly descended from the legendary T33 racer, the Montreal featured a 5-speed ZF transmission, disc brakes all around, and a chassis derived from the venerable 105-series Alfa. Originally developed and featured at the Montreal Expo in 1967, the stylish Marcello Gandini design was both striking and aerodynamic, featuring many ideas that would inspire future sports cars. Highly priced when new and constructed under great care using time consuming hand labor, just 3,925 examples were constructed during the seven-year production run from 1970 – 1977. The Montreal was highly favored by contemporary press, citing impressive mechanicals, satisfying cornering capability, and advanced styling, all of which continues to further the lore of these Italian thoroughbreds continuously sought after by collectors and enthusiasts today. Although the Montreal was never imported to North America, the desirable performance package, coupled with high-speed touring roads throughout America, tempted many enthusiasts to import these amazing cars into the US.

Cosmetic Overview

Although early history of this car has yet to be uncovered, the current owner, a Northern California collector with multiple Alfa Romeos, purchased the car in 2015. Visually the condition appears to be reflective of mostly original features including the paint color, exterior trim, and possibly portions of the interior. And while the car is complete and visually presentable and this Montreal can be used as is, it should be considered an excellent candidate for thoughtful restoration. The silver paint, likely original, is aged, shows checking in various areas around the body, several scratches, and numerous chips, but the color conveys a clean and distinct profile, particularly due to the contrasting effect of the unique body side ventilation slots of Gandini’s original design. In this color, the eyebrow headlights and central hood scoop details can be more readily appreciated as part of the novel design. The lean profile, complimented by the expansive glass and dramatic side window up-sweep reminiscent of Gandini’s Lamborghini Miura, deliver a striking presence to the low and wide Montreal. The panel fit is generally good, and the doors, hood and rear hatch offer confident closures. There is a small dent in the metal of the rear hatch crease line and some rust bubbles are noted in the fender blisters and lower areas of the body. The exterior trim is in generally good condition including the complete and often hard to find stainless steel grille trim and front bumpers. The painted headlight eyebrow trim (typically wavy in cars having received lesser care) remains in good condition overall and moves up and down via the dash switch. The trim, glass, and plastic lenses are in good condition. The stainless steel European rear bumper will require some attention in order to return it to the factory contours. The characteristic side vent screens are in good condition, none of which have become cracked or broken due to heavy sun exposure as often seen in these cars. The wheels are in good condition overall, though displaying typical curb rash. A set of BF Goodrich T/A radial tires are mounted and appear to have good tread remaining.

The unrestored black interior appears largely original and in generally good condition. The interior features correct retractable headrest seats with black cloth inserts and black trim. The seating surfaces are nicely preserved, showing signs of use but still exhibiting very nicely maintained original finishes and foam support. The dashboard, center console, and door panels all reflect a very nice, cohesive presentation, retaining original surfaces, some of which show signs of age but are otherwise rather nice. Handsomely adorned with factory switches, correct original knobs, and desirable 5-speed ZF gear selector with a very nice shifter boot, the interior has a distinct harmony both in condition and design, offering a combination of performance and Italian forward-fashion. The unique Paolo Martin designed dashboard cluster, traditional wood rimmed steering wheel, and charming, though usable only for young children, rear seats complete the surprisingly spacious cockpit. Although it appears that most of the glass is original to the car, the passenger side glass does not currently roll to the up position. The grey carpeting is in generally good condition, as is the headliner and various interior trim, all of which exhibit evidence of use, but with a cohesive presentation. The unique foldable rear storage compartment safely conceals contents from view through the expansive rear glass. The foldable tray is nicely covered in original materials, with some vinyl areas having relaxed a bit over time. Beneath the carpeted floor panel, a recessed trunk section contains original sound insulation and black factory finishes.

Under the hood, the quad-cam V8 is honestly presented to correct but unrestored standards, featuring proper Alfa Romeo components, finished in what appears to be original coatings. The Spica fuel injection retains a correct original steel-formed air plenum, four of the six correct tri-star fasteners, correct injector boxes, and proper injection lines. The remaining hardware, wiring, hoses, and fasteners throughout the engine compartment and firewall appear original with the exception of new spark plug wires. Original factory stickers, specification emblems, and stamped metal plates are all in place and generally legible. Although the factory air conditioning is still mounted on the car, it is currently not functional and some of the fittings have been disconnected.

Underneath, the car displays condition consistent with unrestored cars, with no immediately visible structural damage and generally good condition noted to the components and suspension. Dual exhaust is configured, reflective of factory type mufflers and resonators. Condition of the car overall strongly supports the 56,755 indicated kilometers as likely correct and original to the car.

The car starts easily and idles smoothly with a nice throaty exhaust note reflective of the powerful quad cam engine and Spica fuel injection. Although the first gear synchro exhibits signs of wear, the remaining gears operate smoothly. The engine pulls strong with progressive power, rising to highway speeds accompanied by impressive quad-cam sounds. The gently softened cornering delivers a blend of luxury touring comfort with sports car performance. Braking is responsive from all four discs, bringing the car to a smooth and controlled stop. Seating position and visibility are all very nicely engineered and effectively packaged in this uniquely designed and rare flagship Alfa Romeo.

For anyone who has ever desired one of Alfa Romeo’s most elusive and interesting road cars, the quad-cam V8 powered Montreal will excite even the most particular performance minded enthusiasts. This Montreal can be enjoyed as is or offer the satisfaction and pride of a restoration as part of the ownership experience.

Included with this car

The car is accompanied by miscellaneous interior trim parts, a factory jack, and two Alfa Romeo Instruction Books.

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.

Inquire About This Car

Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608