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2009 Shannons Sydney Summer Classic Auction
Lot
14

1975 Alfa Romeo 2000 Spider

$13,000

melbourne

Sold

Specifications

Engine In-line 4-cylinder, 1962cc
Gearbox 5-speed manual
Body Work Spider
Colour Cream
Interior Black
Wheels Cast alloy
Brakes Discs

Description

This lot is no longer available

Introduced to the public at the 1966 Geneva Salon, the Alfa Romeo Spider was named the Duetto after a competition was held and remained in production for the next twenty-eight years, which says a lot for the inherent qualities of the original design. With classic styling, based on a series of styling prototypes from the 1950s, by the renowned Pininfarina design house and relatively advanced mechanical specification, the new Alfa Romeo utilised the classic twin-cam 1600cc engine mated to a five-speed gearbox. With a great ride, sharp handling and disc brakes all round the car was a fine performer on the road and remains a superbly satisfying car to drive today. The original 1600 model was later joined by 1300 and 1750 versions and in 1971, the engine was enlarged to a full two litres to give a useful increase in power and torque. The hefty asking price - the Spider cost slightly more than an E-Type Jaguar in Britain for example - always meant the Alfa Romeo was destined for the fortunate few. Although Pininfarina's original shape survived largely unchanged until production ceased in 1994, numerous detail changes were made - most notably the adoption of the Kamm tail section in 1969. Early two-litre cars, with the torquier engine and chrome bumpers, arguably offer the best combination of looks, performance and charm of all the Spiders.