1972 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000 Coupe

Description

The 105-series Alfa coupe was introduced in 1963, a year after the Berlina (Sedan) version. Designed by Giorgietto Giugiaro for Bertone it was tasked with the job of following up the sweeping lines of the Giulietta Sprint.

Initially available as the Sprint GT, the Giulia coupe housed a twin cam 1.6-litre four-pot with 106bhp to go with its four-wheel disc brakes and five-speed manual transmission- cutting-edge technology for the time.

1966's introduction of the GT Veloce brought increased power through twin sidedraught carburettors and the first of a series of cars known simply as 'GTVs', a now-famous nameplate in Alfa Romeo circles.

These early 'stepnose' cars were evolved over the next decade or so, firstly with the 1779cc '1750 GTV' and finally the 2000 GTV which arrived in 1971.

These 2.0-litre cars are distinguished by a grille that houses several horizontal bars with a recessed centrepiece, while carrying on the 'smooth-nose' bonnet treatment introduced by the 1750.

Initially the larger engine was rated at one bhp less than the 1750 (132 v 131bhp) thanks to tightening pollution laws, but the larger engine was far more responsive at lower revs, even it if lacked the smooth revability of the earlier engines.

Though many were lukewarm about the design at the time, age has treated the 105 coupes gracefully and today they are acknowledged as beautiful Italians. They are becoming increasingly sought after, particularly in good condition, and offer a rewarding driving experience.