While the world waits eagerly for the next Alfa Romeo Spider to arrive, around 50 years ago, sun worshippers were fortunate that not one, but two Spiders were on offer. Those seeking a bit more power and prestige than the smaller, four cylinder Giulietta Spider could opt for the 2600 Spider, with coach work by Carrozzeria Touring and a twin cam, six cylinder engine. Fewer than 3,000 2600 Spiders were ever produced. This example for sale in Pennsylvania is not concours ready, but certainly a solid driver.

1965 Alfa Romeo 2600 Spider on eBay

1965 Alfa Romeo 2600 "Touring of Milan" Spider, correct Alfa "rosso" red/tan leather, tan convertible top, tipo #10601, Superleggera Touring #15599, manual transmission, 6 cyl., triple Solex carbs, 71,701 miles, described as a "California survivor" by the previous seller, a three owner car, and the last owner had it in his possession for 25 years, also described by the previous seller as a "noted Italian sports car collector". Hyperbole aside, the body is very straight and the panels fit well, the paint is glossy with a few minor imperfections. The bumpers appear to have been rechromed and are excellent. The interior, leather seats, carpets, and convertible top are in excellent condition.

After purchasing this car last year the present owner spent close to $11,000 having the car gone over, redoing portions of the brake system, overhauling the carburettors, suspension, wiring, ignition and other misc. items (photos attached of invoice). Still, there is more to do on this car if one was to make it like new. The car is missing the "Touring of Milan" emblems, other than the bumpers, the remaining chrome, is pitted in many places, the dash was recovered in a newer vinyl and has a slight tear, the gauge faces could be improved and the clutch is a bit difficult to release smoothly.

2,257 Spiders produced and who knows how many have survived. These are some of the last Alfas from the coachbuilt era and naturally are increasing in value. This is a good, California, solid running car with a clean undercarriage and quite a bit of sorting out already with the remaining items not too difficult to correct. Two people have told me that this car has power steering which I guess was an option. Also someone commented about the "Superleggera"(super light) designation- I was describing the plate that says "Superleggera Touring" under the "tipo" plate in the engine compartment in one of the photos. I am not sure if this "Superleggera" plate is original or added by an "alfisiti" somewhere along the line.

The asking price of $55,000 is right on the mark with regards to an average example like this. Not too worn out and not too perfect, these cars can hover around $40,000 to $60,000, with stellar examples reaching beyond $70,000 in some cases. For the collector who wants to use the machine he or she just invested money into, a car like this would be a great place to start, without feeling guilty about diminishing its value.

-Paul