A number of Alfa Romeo Spiders have been featured on CICFS, but this is the first example of the Series I Duetto we have covered. Most famous for its role as Dustin Hoffman's ride in The Graduate, this roadster holds the distinction of being the last design of Batista Farina. Versus the later Spiders, this model is revered for its design purity, notably the boat tail rear end. This particular example for sale near Hartford, Connecticut has had the same owner for the last 32 years and has the larger 1750 engine.

1966 Alfa Romeo Duetto Spider

1966 Alfa Romeo Duetto Spider. VIN: 660229. 111,667 Kilometers (69,360 miles)

HISTORY:

-European model. Privately imported by an American service-man.
-Same meticulous owner since 1980.
-Expertly repainted in 1997, with all trim removed, in original red.

MECHANICAL:

-Engine was replaced with a 1750cc unit
-5-speed manual gearbox
-Brakes upgraded from Dunlop to ATE all around
-No oil leaks
-Car runs and drives well
-When the car sits for extended periods of time, there is a slight hesitation when accelerating. This problem clears up when the car is being used regularly.

BODY/EXTERIOR:
-Very straight sides
-Convertible top in excellent condition
-Solid underneath
-One small rust spot on lower right rear quarter, in front of wheel well (see photos)
-All trim and brightwork is ‘driver quality.’ That is, it’s all presentable but not show quality. The door handles, in particular, are pitted and need to be re-chromed.

INTERIOR:
-Original black vinyl in great condition, showing only moderate signs of wear (see photos)
-Dash is gorgeous!

Overall, the car is a very nice, original, driver that has been sympathetically maintained by the same meticulous owner for 32 years. Pre-purchase inspections are both welcomed and encouraged.

This is not a concours ready Spider, but it appears honest and would be a good starting point for a first time Alfa Romeo buyer that might want to do some tinkering or freshening up. It would also prove an attractive buy for the enthusiast seeking a driver that they can enjoy without the guilt of devaluing an expensive restoration job. Average values for Duettos are concentrated in the mid $20,000 to low $30,000 range. I would suspect a final bid of around $15,000 to $20,000 would represent a good buy.

-Paul