Current statistics show that Americans are hanging onto their cars longer; about six years or 27% longer before the recession according to Polk. It has me wondering, with increased reliability of newer vehicles, just how long can you keep a car going these days? Apparently very long if you can squeeze almost 230,000 miles out of an Alfa Romeo Spider. Normally we wouldn't feature a car with such high mileage on CICFS, but this Spider is a study in preservation, having benefitted from a repaint, replaced engine block and revived interior.
1983 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce on eBay
1983 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce Roadster. VIN ZARBA5416D1016845. Aqua blue/light blue leather.
Equipped with:
2000 CC 4 CYL aluminum engine
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection
Computerized digitial ignition
5-speed overdrive transmission
Limited slip differential
4-wheel power disc brakes
Capagnolo five star alloy wheels
Tinted glass
Power window
Side vent windows
Windshield antenna
Full instrumentation
Courtesy lights group
Front air dam
Rear spoiler
Upgraded stereo system
Car cover
Bra
Original window sticker
Workshop manual
Spare tire and tools
Maintenance recordsEXTERIOR:
10 year old repaint that looks good
Right front fender has a small dent near valance
Small dimple on right side of hood
No cracks in glass
Doors, hood and trunk all align nicely
Top looks like new, back window is clear
Wheels and tires in excellent shape
Small rust issue in spare tire well
Great looking car that's 29 years old.INTERIOR:
Seats have been redone and look great
Carpets are clea
No cracks in dash
Door panels look good with the exception of the top side on passenger door
More than nice insideMECHANICAL:
Fires up easily and runs smoothly
Shifts excellent
Brakes work great
All gauges work
Had a long block installed at 161,410 miles
Drives like a dream
I've always had a weakness for Aqua blue, as it compliments the delicate lines of the Spider and reminds one of being near the ocean, which is the natural habitat for such a roadster. This car has had attention in all the right places. While it has a few dings and scratches and a little bit of surface rust in the trunk, I'm a fan of this car. The patina works well and it's heartening to see such a vehicle used as intended while being well maintained.
-Paul
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