Monthly Archives: December 2011

Ferrari

1973 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona

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The Ferrari 365 GTB/4, known as the Daytona, is arguably one of the most recognizable Ferraris ever produced. Introduced two years after the revolutionary Lamborghini Miura arrived on the scene, this grand touring machine was vastly different in concept than its rival from Sant'Agata Bolognese, yet a departure from Ferrari norm at the same time. It's long sweeping bonnet, crisp lines and headlight treatment were unlike anything anyone had come to expect from Maranello at the time.

With it's 4.4 liter V12 and 347 horsepower, this car could hit 60 mph in well under six seconds. From the movie Cannonball Run to a class victory at the 24 Hours of Daytona and appearances at Le Mans, this celebrated machine cemented its legacy amongst Tifosi and enthusiasts of other marques alike. Our feature car is a numbers matching, restored example presented in its original color, Rosso Corsa with Borrani wire wheels.

1973 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona

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The Ferrari 365GTB/4 unofficially known as the Daytona was produced between 1968-1973. 1,284 were made during that time period. The car was designed by Pininfarina and powered by the 4.4L 352hp V-12 with six weber carburetors. The car utilized a rear mounted 5 speed transaxle for optimal weight distribution and handling. It also featured 4 wheel independent suspension and 4 wheel disc brakes. They are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts and can be found in some of the world’s finest collections.

This particular example shows just over 39,000 kilometers (24,000 miles), and is finished in its original color combination of Rosso Corsa with Black Leather interior and red carpeting. Fitted with 5 Borrani’s and 5 XWX tires including the spare. This example also has book and complete tools and jack bag with jack, and is numbers matching. The mechanicals have been gone through by noted Ferrari experts Algar Ferrari and accordingly this is an outstanding driving example.

These particular Ferraris have always fared well, both in good economic times and bad. The asking price is right around the middle of the range for what Daytona Berlinettas are going for. At the low end, you can expect to pay a tad over $200,000, and certain vehicles with exceptional provenance have sold for well over a half million dollars. The factory Spyders will always garner the most money, but I've always preferred the one with the tin top.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

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The final iteration of the original Alfa Romeo Spider bowed in 1990 and was introduced in the North American market for 1991. This was to be the final rear wheel drive Alfa Romeo until the introduction of the 8C Competizione in 2008. A number of changes were brought about for this final iteration of a classic, including Bosch Motronic fuel injection, a drivers side airbag and all new front and rear fascias that incorporated the look of the Alfa Romeo 164's tail lights.

Marketed in the US until 1994 (and all 1994 Spiders were built in 1993), this was to be one of Alfa Romeo's last vehicles sold stateside until the 8C Competizione would appear 14 years later at Ferrari/Maserati dealerships. Even though they are getting on twenty years old, good, clean Spiders are fairly easy to come by, with some ultra low mileage examples on offer from time to time.

This particular Spider is in good nick, has a full history and is the higher spec Veloce model, which included leather seats, 15" alloy wheels, air conditioning and a cloth top fitted as standard. With a little bit over 48,000 miles, this car splits the middle nicely between show quality piece and higher mileage driver.

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

This is a beautiful Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce; an excellent example of the 4th and final version in classic Red with Tan leather. It was originally sold in Beverly Hills, stayed in Los Angeles until 2005, and brought to Seattle after the previous owner scoured the West Coast for a like new Alfa. Now I brought it back to Southern California. Included are the complete factory handbooks, receipts and a notebook with literature, maintenance records, California smog reports, Alfa Spider information, and a clean CarFax history report. Alfa Romeo made their last updates for 1991: driver airbag, new tail, new integrated bumpers, air conditioning, full leather seats, leather wrapped steering wheel, 15inch light alloy wheels, 120 hp 2.0 liter engine, Alpine stereo, power Antenna, power windows and power mirrors.

Condition: Absolutely beautiful condition in every way: interior looks like new, exterior is equally excellent, engine is extremely clean and everything is well maintained. A/C blows cold. All original maintenance receipts are included. I would not hesitate to drive this car crosscountry, or enter into a car show.

The asking price of $13,900 is about in the middle of the range of what I've come across in terms of Spider values as of late. For a car with low mileage in this condition, it is certainly a nice price for a usable, everyday classic. It is a little pricier and a bit more boulevard cruiser than a Mazda Miata of the same year, but in classic red, a car like this reminds me why I love Italian sports cars so much.

-Paul

Maserati

1962 Maserati 3500GT

The Maserati 3500GT is a demarcation line in the history of Maserati. Combining the 3.5 liter twin cam straight six engine from the 350S racing car and Superleggera bodywork by Carrozzeria Touring, this was the manufacturer’s first car made in significant numbers, selling over 2,200 between 1957 and 1964. With 230 horsepower on tap routed through a ZF four speed manual (which gave way to a five speed in 1960), top speed exceeded 130 mph. Front disc brakes were an option beginning in 1959 and direct injection made an appearance in 1961 in the 3500 GTi model.

This Maserati became a hit with enthusiasts and celebrities alike. Owners included Prince Rainier III of Monaco, Tony Curtis and Anthony Quinn. An interesting fact is that two prototypes were shown to the public in March 1957, one design by Carrozzeria Touring and the other by Carrozzeria Allemano. This particular 3500GT for sale in The Netherlands is fully restored and presents beautifully in metallic gray over parchment leather.

1962 Maserati 3500GT

Chrome bumpers and trim in super condition. This Maserati 3500GT is in top restored condition and it has the 5 speed manual transmission. Very gentle brown leather interiors and spoke/wire wheels. Restoration is documented. A most exquisite 3500 GT in beautiful condition! We can request vehicles to pass TÜV and create an appraisal for vehicles older than 30 years.

At €135,000 (~$175,000), this Maserati is priced in Ferrari territory and is for the serious collector looking for the best 3500GT that money can buy. My father recounts the time he was stationed in the US Army in Southern Germany and was lucky enough to drive a 3500GT owned by a higher ranking officer. Upon taking it for a spin on the Autobahn, he was stunned at how quick it was, as few cars of the day could quite match its speed. Fifty years on, the 3500GT’s presence and performance are still impressive.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1986 Ferrari Mondial 3.2 Cabriolet

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Four seater Ferraris tend to play second fiddle to the more purpose built sports cars of the marque. Intended as a replacement for the Dino 308GT4, the Mondial began life as a coupe in 1982 while the cabriolet debuted one year later. This was a significant Ferrari in many ways, most notably it was one in which the engine and gearbox were attached to a removable subframe, allowing maintenance to be performed with ease.

This 1986 Mondial 3.2 represents the halfway point in the development of the series. Updates over the original Mondial included a 3.2 liter V8 with 280 horsepower and a revised interior. With a little over 23,000 miles, this appears to be a well cared for example at an attractive price, which begs the question: with such a short description, could it be a trap? Or a way to enjoy an Italian exotic at a fair price?

1986 Ferrari Mondial 2 Convertible

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Beautiful Red Ferrari with low miles. Always garaged and starts the first try. Recent service, new original tires ($2k), new top. Interior in great shape with to rips. A true head turner. Runs great.

Entrance to the Ferrari club at this price is rare; if embarked upon, it should be done eyes wide open. While the owner claims this car has been serviced recently and runs fine, nothing short of a complete history would reassure potential buyers. A $25,000 car could easily turn into a $40,000 car in a heartbeat. While the Mondial is relatively easy to maintain compared to other Ferraris, this is still a Ferrari. For those on a budget, one must be fastidious with their accounting and vehicle selection so vehicle maintenance won't be a vehicle to bankruptcy.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6 2.5

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The Alfa Romeo GTV6 is one of those cars that is greater than the sum of its parts. Originating from the Alfa Romeo Alfetta GT which bowed in 1974, the GTV moniker debuted in 1978 on the 2.0 liter version of the car, which at the time, was the top engine choice. In late 1981, the GTV became the recipient of a SOHC 2.5 liter V6 taken from the Alfa Romeo 6, perhaps one of their most forgettable executive sedans. The V6 also received Bosch fuel injection in a move to solve the carburettor issues the Alfa Romeo 6 suffered.

The GTV6, as it was called, was hailed in the motoring press as a well balanced sports coupe, and it enjoyed racing successes in both the British Touring Car Championship and Australian Rally Championship. These coupes were marketed in the US and along with the Alfa Romeo 75 (Milano), they are revered by Alfisti as the last true Alfas before the Fiat takeover. I do come across quite a number of GTV6s for sale on a regular basis, but few as nice as this one for sale in Texas.

1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6

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Alfa Romeo GTV6 in Excellent condition (I’ll rate it 9.9/10) Always garaged kept. No dash board cracks. The car has the original Campagnolo magnesium wheels, including the spare. It has a working rear window defroster, power windows, power door locks and power mirrors. AC needs a charge and I suspect that there is a minor leak can go through the summer with one charge. NO 2nd gear syncro. Tires have 85% left. This car is all original, except for 4 new koni Yellow shocks and an ANSA muffler. It has been lowered to Euro specs.

This GTV6 is in the rarest condition you’ll ever find never been painted or upholstered 100% rust free.
NOW for all the Alfistis out there – this is the last GTV6 to be imported into the USA. As you can tell the rear emblem says Alfa 6 2.5 – the story behind it is that Alfa run out of emblems so they used the ones from the sedan (Alfa 90). I would not sell if not for the fact that i have to many Alfas/Fiats/projects and I would rather keep my GTV6 racer.

Bidding is up past $7,000 with a few days left, not having met the reserve. The most mint examples of these Alfas usually sell in the $12,000 to $15,000 range. Taking into account the AC repair, if this could GTV6 could be had for around $10,000, it would be a solid buy for a significant piece of Alfa Romeo history.

-Paul

Lamborghini, Modern Classic

1992 Lamborghini LM002 – The Last One Sold to the Public

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There are many cars which are obscure and which are legendary. Few are both at the same time. The Lamborghini LM002, however, falls into both categories. While all wheel drive is common in most current day Lamborghinis, the LM002 was Lamborghini's first vehicle to drive all four wheels. Conceived with the intentions of sale to the US military, the Cheetah, as it was called, had a rear mounted AMC V8 engine. This configuration was ultimately dropped due to bad handling characteristics. Instead, the V12 engine from the Countach was mounted up front and the LM002 was born.

The final LM002 rests in the Lamborghini museum, and this example for sale represents the last LM002 to be sold to the public.

1992 Lamborghini LM002

Without any doubt, the LM002 is one of the strangest cars ever built but also a turn in the motor car history. Back in the late 70s the idea came from US to replace the infamous JEEP by a powerful and modern fully independent suspended 4x4. Lamborghini made a study and built a serial of prototypes called “LM” to be tested by US army but Lamborghini had to face American’s way of business and patriotism … Actually Hummer got the market with a project actually mostly inspired by the LMs. As the car was already developed Lamborghini decided to produce and launched it in 1986.

The first “LM002” cars were delivered in late 1987, no need to say that it was really an “UFO” in the mid – 80s market. Actually the very first super performance 4x4 ever built. With the 5.2 liter 4 valves engine from the Countach it was a 444 HP beast of 2.8 tons, 1.9m height, 2 meter width, and 5.3m long ! 301 examples were built which is a kind of success considering the “strangeness” of the concept in the road cars market. The last cars were fitted with fuel injection a very modern one at that time, of which the Diablo will benefit. There is no valuable discussion if this a “nice” or “hugly” car … this a turn in the car history capable of 200km/h among the dunes.

We are extremely glad to offer this LM002 as this is probably the most interesting one, being the last example to be sold to a private actually the second by the end. The very last one was kept by Lamborghini and is currently exhibited in the make’s museum. This is a fuel injected version, sold new and registered in Germany in 1992 then kept by the same owner in 2003. There is a great history file including all of the service records from new, a copy from the registrations and very interestingly a letter from Lamborghini about the car’s singular history. This fabulous 29000kms LM002 has always been maintained to the highest level and can only be described as being in immaculate condition in and out, driving is superb also. No doubt this outstanding car would be a master piece in any major Lamborghini collection.

On our sister site, German Cars for Sale Blog, I've expressed my less than enthusiastic stance towards SUVs and off-road vehicles. The LM002, along with the Mercedes-Benz Geländewagen and Land Rover Defender, is one of those off-road vehicles without my respect. A Lamborghini V12, manual transmission and intimidating stance are the key ingredients to making this, quite possibly, the most over the top off-road vehicle the world has ever seen.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Classic

1962 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider

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What better way to celebrate Christmas than with a red roadster? The Giulietta is where Alfa Romeo got its start in building smaller, more affordable vehicles. This range included sedan, coupe, estate and Spider variants featuring variations of Alfa's twin cam 1.3 liter four cylinder engine. The Spider marked what would be the beginning of long tradition of roadsters for the marque. This particular example for sale in Houston is an older restoration, but is complete and presents well.

1962 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider

1962 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider, Chassis No. AR370837, Engine No. 10100.015005

The Alfa Romeo Guiletta and Guilia Spiders represent Alfa`s trademark shape of the 1950s and 1960s. Their understated but charming lines and nimble, responsive platform have long made them an “all-time” car among Italian automotive enthusiasts.

Finished in red paintwork over black interior upholstery with red piping, the 1962 Giulietta Spider presented here displays an aging restoration with excellent body and panel fitment throughout. The engine compartment and undercarriage are solid and remain very original. This desirable example is accompanied by the original Alfa Romeo Warranty booklet, restoration pictures, original literature, shop manuals and once removed original parts. While not a show quality contender, it is a very strong driver and benefits from a recent mechanical service. This handsome Alfa Romeo offers spirited open touring at a reasonable price! Desirable Giulietta Spider! Eligible for vintage rally & racing events! Ready for Continued Enjoyment! $34,900 negotiable.

These classic Spiders have been commanding strong prices in the market for some time. Given this is an older restoration and is showing some signs of wear (especially on the dashboard), I think it would be reasonable to negotiate down a bit on the asking price. If this Spider could be had in the high 20k range, to maybe $30,000 max, it would be a decent deal for someone seeking a practical classic. While these aren't the easiest vehicles to maintain, for me, it would be worth it just to drive one of these top down on a fall day and listen to that sonorous exhaust note.

-Paul

Lancia, Modern Classic

1987 Lancia Thema 8.32

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With the new year upon us, no doubt everyone is busy making their resolutions. I, on the other hand, am busy figuring out what new cars are legal to import, now that 1987 vehicles fall outside of the 25 year importation ban imposed on enthusiasts living in the United States.

One car that has always fascinated me is the Lancia Thema 8.32. If you aren't familiar with the Thema, this large Lancia shared it’s platform architecture with the Fiat Croma, Saab 9000 and Alfa Romeo 164. The Thema was rather sedate styling wise, but in true Lancia form, their engineers went ahead and did something completely off the wall. They stuffed a 3.0 liter V8 taken from a Ferrari 308 under the hood. This V8 was pretty much unchanged, save for a cross plane crankshaft which replaced the Ferrari’s flat plane crank, a different firing order and smaller valves. This was a rather exotic engine, as some of the engine components came from not only the Ferrari factory in Maranello, but from famed motorcycle manufacturer Ducati, as well.

The resulting car put up numbers which were impressive for a sedan at the time; 212 horsepower, 0-60mph in 6.8 seconds and a top speed glancing 150 mph. The interior included added luxuries such as wood trim and leather by Poltrona Frau. And electronically deployable rear spoiler rounded off the package. In total, 3,971 examples of the Thema 8.32 were built. For the intrepid US Italian automotive enthusiast, here is an example for sale in Germany.

1987 Lancia Thema 8.32

ABS, alloy wheels, central locking, ESP, leather seats, warranty. Car is in excellent condition, service receipts available at the official Ferrari shop.

For someone brave enough to tackle importation to the US and the servicing costs that come along with Ferrari V8 ownership, this is a Q ship right up there in rarity, if not desirability, with the Mercedes-Benz 500E and Lotus Carlton. You would certainly be the center of attention at any Fiat Lancia Unlimited meet up. With 65,000 km under its belt (~ 40,000 miles) it has been lightly used. The asking price of €13,800 (~ $18,000 USD) is at the high end of the range for these sedans and similar money can buy equally fast (and more reliable) new and used vehicles. For the Lancia or Ferrari enthusiast, however, this is a nicely preserved example of a rarely seen and forgotten Autostrade beast.

-Paul

Fiat

1970 Fiat 500L

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With the reintroduction of Fiat to the United States market in the form of the 500, let's take a look at the car's spiritual predecessor, the (original) Fiat 500, or Cinquecento. Designed by Dante Giacosa and introduced in July 1957, the 500 was Italy's answer to the Volkswagen Beetle. It was designed as a car for the masses and to be simple to maintain and repair. With a 479 cc air cooled two cylinder engine, it produced a paltry 13 horsepower.

By the time the L, or Lusso, version arrived, the engine was pumping out 17 horsepower. This doesn't sound like much, but keep in mind these vehicles weighed slightly over 1,000 lbs. The L included a redesigned dashboard and other interior upgrades. In 1975, the original 500 was eclipsed by the Fiat 126, but this diminutive little car was emblazoned in the hearts and minds of the Italian car buying public. It's a testament to their staying power that you still see Italians driving them around city streets and collectors the world over clamoring for well preserved examples.

This 1970 500L is for sale from a specialist in Boston and is in quite good shape and looks sharp in cream white.

1970 Fiat 500L

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This is a very clean, classic Fiat 500 L. This car was hand-picked in Parma, Italy and vetted by mechanics in both Italy and Boston. It comes with a new interior and a clear Massachusetts title. We have been importing vintage Fiat 500s for over 15 years. We take the necessary time and expense to go through each of the cars we import to not only make sure that they run properly when they are purchased but for the long term. Our cars are not the least expensive.

What most people don't realize is that these cars are 40+ old. Even though Fiat manufactured 4 million of them and built them to be driven "into the ground" just because they seem fine and look nice and shiny when you drive them away, doesn't mean that they will remain that way for long. There are several components of the engine, transmission, suspension and brake system that have to be checked and there are almost always worn or cracked parts (most commonly rubber components) that must be replaced for both the safety and long term enjoyment of the car.

Certain areas of these cars are also prone to rust. Rust that can be easily hidden by new "under carriage coating" or painted over. We make sure that all of our Fiats are safe for their new owners and if properly maintained will remain that way for the foreseeable future.

The asking price of $16,000 is a bit dear for what was originally intended as a people's car. These aren't the most ideal cars for long haul travel, so use would be rather limited to around town trips and short jaunts on the highway. The recent service and restored interior certainly makes this an attractive piece, but this car is approaching new Fiat 500 money. What price nostalgia, then?

-Paul

Lancia, Modern Classic

1979 Lancia Gamma Coupe

The Lancia Gamma Coupe has more than a few things in common with the Fiat 130 Coupe we featured yesterday. First, it's no coincidence that its styling is similar to the 130 Coupe, as both cars were styled by Pininfarina. Second, these two big coupes were never sold new in the United States. Third, they are quite a rare sight on the road today, no matter what country you are in.

I'm a big fan of the Gamma, as it has a bit of a budget Ferrari 412 air about it. The Gamma draws off of some of the Lancia Beta suspension technology and employs a horizontally opposed four cylinder engine, a departure from the Lancia norm. This particular Gamma coupe has the later Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection, which is a welcome upgrade on the reliability front versus the carburettor setup. While these engines offered good torque, they were nortorious for overheating and had issues wearing out camshafts. The power steering system was driven off the cam belts and at full lock, these belts could fail - leading to a dangerous situation, to put it mildly. Along with the horrible press the smaller Lancia Beta was garnering in the press due to rust issues, these were indeed dark days for Lancia.

Barring all the issues, these are pretty coupes that have aged well. I haven't seen a decent example of a Gamma for quite a few months, but this one in Valkenswaard, The Netherlands, looks to be a well cared for example.

1979 Lancia Gamma Coupe

Lancia Gamma 2500 ie Coupe with lots of history.

The seller's description is lacking, to say the least. €7,700 (~ $10,043) is strong money for any Gamma coupe. From the pictures, it does look like a clean, well cared for example. The Nardi wood rimmed steering wheel and shifter knob complement the tan interior and the metallic brown fits the car's '70s flair quite well. It would be awesome to ship this over stateside, as there are few, if any Gammas roaming US roads. If you had a good mechanic and a back channel to parts in the Old World, this would be a practical classic; one which exudes class, good taste and which would make you the hit at car shows and club events.

-Paul