Monthly Archives: February 2012

Alfa Romeo

1966 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint

It's unfortunate, but big Alfas never get the proper respect they deserve. Ironically, the smaller models, like the Spider, GTV and Alfetta garnered more of the attention over the years, when there were perfectly good gran touring machines at the top of the range. While based on the smaller 2000 range, the 2600 had an all aluminum, 2.6 liter twin cam six cylinder engine, good for 145 horsepower. Available in Berlina, Sprint or Spider configurations. A little over 11,000 were produced from 1961 through 1968, with the majority (almost 7,000) being the Sprint version, or coupe, you see here.

1966 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint

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1966 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Coupe by Bertone

Chassis No. 825680
Engine No. AR00601*07668*

SPECIFICATIONS:
2.6 liter all-alloy DOHC Inline 6 with triple Weber DCOE 45 carburetors and 5 speed manual transmission, disc brakes all around. NOTE: A hand-written notation in registration with Automobile Club D’Italia cites it as a “2600 Super Sprint”.

Original Color: Bianco Spino
Original Mileage: 68,800 KM

Sadly the time has come to sell my beautiful Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint. The 2600 Sprint is considered to be one of the simplest and usable Grand Touring cars of the 1960’s. Introduced to the public at the 1962 Geneva Motor Show, the 2600 (106 series) was seen as the flagship for the marque with its newly developed all-alloy in-line six-cylinder motor. Displacing 2,584cc it was lauded for being a remarkably smooth engine that was well mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The Sprint name was given to the Bertone-bodied coupe. To me the 2600 Sprint is the reason an Alfa is an Alfa. Which are known for its smooth ride, handling, smooth shifting and great performance. They are just so much fun to drive!

This car has had much care and attention. It has nice paint and all original well preserved interior. The color combination is beautiful and the mechanicals are very good. The previous owner to me repaired the bottom of the door sills and the paint does not match exactly to the rest of the car. I just had the Weber Carburetors completely rebuilt and tuned, the brakes completely serviced, it has new Bilstein shocks, new Limiter straps, new clutch master cylinder, and rebuilt fuel pump. My mechanic says it will probably need a new throughout bearing because you can hear a slight jingle from the clutch. The car has power windows, seat belts, and is overall a good quality driver. I have driven it on many back country roads and it is truly a joy! The engine bay and the under carriage are nicely detailed and the trunk is very clean with the spare tire and jack in the right locations. I have not seen any rust on this car. It is very solid throughout. This is not a perfect car, not a show car, simply a good quality driver.

Note: This is a 1966 titled as a 1967. Clear Texas title in hand. Beautiful Touring Italian sports car!
Excellent candidate for vintage tour and rally events! Very original throughout! Recently serviced, brakes, and nicely tuned weber carbs. starts right up with no smoke! Original interior, spare wheel/tire, and jack! Advertised locally for: $39,500.00. Selling with NO RESERVE to the high bidder.

This 2600 is an outstanding example of a little known Alfa Romeo on these shores. The patina on this vehicle is just right; a few scratches here and nicely worn leather to go in hand with that legendary twin cam six mill under the hood. It has also received a proper amount of mechanical and cosmetic attention. I'm a big fan of the Giulias from the period, but this Sprint has me rethinking which vintage Alfa Romeo is my favorite.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

2001 Ferrari 456M GT

In the past decade, an alarming trend has taken hold with Italian supercars: the death of the traditional manual gearbox. Sure, more often than not the new automated manual gearboxes are more efficient in terms of performance and economy, but I can't help shed a tear contemplating the lack of involvement versus having a car with three pedals. The only new Ferrari you can buy with a proper manual gearbox is the California, and who knows how long that variant of their hardtop convertible will stick around for. I miss the old Ferrari, specifically, the impressive Gran Touring coupes that used to emerge from Maranello. The 456 was an impressive machine; the first front engined V12 Ferrari sold in the US since the 1970s. Most were equipped with a GM 4 speed automatic, but a few were sold in this market with a proper 6 speed manual. This car is one of them.

2001 Ferrari 456M GT

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2001 Ferrari 456M GT. One of only 688 456M GT built, very hard to find 6-speed, absolutely impeccable. Black With Crème Connolly leather interior, books & records, toolkit and Ferrari cover. 30K service done at Ferrari dealership to the tune of $16,279.98 in 2011. New belts, new clutch, new radiator, new alternator, new Michelin Pilots, stainless steel Tubi exhaust, brand new leather dashboard!

Original paint, stunning condition. Original MSRP Of $226,964.00. Clean carfax, no stories. You probably won't find a nicer one. The name 456 is derived from the fact that each cylinder displaces 456 cubic centimeters. The Modificata 456 M appeared in 1998, starting with chassis number 109589. Acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) was just 5.2 seconds. Many changes were made to improve aerodynamics and cooling, and the interior. The undercarriage spoiler on the 456 M is fixed, where the older 456 had a motorized spoiler that began its deployment above 105 km/h (65 mph).

Power was up slightly on the Modificata now using Bosch Motronic 5.2 engine management at 448 hp. The firing pattern was changed for smoother running, and the torque remained the same for later versions of the 456 GT. Despite its supercar performance, the 456 has a relatively unstressed engine, which has proven to be a very reliable unit. The chassis is a tubular steel spaceframe construction with a one-piece composite bonnet and body panels of aluminium. VIN# ZFFWL44A910125402.

An under $60,000 asking price is very tempting for so much Ferrari goodness. The recent service is encouraging but keep in mind that Ferrari services come up often and they are expensive. Therefore, a $60,000 Ferrari could turn into an $80,000 one in a heartbeat. Still, it is nice to dream and this is a fine example of a true gentleman's express.

-Paul

Lamborghini, Modern Classic

1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary

One feature car visibly absent here at CICFS is arguably one of the most well recognized and visually arresting exotics ever to hit the road: the Lamborghini Countach. Designed as a follow up to the car that invented the supercar genre, the Miura, the Countach was a legend, known for it's scissor doors, raucous V12 engine and less than friendly driving experience. Towards the end of the Countach's life, a 25th Anniversary model was introduced to celebrate 25 years of Lamborghini vehicles. Mechanically similar to Countach's that preceded it, the 25th Anniversary had restyled airboxes, a wealth of body colored trim and different taillights. A total of 650 of these Anniversary models were produced until the Diablo was released in 1990.

1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary

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Thanks for viewing this STUNNING 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary Edition. With just 7,129 KM's (4,430 Miles) and in the perfect color combination of Red with Black Leather, this is a every you could want in one of the most iconic SUPERCARS!

Some people say that this is a collector car of the future, but if you follow the trending UPWARD prices of these beauties, you'll understand that this is a collector car of the PRESENT. SICK AND TIRED of losing $$$ on brand new exotic cars? Here's your chance to buy a SUPERCAR that will appreciate in value! This Countach is in EXCELLENT CONDITION. It has little to no wear in the interior and the exterior is exceptional. The paint is bright and shiny without any significant blemish.

It's had a very recent full fluid service and a new set of Pirelli PZero tires as well as new cooling hoses and drive belts. This Anniversary Edition adds the rear wing and U.S. front bumper painted red to match. Unlike the earlier cars, the 89 was upgraded with restyled and enlarged rear air boxes, the vents behind them were changed so that they run front to back instead of side to side for improved cooling. Also, a new air dam and side skirting, both with air intakes, were fitted, and the taillights were restyled to be narrower, with body-colored panels replacing the upper and lower parts of the previous large taillights. Complete with books, jack, spare tire, service records and keys.

The asking price of almost $120,000 is not unreasonable considering you are buying an almost 23 year old brand new Lamborghini. It most certainly won't be bought to be used on a daily basis, as the Countach driving experience is not as friendly as the contemporary, Audi influenced Lambos. For a kid that grew up in the 80s, though, this car was the poster child of outrageousness in the automotive world, and more than a decade on into the new millenium, nothing has changed.

-Paul

Lancia

1974 Lancia Fulvia S3

The Lancia Fulvia is one of my favorite Italian coupes. It's slanted grille, delicate roofline and proportions that suggest a larger car than you would think give it presence to which new cars can not hold a candle. I've always dreamed of owning one, but sadly, this V4 powered rally legend is getting more and more expensive by the minute, at least in the US market. Scour the classifieds in Europe, however, and it's another story. Here is a clean example with a repaint and original interior for sale at a reasonable price in my homeland, Portugal.

1974 Lancia Fulvia S3

Currently in a very good condition. Carefully maintained. Excellent mechanical condition. Repainted 7 years ago, remains very, very nice with no defaults. Absolutely rust free! The interior and chrome were in perfect condition and still original. This Fulvia shows all the original details. Very clean car with nice looks.

At €8,500 (~ $11,300), even including the cost of shipping stateside, this represents a good value for a well preserved Fulvia. These cars are beginning to see a rise in values and given their history and significance, will continue on an upswing as enthusiasts come to appreciate them.

-Paul

Uncategorized

1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6 2.5

We've featured a variety of Alfa Romeo Alfetta GTVs on the site, but none quite as exquisite and showroom fresh as this late model example with only 28,000 miles on the clock. With it's 2.5 liter V6, rear wheel drive and rear mounted gearbox, this is one of the best handling sports coupes of the 1980s and a clean example such as this is sure to grab everyone's attention at the next big Italian car meet.

1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6 2.5

If you missed your chance on buying an Alfa Romeo GTV6 new, well, here's your second chance. I've never seen one for sale at a price this high, but I'd wager to say this is the best one I've seen in years, in a desirable color to boot. If this car wasn't enough nostalgia for you, here is a period Alfa Romeo commercial from 1983 highlighting a similar GTV and the rest of the lineup with the tagline "The Master Car."

-Paul

Ferrari

1982 Ferrari 308GTS

The Ferrari 308 needs no introduction here at CICFS, as it is one of the most iconic Italian vehicles of the 1980s. It's performance, arresting wedge shape and sonorous V8 are still revered by Ferrari Tifosi and enthusiasts across the automotive spectrum alike. Recent values have been dipping into the range where these cars are more accessible to a wider audience. However, given this, one must approach with caution to make sure their investment doesn't go up in smoke, literally. Here is a nice, original example for sale in California with slightly higher than average mileage but looking every bit as radiant as it did when new.

1982 Ferrari 308GTS

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Up for your consideration: A very rare and beautiful Farrari 308 GTS in perfect condition inside and out, this car has all of the origional tools, extra belts and fuses as well as a brand new Farrari car cover that is micro fiber on the inside to prevent scratches. This is truley a amazing car, always garage kept and always serviced by Gary Bobilef motor cars.

I almost can't believe a car this striking is 30 years old, especially given the condition of this example. The buy it now price of $33,500 is squarely in BMW 1 series territory, and it's remarkable that something this exotic could be had for such a low price of entry. The owner sounds as if he has taken good care of it, but it would be wise to look over service records before signing on the dotted line. Also, a recent service would go a long way towards making this an even better value. If you want to try your hand at your best Magnum P.I. impression, here's your chance.

-Paul

Lancia

1957 Lancia Aurelia B24 Cabriolet

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While their current offerings are a bit underwhelming and not much more than rebadged Fiats and Chryslers, as enthusiasts, we must never forget that Lancia was a revolutionary marque right from the start. Known for their engineering prowess, they brought innovations such as the five speed gearbox and independent suspension to market and were the first with a series production V6 engine. In 1950, Lancia replaced their Aprilla sedan with the Aurelia, brainchild of famed engineer Vittorio Jano. As a precursor to Lancia's string of rally championships, the Aurelia had successful outings in the Mille Miglia and took home a 1-2-3 finish at the Targa Florio in 1952. Lancia went one step further and in a desire to create an all out sports car, developed a Spyder version in conjunction with Pininfarina. These were gorgeous machines, with flowing lines and delicate quarter bumpers. Designed with the American market in mind, only 240 of these Spyders were ever produced, making them extremely rare and desirable. Later, a convertible version of the Aurelia was released after Spyder production ended in 1955. This new open top version shared no panels with the Spyder it replaced, and 521 were produced until 1959. This cabriolet for sale in The Netherlands has undergone a restoration and is simply stunning in gray over dark red leather.

1957 Lancia Aurelia B24 Cabriolet

Superbly restored and very elegant Lancia Aurelia B24S Cabriolet. Finished in beautiful dark grey metallic with dark red leather interior and black hood. This lovely example was comprehensively restored by Aurelia specialist Clerici in Italy. It has participated in the 2006 edition of the famous Mille Miglia. These rare convertible are excellent event cars or very enjoyable for a weekend out. A welcome addition to any collection! EEC registration. FIVA passport.

As of late, Aurelia Spyders are changing hands in the $400,000 to $500,000 range at auction, and this restored example is probably no exception. While the Corvette was just making a name for itself in America and some circles in Europe, it is interesting to look back at its contemporary from Italy to see how similar, yet different, the concept of a sports car across cultures can be.

-Paul

Maserati, Modern Classic

1989 Maserati 430

With two extra doors and a longer wheelbase, the Maserati 430 was the . Similar in size (and appearance) to the BMW 3 series, it cost a whopping $16,000 more than the 325i sedan. With two IHI turbochargers and twin intercoolers, the 2.8 liter V6 was good for 225 horsepower and a 0-60 time of around six seconds. This example for sale outside of Richmond, VA is equipped with an automatic transmission and has 61,000 miles on the clock.

1989 Maserati 430

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Nice one owner example of Maserati 430. Runs and drives excellent. Everything works from seats to power antenna, no leaks. No rust, If you are looking at it you probably know everything about it. If properly maintained these late model Biturbos are solid and dependable like Mercedes. Car is located in Richmond Virginia. Reserve is $5,900.

I wouldn't fully agree with the seller with regards to the late model Biturbo reliability, but by the time the 430 came around, the Biturbo had been around for eight years. By then, at least, a few of the issues had been worked out. This 430 appears to be straight and the interior is in decent shape, so I'd wager to believe the mechanicals have been kept up in a similar fashion. It's not the most desirable Italian classic, but with 995 examples built between 1987 through 1994, this is an affordable way to sidle into exclusive and exotic motoring.

-Paul

Fiat

1939 Fiat Topolino 500A

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With the Fiat 500 barely a year old in the US market, few consumer may be aware that this car can trace its lineage back before the outbreak of World War II. Legendary Italian engineer Dante Giacosa set out to create a small car for the masses in the middle of the 1930s and came up with the 500cc Fiat Cinquecento, which quickly took on the name “Topolino,” or little mouse, in Italian. It was a revolutionary car, with an ingenious design; it’s sidevalve (and later overhead valve) inline four cylinder engine swung out ahead of the front axle. The engine only produced horsepower in the single digits and was good for a top speed of around 53 mph, but fuel economy was outstanding at almost 40 mpg. After World War II, few Italians, however, could afford the asking price of 720,000 lire, which represented a yearly salary three times over for the average worker. Nevertheless, the Topolino soldiered on until the introduction of the Nuova 500 in 1955, a car which became so much a symbol of Italy that it overshadowed its predecessor and was built under license worldwide. Our feature car for sale in Switzerland has undergone an outstanding restoration and is a one family vehicle. The car even has its original Turin license plates.

1939 Fiat Topolino 500A

In same family ownership since new! With original license plate Torino, TO-59233. Serial Number 3245TO. First registered in 1940. Totally restored in bi-coloor Beige and Black, aoriginal paint scheme. Originally the car was blue. Interior redone in red artificial leather, originally was in fabric. Soft rag top redone in original fabric. New sunroof. Engine, 500 cc, 8 hp, overhauled in 1998, driven 800 km after overhaul. Electric starter. Original Pirelly White Star Tires, installed new 800 km ago. Original documents available. Registered in Italy. Never in an accident. Approved by the ASI (Auto Storiche Italiane) registry with certificate.

At almost $20,000, this is big money for a supermini, but the historical significance of this car has me thinking that this is a fantastic value for a restored and documented example of Italian engineering ingenuity. Overall, this is a great example of a milestone car overlooked, even by some hardcore automotive enthusiasts.

-Paul

Ferrari

1984 Ferrari 512 BBi

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With the arrival of the Lamborghini Miura in 1966, Ferrari suddenly had a problem on its hands. Its lineup consisted of front engined V12 sports cars and while the mid-engined Dino arrived one year later, it packed half the number of cylinders as the V12 Miura. At the end of the Miura's life, a new mid-engined Ferrari appeared, the 365 GT4 BB. The "BB" was short for Berlinetta Boxer, a reference to the new 12 cylinder engine. While not a true horizontally opposed engine, you could almost call it that, as the angle between the cylinder heads was 180 degrees. The 365 GT4 begat the 512 BB and fuel injected 512 BBi, which gave way in 1984 to the well-known Testarossa. The Berlinetta Boxer was never sold new in the United States, but a few found their way here via third party importers. If you squint, you'd have a hard time differing the 512 BB from a 308, but they are vastly different animals indeed. Our feature car was owned for 27 years by Michael Anthony of Van Halen fame.

1984 Ferrari 512 BBi

VIN number: ZFFJA09B000047319. One of the greatest 12 cylinder Ferraris of all time, the 512 BB combines the excellent power of the melodious flat 12 with timeless Pininfarina styling. Perfect in its Rosso Corsa coat with a stunningly redone interior by Prestige Auto Upholstery this up-to-date, serviced and meticulously kept example is 50 state legal and ready to go. Owned by Van Halen rocker Michael Anthony from 1985 until now, this car has seen nothing but the best care. The odometer sports a mere 30,300Km (18,800 miles) and looks younger yet. The Campagnolo center lug wheels are excellent, the glass is clear and the paint is nearly perfect. If you’re looking for a little more flash there’s a one-off set of 18” Boyd Codington wheels which come with the car. Even on the stock rollers you’re not going to shrink into the scenery!

Mechanically the car is better than new, and when it was federalized it was done to the far more stringent California emissions standards, so this car can follow you anywhere--all EPA/DOT releases are included. There are receipts for multiple engine-out services including a full belt and reseal job fewer than 2000Km ago. When it was apart, the intake runners and various other aluminum pieces were sent out and polished for a mild custom look for the usual all-business compartment. The stock exhaust is on the car now, complete with newer catalytic converters, but we have the Tubi exhaust which was on the car a short time and is perfect. The front suspension is rebuilt, the clutch is new and the car drives like it did on delivery day.Inside, power features are everywhere. Power windows, air conditioning, a newer Alpine stereo with component speakers and a front mounted amp are there to make the cruise easier, but the real star is the upholstery.

Fernando at Prestige Auto Upholstery took the interior completely apart (we have a CD full of pictures to show the extent) and replaced every scrap of the old leather and vinyl in favor of glove smooth, intoxicatingly fragrant saddle leather. The seats were redone with black inserts for the Daytona look while the rest of the surfaces are textbook correct. The service cost more than $11,000, and you’ll never have to worry about it gumming up or warping again! All manuals, tools and the jack are included, as well as extra European lights. This car was even featured on Hot Rod TV on Speed Channel! The driving experience can’t be ignored--it’s what makes a Ferrari a Ferrari. From the sound of the engine to the feel of the shifter running through the gates to the visceral acceleration of 12 cylinders pounding away behind you, there’s simply nothing like it. Once one of the finest supercars at any price the 512 BB is now and ever shall be a world-renowned classic.

I've seen only one of these BBs in the wild stateside and they are every bit as impressive in person as they are in pictures, especially when you get an earful of the exhaust note. I was happy to read about the engine servicing, because the engine in the BB has timing belts and not chains. If these fail, it would be a very expensive headache. If I was buying this car, I'd probably sell the Boyd Coddington wheels. While the late hot rodder made some high quality wheels and cars, aftermarket rolling stock would be out of place on such a legendary supercar. The chrome intake runners under the hood add to the dramatic looking engine and mirror the beauty of the Alfa Romeo V6. Today's manufacturers could take a lesson from such engineering sculpture. It doesn't take much to make the heart of a car look beautiful.

-Paul