Monthly Archives: November 2012

Lancia

1977 Lancia Scorpion

Sold but for two years, the Scorpion was easily forgettable during Lancia's brief appearance in the US market. This was a neat mid-engined car with a twin cam, 1.8 liter four cylinder engine and striking good looks by Pininfarina. This example is for sale in California has had but two owners and has recently been used as a daily driver, if you could imagine that.

1977 Lancia Scorpion

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This listing is for a 1977 Lancia Scorpion. I'm the second owner. I purchased from the original owner in Northern California. I owned this car for nine years and it has been my daily driver since. When I purchased this vehicle it had 95,353 miles and started back to zero. I did all the work with the exception of the sunroof. Following is the work done:

IN THE PAST MONTH: Four new Kuhmo Solus tires, 185/70-13 with wheel alignment. New custom sunroof with canvas material, the same used in Porsches and Mercedes. New distributor cap, rotor and magnetic pick-up and Bosch Platinum spark plugs.

LAST TWO YEARS: New clutch, pressure plate, throwout bearing, pilot bearing and rear main seal. Rebuilt starter, alternator and new solid state voltage regulator. Complete valve job that includes: new valve stems, new valve guides and head pressure tested. Water pump and timing belt. Radiator complete honeycomb core redone.

AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE: Replaced windshield with Pilkington glass with professional installation and rubber seal around.

IMPROVEMENTS: Replaced old point and condenser distributor with an electronic one from later Lancia model. Old plastic coolant reservoir replaced with stainless steel. Spare tire holder replaced with a made support that gives better hold and easy access for maintenance.

NOTICE: All smog equipment has been removed from vehicle and cosmetically cover all orifices. That makes the car perform exceptionally well. Top speed 110 mph and I have two speeding tickets to prove it. This car was not originally destined to run with all this smog equipment. It makes it a lame duck. The car has current California registration until November 2013.

This looks to be a very well kept Scorpion and with a lengthy history on the west coast, it stands a chance that this could be one of the more rust free vintage Lancias you could find roaming American roads these days. Scorpions are surprisingly affordable and have been likened to bargain Ferraris on more than one occasion. Anywhere between $5,000 to $10,000 will net you a good one. I'd suspect this example, due to the mileage, will wind up somewhere around the $6,000 to $7,000 mark.

-Paul

Maserati

1989 Maserati Spyder

If the Maserati 430 we featured last Saturday was a bit tame for you, then have a look at its open roofed sibling, the Spyder. Hailing from the same model year, this Biturbo with a shortened wheelbase and shared the same, troublesome biturbo V6 with its four-door counterpart. These Spyders carry a bit of a premium over the hardtop Biturbos, but are still rather affordable for enthusiasts of more modest means. This Spyder for sale in Washington State is a pretty original example and like most Biturbos, has low mileage for its age.

1989 Maserati Spyder

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This Maserati is in outstanding condition and runs strong with the quick response one would expect from a European car. The paint is original and still as beautiful as the day it was new, there are small blemishes and a couple small door dings. The rims are aluminum with no curb rash. Every item from the power windows to the gages are operational. The Maserati signature clock shows no ware and works (it does however loose a bit of time). The interior is clean. The seats are a combination of leather and suede, the suede shows light wear, I have new suede from Marerati that comes with the car. The soft top fits tight but has two small rub marks that do not leak or allow light to show through. The McIntosh stereo system is fully functional and rocks. The power amp, equalizer, and CD player are in the trunk. The car is built to run and does a great job doing so. The car is just plain fun to drive and attracts attention wherever it goes.

The thing about most Biturbos with low mileage is that many spent countless hours in the shop sorting out the nettlesome mechanicals. When running right, they can be rewarding cars, but as with most Italian exotics, a moment of pleasure can equal a lifetime of pain. This Spyder is attractive because it has the 5-speed manual gearbox and is in presentable condition with original paint. You might see the odd museum quality Spyder fetch over $10,000, but if this car gets to that figure, that probably will be all she wrote.

-Paul

Fiat, Revisit

1983 Fiat Ritmo 130TC Abarth – REVISIT

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The Fiat Ritmo Abarth 130TC we featured in the summer is back up for sale with no reserve. While it is rare, I doubt the sale price will come close to the $23,500 the owner was seeking a few months ago:

1983 Fiat Ritmo Abarth 130TC on eBay - REVISIT

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The below post originally appeared on our site July 2, 2012:

Hot hatches were all the rage in the 1980s and Fiat's answer to the GTI was a series of hot Ritmos (known as the Strada in the US) tuned by Abarth. The final evolution in the Ritmo Abarth saga, the 130TC, packed a 2.0 liter twin cam, dual carb four cylinder engine capable of 128 horsepower. We've featured two 130TCs here at CICFS already, but this is the first one that has appeared on US shores, making it attractive for Abarth fans who want something just a little different than the 500 Abarth currently being offered by the company today.

1983 Fiat Ritmo 130TC Abarth

Fiat Ritmo Abarth 130TC (2 liters), 5-speed. VIN : ZFA138A0002968221. 1983 model, 69,000 miles, very good condition. No dents or dings, see pictures. Like new! Had no major accidents, original Recaro seats (optional). Perfect interior, all original. Two owners from new. Drives fantastic. Top speed 195 km/h (121 mph). 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph): 7.6 seconds. The car has a Florida title, imported from Europe in 2012.

In 1984 Fiat released the final production model of the Ritmo, the 130 TC Abarth. The car is based on the Ritmo 2 body, but contains exciting modifications. Abarth modifications to suspension and engine gave this car ample quantities of both acceleration and handling. The 125TC (130TC predecessor based on Ritmo 1 shell) won the 1982 Italian Group A Championship. The Ritmo 130TC was with Group N rallying in mind, and when released in 1984, was the quickest production hatch available.

The Ritmo 130TC was produced between 1984 - 1988 , developed 130 bhp at 5900 rpm, and could sprint to 100kmh in just under 8 seconds. This car had a very firm ride that some people would have found uncomfortable. The optional Recaro seats look the business but lack lumbar and under thigh support. They do offer good lateral support while cornering . One cannot help but wonder what the 131 Rally's 16 valve head may have added to this already impressive equation.

The last 130TC we featured for sale was priced at about $11,000, and that was located in Italy. Is $23,500 the price of unobtanium these days? For this Fiat, I doubt it. While it is certainly in good shape and quite possibly the only example of its kind in the US, that doesn't necessitate such a huge markup. It seems the seller is hoping to recoup the shipping and importation costs while making a tidy profit. With a market for a car this small, this price is just way too out of the ballpark.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1959 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint

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When a manufacturer introduces a new car range, a sedan is usually the first to be unveiled. Not so with the Alfa Romeo Giulietta. The Giulietta Sprint coupe was the first model in the range to appear, unveiled at the Turin Motor Show in 1954. With an all alloy twin cam four cylinder and tidy Bertone styling, this was an advanced car for its time. While the Giulia GTV that succeeed it might have eclipsed it in popularity, these cars have merit in their own right. This mint example for sale in Illinois is a great opportunity for someone looking for a car they can use or show right out of the box.

1959 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint

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Beautiful Giulietta Spring with a 1600 engine with twin Webers and 5-speed transmission. No rust California car. Painted many years ago and still shows really well. Interior redone with seats from a '67 GTV. The car is also equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes, Centerline sport springs, headers and sport exhaust.

Prices for Sprints these days are hovering around $40,000, so for a clean example such as this, the asking price isn't way out of line. These cars are known for their tedious electronics and, like all Italian cars, propensity to rust, so a thorough inspection would be a must.

-Paul

Uncategorized

1967 Iso Grifo 7.0

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Renzo Rivolta, the engineer behind Iso, got his start by manufacturing refrigerators in 1939. Hence the name Iso, deriving from the name "Isothermos." Eventually the company moved onto motorcycle and scooter production, followed by microcars such as the Isetta, which was licensed by BMW. With the help from Giotto Bizzarrini, Rivolta went about creating his first attempt at a sports cars, powered by a 327 cubic inch V8 from the Chevrolet Corvette. Called the Rivolta, this car was achingly beautiful, having been designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro during his stint at Bertone.

The follow on to the Rivolta was the Grifo, built on a modified Rivolta chassis and powered by the same small block Chevrolet engine. Later on in the production run, the small block engine gave way to the big block Chevrolet 454 engine. With a fastback body and engine pushed rearward into the cabin, this car has a much more hunkered down versus the Rivolta, which was more of a luxury coupe. For sale in New York, this Grifo comes with an interesting history and a few modern updates.

1967 Iso Grifo 7.0

Ruby Red with Tan leather interior, 5 miles since restorations, ZF 5-speed transmission and air conditioning. This 7.0 Liter Grifo, “The Ennezeta” is believed to be the last Grifo remaining on the assembly line when the factory closed in 1974. It is well known in Iso Owner’s Club circles. It was completed sometime thereafter by a well known fabrication firm, Ennezeta, established by several former Iso employees. The car was VIN number (223225). Beyond the unique history, the car incorporates several distinct characteristics from other Grifos, these include a lower profile hood than big-block Grifo’s and lower valance panels including rear brake cooling ducts. Combined with the vibrant color set off by the brushed aluminum trim, the car has tremendous presence. The car was honored most recently as part of Quail Lodge’s 50 Anniversary commemoration of Iso automobiles.

The car is well known to Autosport Designs where the car was purchased in 2003 by its present owner. The present owner undertook a number of upgrades completed by Autosport Designs to make it well suited for long distance touring. These included the addition of a stereo and trunk-mounted CD changer with the controller discretely placed in the ashtray and rear speakers placed in leather trimmed enclosures beneath the rear parcel shelf, electronic ignition and a Richmond six speed transmission. The original ZF 5-speed is included with the car. Price: $265,000.

This Grifo is in good shape, but I'm not exactly certain why the seller has this advertised as a 1967. This car is being described as one of the last Grifos to emerge from the factory, in addition to having the later big block engine. I'm guessing this is probably a 1974 model, given that was the last year of Grifo production. However, with the earlier front end styling, it could be an earlier production model with later updates. Whatever this car might be, there are questions that need to be answered.

The market for Grifos ranges roughly from $150,000 to $250,000. Given the unique history of this car, I'm surprised the owner made so many modifications, even if it makes the car more drivable. At least the original ZF transmission is included. It's not surprising the asking price is well over $200,000, but whether an exotic with an obscure badge will command the asking price remains to be seen.

-Paul

Maserati, Modern Classic

1989 Maserati 430

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The 430 was Maserati's attempt in the late 1980s to challenge the likes of BMW and Mercedes in the compact executive car market. An evolution of the oft maligned Biturbo, the 430 added an extra set of doors and a longer wheelbase to appeal to a broader market. It was a futile attempt, and less than 1,000 were built between 1987 and 1994. This 430 for sale in Florida has low mileage, but with little in the way of a description from the seller, would it be crazy to give this motor even a passing glance?

1989 Maserati 430

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Maseratis of this era represent a cheap way into an exotic marque. The interior and exterior of this 430 look very well kept, but what about the mechanicals. A picture of the engine bay hasn't been provided by the seller, which raises some red flags in my book. But, this could very well be a mechanically sound motor. If a knowledgeable mechanic could give this car a clean bill of health, then someone is about to get a bargain.

-Paul

Lamborghini, Modern Classic

1984 Lamborghini Jalpa

When people think of Lamborghini, they remember the greats such as the Miura, Countach and Diablo. Along with the early grand touring coupes and off-road LM002, there was the Jalpa, a derivative of the mid-engined V8 Urraco of the 1970s. A limited number of these sports cars were produced in an effort to bring Lamborghini ownership to a wider audience. This Jalpa for sale in New Orleans has under 20,000 miles on the clock and is for auction at no reserve.

1984 Lamborghini Jalpa

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1984 Lamborghini Jalpa with Targa top and rear wing. This is one of an estimated 50 Jalpa's remaining. Only about 400 were ever built, and that was nearly three decades ago. I think this car is potential museum quality car with the original paint being in near perfect condition. There are no dents or scratches in the paint, nor have there been. The interior is all original and is supple with no cracks or tears.

The engine is a brand new rebuild from the leading Lamborghini Jalpa expert, at a cost of over $25,000.00. New clutch, and braided lines. Four two barrel carburetors. New powdercoated axles, stainless exhaust system, polished aluminum water tank and fuel filter and too much else to list. All new MSD electronics from ignition to alternator. All original wheels and brakes, with new coil over shocks from Italy. This is a California car, with no rust. Only driven 657 gentle miles a year since new (18,409 mi).

This is a rare opportunity to own a true piece of Lamborghini history in authentic original condition. There are approximately ten times more Countach than Jalpa's left in the world. Countach have now been listed for over $200,000.00 US and going up. There were 338 Miura's produced, which are similar production numbers to the Jalpa. They have been listed at over $1,000,000.00 US. Of the few left, this is by far the nicest Jalpa I have seen, and is offered here at a mere pittance of expected value.

We will assist with shipping any where in the world, but buyer pays all shipping costs. Sold as is where is, all pre bidding inspections are invited. Inspectmyride.com is one company, but personal inspection is preferred. I have clean clear title in hand. Cash only or bank wire, no trades of any sort. Good luck bidding. (the actual Vin number cannot be included in ebay boiler plate as EBAY is not equipped to handle low production Exotics with European VINs. This car is number 98. ZA9J00000ELA12098. Also, there is a very old plate on the back of the car from a decade ago I forgot to remove before photos. We are not affiliated with that company).

Even though the Jalpa is just as rare as the Miura, the desirability isn't as high. That's not to say that the Jalpa is a bad car. It's just that the Miura was that good. The Jalpa represents the cheapest way into a Lamborghini short of a Pontiac Fiero based kit car, with prices starting in the low $30,000 range and sometimes reaching into $40,000 territory. These cars have a good bit of 1980s cool about them with their rear spoiler and flared bodywork.

As a Philadelphian, it would be remiss if I didn't mention the appearance the Jalpa made in Rocky IV, replete with the "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" license plates that technically, were not grammatically incorrect but overly verbose:

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1974 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000

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The Alfa Romeo GTV 2000 was the ultimate expression of the type 105, succeeding the GTV 1750 in 1971. These are some of the most handsome coupes that Alfa Romeo has ever produced. Not a flamboyant design, but so utterly tasteful that to this day, they still look fresh. This 1974 GTV 2000 for sale in Texas is a tasty little number, with Panasport wheels that compliment the clean, silver bodywork.

1974 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000

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1974 Alfa Romeo GTV 2.0. Silver metallic over black, rust free, a real survivor.

Equipped with:

2 litre 4 cylinder twin cam
Dual Weber carbs - replaced fuel injection
Headers
5-speed manual transmission
4 wheel disc brakes
Panasport wheels
Wood steering wheel
Adjustable headrests
Full gauges
Dunlop 195/65 14 tires
Full spare with jack
Owner's manual
Euro spec body, small bumpers and front side markets filled

Exterior:

One respray of original color over straight body - looks great
Excellent gaps on doors, hood, trunk
Good glass and chrome
Great lines on a unique automobile - Euro look and wheels are a knockout

Interior:

Original seats and door panels look great
Dash pad is in wonderful shape
Carpets are clean and look good
Original headliner shows some age but is very nice
All gauges working
Just like it was when it was new

Mechanical:

Starts right up - runs smoothly
Transmission shifts easily
Pulls very strong
Brakes are excellent
Tires like new
Everything works correctly
Hood release cable is loose - hood can still be opened
Super solid drive anywhere car
Owner claims original miles
Super fun to drive Italian sports car

One of the nicest you can find.

These days, a good GTV 2000 will bring around $25,000 to $30,000 on average, and this well kept example shouldn't be too far out of that range. These cars make great practical classics, as a well sorted one can be reliable enough for regular use while offering up enough performance to keep up with modern day traffic.

-Paul

Ferrari

1966 Ferrari 330GT 2+2

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When people think of Ferrari, images of red, mid-engined sports cars and Formula 1 victories instantly come to mind. It's a shame, then, that the large, grand touring machines that Ferrari has made over the years tend to get glossed over a bit. The Ferrari 330 was the car that carried the luxury coupe torch for the marque throughout most of the 1960s. The 330 GT 2+2 was the most unique of all the 330s, as it had significantly changed sheetmetal, a longer wheelbase and five speed manual transmission. This 1966 330 GT for sale in Connecticut was originally sold in Europe and had an engine rebuild 15 years after it left the factory.

1966 Ferrari 330GT 2+2

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1966 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2. Serial number 7889. Desirable later single headlight version. Very rare and attractive paint color with black leather and red carpets. Odometer shows 98,000 kilometers (61,000 miles) which is believed to be correct. Has original numbers-matching motor which runs out very nicely. Car was originally sold in the Netherlands or Belgium. It has a sun roof tastefully installed which I believe was done at the selling dealer Garage Francorchamps or possibly at the factory. There is a tag riveted in the engine compartment stating the motor was rebuilt by Piet Roelofs in 1981. The underside of the car is clean, nice and rust free. The whole car shows and drives well and is in "very nice driver" condition throughout except for the following MINOR flaws- small chip in windshield, a few small holes in the rear of the exhaust system., and the paint has some minor lifting (bubbles but not rust ) in a few small areas. The car is located in the northwestern corner of Connecticut about 75 miles north of New York City.

At the high end, a 330GT brings around $80,000 to $100,000. While it isn't a concours example, this car presents well and would make a great car for someone looking to enjoy their investment. The color is sublime and cuts a very gentlemanly dash. If I was to buy this car, I'd certainly want more in the way of documentation, such as more definitive evidence on which country this car came from and what maintenance over the years had been performed. That said, this car may bring somewhere between $60,000 to $70,000.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1978 Alfa Romeo Alfetta GT

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Few things get the heart of an car enthusiast racing than a red Alfa Romeo. Whether it's a classic Spider of the more recent 8C Competizione, these cars exude automotive passion like none other. I've always been partial to the Alfetta GT and later GTVs of the 1980s. This red Alfetta GT for sale in Oklahoma comes from an owner with five other Alfa Romeos looking to downsize his collection.

1978 Alfa Romeo Alfetta GT

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We've enjoyed this Alfetta for the last 7 years,but the other 5 Alfas need some attention,so it's time to thin the herd. This is a rust free car that runs and drives great. Over the years I've replaced about all the wear parts from the engine & tranny mounts,brakes,suspension,all drive shaft components, etc., new exhaust system with Euro manifolds.New headliner and battery. The seats need redone and there are cracks in the top of dash. The car was repainted and is holding up well.

While the later GTVs with their V6 engines tend to command a bit more in value, the earlier four cylinder Alfetta GTs are a relative value and just about as entertaining on the road. For a clean GT, expect to pay somewhere between $5,000 and $9,000. I'd suspect with this vehicle's history and condition, we're looking at around a $5,500 to $6,000 car.

-Paul