Monthly Archives: February 2013

Alfa Romeo

1968 Alfa Romeo 1750 Berlina

As the old saying goes, they're only original once. This Alfa Romeo 1750 Berlina was owned by the same owner from new until 2005, where it changed hands successively amongst Alfa club enthusiasts. This is and unrestored car with exception of a bit of fresh paint here and there and a few minor repairs to keep it roadworthy. This Canadian market car is for sale in Washington and is a great chance to own a piece of Alfa history at a reasonable price.

1968 Alfa Romeo 1750 Berlina

With retirement looming I've been made aware that the number of vehicles in the garage must decrease. I can’t sell the Mini so as much as I hate to do it, the 1968 Alfa Romeo 1750 Berlina is now available. It is a Canadian-market car and was purchased new in Vancouver, BC. It stayed with the original owner until 2005 when it was sold to an Alfa club member in the Portland, Oregon area. It changed hands once more in 2010 (another Portland Alfa club member) and was then purchased by me in October of 2011.

It is an original, matching-numbers car, has never been molested and has always been garaged. It is quick, quiet and comfortable with around 140,000 original miles on the odometer. The engine starts easily, runs smoothly and does not burn oil. The transmission shifts smoothly, with no grinding going into 2nd or any other gear. It’s a great running car.

For safety sake, dual door mirrors and 3-point Securon inertia-reel seat belts have been installed. The mounting holes on the front fender for the old rear-view mirror have not been patched. New clutch master and slave cylinders have just been installed and also a new battery. The 185/70 Michelin tires are almost new. It also has a new OEM-style exhaust system.

The paint is tired but pretty good for it being 45 years old. Some panels have been resprayed (after parking lot dings were repaired). It has never been wrecked. The sills were replaced a few years ago and the boxed sections were waxoyled at that time. The interior is original and in very good to excellent condition with the exception of the passenger seat on which the white stitching is failing and there is minor sun damage on the top of the rear seat back. It has the optional rear seat glove box and the blanking piece that goes in its place. The dash has no cracks and all the gauges work (except for the clock).

The Alfa is located a few miles north of Seattle. More details and photos on request. There just aren’t many unrestored Berlinas left that are in this condition. I’m asking $13,000.

A car such as this raises the question of whether to go for a more modern Alfa Romeo 164 or dabble in the real classics, as the asking price is not much higher than what clean 164s are trading hands for these days. In addition, the price of this Berlina is within reason of what these cars are currently fetching. A perfect, restored Berlina will bring close to $20,000, but this car has history and patina, which is something that is hard to come across. Overall, this is a prime opportunity for someone looking for a classic Alfa that can be used as intended, not just admired under glass.

-Paul

Lamborghini, Modern Classic

1984 Lamborghini Jalpa – REVISIT

The 1984 Lamborghini Jalpa we featured back in November has come up for sale again in Florida. It was last sold at $35,000, so in less than two months, will the owner be able to see an appreciate of $5,000?

1984 Lamborghini Jalpa on eBay - REVISIT

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The below post originally appeared on our site November 24, 2012:

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

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

Fiat

1981 Fiat 124 Spider

It's never too early to start thinking Spring, and what better to celebrate the next season than a classic Fiat roadster? This 124 Spider for sale in Miami is a later variant that had a new paint job and convertible top replaced 14 years ago.

1981 Fiat 124 Spider

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1981 Fiat Spider 124, ready to drive & enjoy! This handsome Italian car -designed by Pininfarina- is just with its third owner, after being among two members of the same family since it was first bought new in 1981.

Exterior

The black paint with pin striping was professionally done in 1998. The paint still looks very good for being almost 14 years old. There are a few areas near the wheel wells where there are bubbles under the paint (see pictures). All of the lights work and none of the plastic lenses are damaged. The horn, signal lights, brake lights and windshield wipers all work. The tires are in excellent condition and practically look new. The rims are original and were restored. The convertible top was replaced at the same time when the paint was done. It is in very good condition. The bumpers are beginning to show a little oxidizing. All the insignias are in place and the front and rear ones are new. All rubber seals are in place some have small cracks from age.

Interior

This is something unique not only because it is in great condition, but for the red color that was only applied to a limited number of units of this type, instead of the usual beige or black. The covered dashboard is in perfect condition and with no cracks. All gauges work, except the tachometer. All of the lights work and the radio is a recent Pioneer am/fm/CD. Console, seats and carpet are in excellent condition as well as showed in pictures taken just before the ad for this auction was posted. Among the interior parts replaced recently are the sun visors and arm rest chrome trim strips. Shift boot retaining ring was also replaced with a new OEM one.

Mechanical

The engine runs beautifully and it does not burn any oil. Regular scheduled oil and filter changes. Clutch works fine as does the transmission. Shifting through all gears is effortless. Emergency break works fine. Steering is fine as is suspension. As a part of mechanical restoration/maintenance, the following parts were recently replaced with new ones: Battery, original distributor cap, rotor, coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, electronic ignition module, water pump, oxygen sensor, fuel filter, brake pads, and exhaust system (including catalytic converter). The original radiator was also cleaned and restored presenting no leaks.

In general, this great car is ready to drive and enjoy with either the top up or down. Rarely and carefully driven and never out in bad weather. This car has not seen much use and has always been garage kept and pampered. 2 keys and original owner’s manual included. This car is being sold in as is condition with a clear title. Sold in “as is” condition with no warranties expressed or implied. By bidding you accept those terms. Please ask questions or come view the car to determine that it is what you expect prior to bidding. Feel free to send a message to the seller with your questions. Buyer is responsible for vehicle pickup or shipping.

These 124 Spiders offer a lot of style and oftentimes for less cash than a similar vintage Alfa Romeo Spider. These are a great starting point for the novice Italian car enthusiast, as they are not too expensive to buy and won't put you in the poor house when it comes to maintenance. One can expect to pay somewhere between $7,000 and $12,000 for a Spider like this that isn't a garage queen nor a clapped out basket case.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1991 Alfa Romeo 164

For under $15,000 these days, there's a lot of options on the used market if you are looking for a lot of style and luxury on a budget. While many buyers opt for popular German and Japanese high-end marques, there is always the road less traveled for those individualists: the Alfa Romeo 164. This was the company's last stand in the US market until the 8C Competizione sports car arrived in limited numbers in 2008. For sale in California, this 164 has the lesser seen cloth seats and hubcaps, but still cuts a dashing presence on the street.

1991 Alfa Romeo 164

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1991 Alfa Romeo 164L, low miles, one owner, Autocheck certified. Extra clean. Last of the great Alfa sedans. This Iconic Alfa Romeo 164 L has a high gloss white exterior and is matched beautifully with a gray interior. This classic motor car is in excellent original condition. This fine automobile has been lovingly cared for and it shows in its immaculate condition. This car will definitely be worth looking at. Even the pictures don t do justice for this car.

NOTE: There are reflections visible in the photos, which can be mistaken for flaws that aren't there, please ask if you have questions.

This amazing car has been sheltered and well cared in the temperate Southern California climate which is ideal for a vehicle to maintain its excellent condition. The car was never driven in harsh conditions. The car looks to be accident and rust free and is all original.

Interior:

The vibrant interior accents the exterior absolutely beautifully. The original interior is in excellent condition and unmolested in its original state; the seats hardly look sat in, the back seat looks like no one has sat in it. The dash is in flawless original condition without the typical cracking or fading expected for its age. The door panels are like new and all the carpets look as though they have never been exposed to any elements. The headliner and accents are in unblemished excellent condition. The truck mat looks as though nothing have been placed in it. The motor car has never been smoked in.

Exterior:

The exterior appears to be all original and unmolested, there is no evidence of any accidents, and the paint has the original high gloss shine with all the trim and accents in mint condition. The glass is in excellent condition without cracks. The high performance tires are in near condition.

Mechanical:

The engine runs good, the donor indicated the vehicle could use a good tune up as it wasn’t driven much. The transmission shifts very good, the brakes function well.There are no visible leaks or any other signs of neglect or abuse.

Title:

This outstanding car comes with a clean California Title

Autocheck Certification:

This Fine Alfa Romeo comes with an excellent Autocheck certification verifying a 1 owner low mile vehicle.

As an investment, it is important to understand that the prices for these cars are rising they will rise rapidly in the near future. Just like the previous generation of 1960’s and 1970’s classics have done, this upward trend will soon make these artfully crafted cars unavailable for most people.

For now this car is not only a prudent and still affordable investment, however unlike most other classics it can be enjoyed every day.

Excerpt taken from a recent business article

“There has been a surge in interest from collectors around the globe focusing on high end European luxury and sports car from the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, they are consider the next frontier of assets that will provide great return on investments, in fact some of my clients have left others markets and have put a portion of their portfolios into this lucrative classic car market, as with gold it will never be worth 0, like many stocks are these days in fact portions of the classic car market have outpaced the overall stock market.

This Alfa Romeo has reached its value point a long time ago and has been and will steadily continue to rapidly gain in value. This car has the durable reliability and build quality expected of a classic Italian sports car. All the while it actually appreciates in value as you are enjoying it for many more years to come.

If you have been looking and waiting for an exceptional classic, or for a perfect entry level classic, consider this fine example of an Alfa Romeo 164 L. This car will make you proud every time you take it out. Now is perfect time to treat yourself or someone special to a well built tastefully crafted classic Alfa Romeo..You deserve it. Feel free to come and see for yourself how exceptional this car is.

If you are interested in buying this car, call me, don’t say to yourself “I should have bought that car”, you will find most of the time the car has been sold before the auction ending from some who saw the true value of this car. Please ask all the questions you like. Although this car is in mint condition, I encourage you to come by and inspect the car or have it inspected by a professional inspection service.

Good, low mileage 164s are changing hands between $6,500 and $12,000 these days, with the sportier 164Q bringing top dollar. Since this is a "base" model 164 with the automatic, it will probably reach to the lower end of this range. I'd say somewhere around $7,000 might be enough to take this beauty home at the end of the no reserve auction.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1995 Ferrari F512M

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By 1995, it seemed as if time had passed the Testarossa by, with more organic shapes coming into the sports car mix while the wedge shapes of the 1980s faded away. Nevertheless, Ferrari gave this wide fendered sports car a final send off with the F512M in 1994. With updated styling, exposed headlamps and a slight increase in horsepower, it gave this Pininfarina masterpiece one last shout before riding off into the sunset. This red F512M for sale in Florida is like most F512Ms, in that it has been pampered and covered less than 10,000 miles.

1995 Ferrari F512M

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This 1995 Ferrari 512 M, finished Rosso Corsa with Tan leather interior, black overlays and black dashboard. The Ferrari TR was the most commercially succesful Ferrari has ever built. To reward the American Ferrari dealer body, Ferrari decided to build a limited edition final production TR, 512M , producing a total of just 75 cars, this one being # 22/75. Complete with all service records since new, original manuals, 2 original keys, tool kit and jack. This car has had 2 belt services within the 9,988 miles it has travelled, all recommended services by the factory and all recalls have been done. This car is as good as it gets. Finished in the most popular color combination, maintained exactly to factory specification, Sure to appreciate, a must for any serious Ferrari collector!

Car History

S/n 100626. Full VIN: ZFFVG40A6S0100626. F512 M. USA model. Number 22 of 75 built. New in Red with Tan leather.

1995, March, new to Ferrari of San Francisco, 595 Redwood Highway, Mill Valley, CA, 94941. As per original window sticker, priced at $195,750.

1995, 25 Mar., sold new by Ferrari of San Francisco to Steve Zelencik, Woodside, CA, 94072. Salesman: David Hellmann.

1995, 18 May, serviced under warranty for rattle in driver’s door, oil leak, install radio and CD player, A coupon warranty service, install radar detector, by Ferrari of San Francisco. Mileage: 1,152.

1995, 20 Dec., letter from Ferrari North America confirming this F512 M is number 22/75 built.

1995, 30 Nov., Speedline modular wheel assembly bolt recall by FNA.

1996, 15 Mar., wheel recall done under warranty by Ferrari of San Francisco. Tubi exhaust installed. Total service bill $4,568.50. Mileage: 2,224.

1996, 20 June, oil and filter service by Ferrari San Francisco, total bill $182.53. Mileage: 3,057.

1997, 15 May, oil and filter service, new battery, trickle charger installed, brake fluid and transaxle fluid replaced by Ferrari of Los Gatos. Total service bill: $1,150. Mileage: 4,065.

1998, 17 Mar., oil and filter service and detail by Ferrari of Los Gatos. Total service bill: $370.11. Mileage: 4,719.

1999, 23 Feb., oil and filter service, engine coolant, windshield washer fluid service, smog service, remove dash pod for leather repair, sublet recover instrument pod, by Ferrari of Los Gatos. Total service bill: $2,164.75.

1999, 23 Feb., smog check by In n out Auto Service, Campbell, CA. Mileage: 5,424.

2000, 15 Mar., oil and filter service, chassis service, fuel additive, anti–freeze service, check clock, check for wheel vibration, check for rattle, by Ferrari of Los Gatos, $757.10. Mileage: 5,822

2001, 08 Feb., 30,000 mile major service, remove and re–install engine, new cam belts and belt tensioners, new cam cover gaskets, torque heads, all fluids changed, replace all four tires with Michelin Pilot Sport, rebuild water pump, by Ferrari of Los Gatos. Total service bill: $7,826.36. Mileage 6,423

2002, 15 Mar., oil and filter service, hood struts replaced by Ferrari of Los Gatos, $781.10. Mileage: 7,410

2003, 04 Feb., smog emissions check for California smog check by Bentley of Silicon Valley. Mileage: 7,897.

2003, 30 June, serviced for seat belt recall, annual fluids change, adjust headlights, detail vehicle, by Ferrari of San Francisco. Mileage: 8,197.

2006, 29 Dec., 9,000 mile or annual service including oil, filter, coolant, transaxle fluid, windshield washer fluid, brake check by Ferrari of Silicon Valley. Total service bill: $2,075.64. Mileage: 8,277.

2006, 29 Dec., inspected and photographed by M. Sheehan.

2007, January, smog emissions check for California smog check. Mileage: 9,324.

2007, July, Engine Out Major Service Performed. Mileage: 9,409.

2009, November, 2 Year Service Performed. Mileage: 9,545.

2010, January, After Market Exhaust Replaced With Factory Muffler. Removed Radar Detector and Wires. Undercarriage and Wheel Liners Cleaned. Mileage: 9,631.

2010, October, Yearly Service Performed. Mileage: 9,909.

2011, November, Two Year Mayor Service Performed, Timing Belt Service Performed. Bill: $10,799.30 Mileage: 9,964.

2012, November, Yearly Service Performed. Mileage: 9,984.

This is one of the most comprehensive ads I've come across in a while. A detailed history such as this is paramount when buying a classic Italian exotic with such low mileage. The last F512M we featured was priced at $167,495 and had almost identical mileage. While most Testarossas have a hard time breaking six figures, it seems the F512Ms are bringing more serious coin. Personally, I'd rather have the original Testarossa, but perhaps the exclusivity that comes with having one of the last of the breed means something to certain collectors.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6

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The year 1986 would be the swan song for the Alfa Romeo sports coupe in the US market. The GTV6 became known for its entertaining handling, superb balance with its rear mounted gearbox and V6 engine with an exhaust note from the gods. These coupes represent a good bargain for those looking for a cheap thrill. This GTV6 for sale in Texas appears to be one of the last of its kind and comes with an interesting backstory.

1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6

As the story goes, Craig Morningstar, former Public Relations Director for Alfa Romeo explains it this way. "Our dealer in the Modesto area went out of business and we had to buy the car back. It was returned to our west coast point of entry Long Beach and sat outside on the docks. It was almost two years later when I convinced famed automotive journalist T.C. Browne to purchase the car. I told him it would be the last one ever sold new in the United States. Sadly, from sitting out in the southern California sun the paint had baked off the roof, the dash was cracked,etc. ect. T.C. demanded those items be put proper as factory new. Curiously he asked Alfa to re-paint the roof portion black. I agreed and we painted the roof black, replaced the dash and performed all service updates. This car is the only Alfa authorized original two tone paint scheme." The car was later sold to Squadra Nuvolari and eventually to the third owner, John Labella in Los Angeles, Ca. John put the car up for sell on auto trader in August of 2011. I have been the proud owner of a 1979 Alfa GTV since 1983 and always dreamed of owning a GTV6. When I discovered it on auto trader I was surprised and elated to find one in such good condition, and with so few miles, believing at the time that none existed. I flew to L.A. the next week and and drove it back to Austin, Texas on the sweetest road trip I have ever taken, and I have taken a few. In order to properly restore the 79 GTV, I am offering this car for what I think is a very fair price. Now is someone's chance to own a classic, low mileage GTV6 in mint condition. This car drives, handles and looks like a new GTV6. It is truely a head turner and I never take it out that someone doesn't doesn't come up asking about it. Always garaged, it comes with the original window sticker and all receipts. The front rotors have been replaced with high performance rotors and stainless steel brake lines. All maintenance by Alfa Milano,Inc. of L.A.

It's fairly easy to find a good GTV6 for sale in the $7,000 to $12,000 range. The price of this particular car took me a little off guard as it is at the very top of the range. While it has low mileage and a unique history, I have seen higher mileage GTV6s in similar condition having covered more distance. With such low mileage, it would be a shame to use a car like this on a regular basis and given its relative lack of exercise, it's a relative risk in terms of parts failure going forward. If a few thousand dollars were taking off the asking price, it could be enough to move the metal.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1993 Ferrari 348 Serie Speciale

The Ferrari 348 is a bit of a forgotten Ferrari, having succeeded the iconic 308/328 and preceded the much loved, last of the wedge shaped F355. During the 348 run, a special version was offered with club racing in mind. The Serie Speciale was a limited edition solely for the US market. One hundred examples were produced, with an increase in horsepower to 312, revised rear lamps and a larger front spoiler. A widened rear track and kevlar sport seats rounded out the package. This Serie Speciale for sale in Florida has seen action in the 1996 Challenge Series and a few other events.

1993 Ferrari 348 Serie Speciale

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1993 Ferrari 348 Serie Speciale 037/100

VIN# ZFFRG35A6P0094502

3.4 litre V-8

Five speed manual gearbox

Yellow exterior (Giallo Ferrari 102)

Black interior

Approx. 43,000 miles

Rarely available limited production Ferrari 348 Serie Speciale in a most desirable color combination of yellow with a very fine contrasting black interior. This car is in extremely nice and mostly original condition and has not only all of its original Serie Speciale features such as enhanced aerodynamcs, increased rear track width, shorter gear ratios, higher engine output and F40 style seats but also all of the 348 Challenge Series extras that were utilized on these famous single marque race cars. This automobile ran a limited amount of races in the 1996 Challenge Series and suffered no damages during its time on track. The car was then returned to the street where it has resided since.

This lovely Italian work of art was purchased by me last year from a very fastidious enthusiast who maintained an enormous binder of documents, receipts and records including period articles and the ORIGINAL factory brochure. I then had the car painstakingly detailed and checked over in anticipation of being allowed to show it at the 2013 Cavallino Classic in Palm Beach, Florida. The car was accepted and was displayed on the lawn of the famous Breakers Hotel next to a pair of 288 GTO's. The car showed very well and was awarded a 2nd place trophy.

This car runs, drives and looks fantastic and was also exercised at the Thursday track event at the Cavallino Classic trackday in the Sport Group. The car ran perfectly with no problems whatsoever whereupon it was driven back home for a minor washing before its debut on Saturday at the Concours. These limited production Ferrari's are becoming very collectable and hard to find in this condition. I suggest coming to see the car in person at which time you will be thrilled with its appearance, condition and driving experience.

The 348 has become one of those Ferraris with resale values close to where mere mortals can afford them. Of all of the 348s, the Serie Speciale and later Competizione versions bring the highest numbers. At $55,000, we're just around the top of the range of what someone would expect to pay for any 348, but with this car's history and rarity, it presents quite an opportunity to procure a thoroughbred club racer for mid sized luxury sedan money.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1966 Alfa Romeo 2600 Spider

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The Alfa Romeo Giulia Spider was one of the open roofed cars that started the American love affair with the Italian roadster. Small and lively, with it's twin cam four cylinder engine, these cars have attracted a following amongst collectors and it certainly shows, given what these cars trade hands for. Lesser known is the Giulietta Spider's big sister, the 2600. Distinguished by it's longer bonnet, four lamps at the front and graceful Carrozzeria Touring bodywork, the big Spider was motivated by a twin cam, six cylinder engine, noted for it's sonorous exhaust note. It's rare to spot one of these, even at a show, as a little over 2,200 were built. This 2600 Spider for sale in Massachusetts needs a little attention but is a solid car to start with for those looking to undertake something a bit short of a full restoration.

1966 Alfa Romeo 2600 Spider

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1962 Alfa Romeo 2600 Touring bodied Spider with only 56,850 Km, 35,500 miles, believed to be original. 2.6 liter straight 6 double overhead cam motor, 5 speed transmission. This is an original European model that I bought from a 90 year old gentleman in California 3 years ago. It is a good solid unrestored 52 year old classic car. It was repainted many years ago and the paint shows some age. Both bumpers have been rechromed along with the center grill, some of the other chrome could use rechroming. The top is like new in black cloth. The rear window is like new, clear and no cracks or coloring. The interior has had the seat covers replaced at some time. I had the original Solex carbs rebuilt along with new rubber intake pipes. The master brake cylinder was rebuilt last year. I also installed a new "123" electronic ignition and coil. The original Marelli distributor, points and cap go with the car. The fuel tank has been removed, washed and coated with "Kreem" to prevent rusting in the tank. The tires are the original type Michelin X 165Rs from Coker Tire, just a few years old with no wear. This is not a concours car but a great old classic Alfa that has survived 52 years without being molested and is all there including all the emblems. There were only 2255 made of these Touring bodied spiders from 1961 to 1968. These were the last of the big 6 cylinder Alfas made. A true classic. The current NADA average retail is $48,400. The current Hagerty average book value is $49,084. The prices of these rare Alfas have been climbing in recent years. The car is being sold as is where is.

Hagerty is just about spot on in terms of value here. A really rough 2600 Spider might run you in the mid $30k range up to about $45,000. The best of the best may bring between $60,000 and $70,000. Considering what you are getting, with the classic Alfa Romeo inline six and Touring bodywork, that is one of the better deals to be had when it comes to a classic Italian roadster.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1988 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

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They always say you aren't a true petrol head until you own an Alfa Romeo. I certainly have had the itch to buy one for quite some time and this 1988 Milano is exactly the kind of car I'd want to buy. Sadly I'm not in the market at the moment and this car, being in Washington, is on the wrong coast for me. But I still am admiring it from afar, right down to the gorgeous Benzoni wheels.

1988 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

Greetings Alfisti. My name is Shannon Low from Seattle's NW Alfa Club and I have been "stung" by the Fiat Abarth's tail, which has left a lasting desire in my head to own one very soon. I have owned 5 Alfas now as well as 5 Lancias, I am currently restoring a 77 Lancia Scorpion to euro Montecarlo specs. I used to work at the local Alfa dealership here in Bellevue from 97-99 and would describe myself as a very detail obsessed owner.

So enough of my backround and to my point. I am offering up my 1988 Milano Verde that I purchased almost 4 years ago. This car was built Jan 1988 and was sold new from Valley Imports in Bakersfield, CA in July 1988. The second owner purchased the car in January 1991 from Beach Imports in Newport Beach, CA. He then moved to WA in 1991. I will say that both the previous owner and myself are the "overly sympathetic" car owner types who have cared for this car as if it was a child. I have no qualms in saying that I feel this particular Milano is one of the finest examples you will find for sale anywhere.
I am pricing the car at $11,000. The car has a clean WA title and just passed WA state emissions in Nov (the same standards as CA) Everything works on this car including the cruise, pwr antenna, and A/C. I have practically EVERY service and parts receipt from when the car was new, organised in two binders. The car has only been serviced by Alfa Romeo specialists. Factory parts have been utilized whenever available. The car retains its original owners books w/ portfolio, factory sales brochure, complete factory tool kit, quick reference guide, factory repair manual, spare keys. Many extra parts included. Feel free to e-mail me directly to ask questions: shannonl@parkplaceltd.com or call me to chat in person 206-715-9670

1988 Milano 3.0 Summery

Current Mileage displayed 136k (Odo was replaced under factory warr at 21k in 91 however, due to a squeaking noise) -I have the documentation.
Mileage when I purchased was displayed 98k in April 2009

Items performed during my ownership:
A/C system leak repaired and recharged w/ original R12 Freon
New Koni Yellow adjustable shocks
New red rear lowering springs
New cross-drilled brake rotors and pads
Stainless brake lines
New battery and alternator
New Hi-Flo cat and exhaust center resonator w/Magnaflow rear muffler (great sound, not too loud)
New bronze windshield w/ new seal
New O2 sensor
New front lower ball joints
New door handle gaskets
Euro front grill (I have original)
Factory optional OZ Racing 3-piece wheels w/ Yokohama tires
OE Benzoni phone dial wheels all re-finished and have Continental Winter Contact tires fitted
Front seats recovered in factory Monza cloth-Recaro embroidered in red now
Blower motor bearing replaced and screen fitted to prevent leaves from entering chamber
Piaa Extreme white bulbs fitted to factory headlamps-for much improved light output
Momo steering wheel and shift knob -originals available
Custom floor mats
Silver tech fabric all weather fitted car cover
JVC CD player/Sirius sat radio installed/i-pod-USB (I have original Clarion Alfa am/fm cassette as well)
All speakers replaced w/ quality new ones in factory locations-looks stock
Redline gearbox fluid
New driveline donuts and center support
-Other maintenance performed includes normal wear and tear items replaced as needed and servicing as needed. Timing belt/valve adjust are coming up on being due (I can get a discount on this service and parts)
Some rock chips to hood edge and front valance as well as front side of rear fender flairs.
(These can be airbrushed professionally for around $500)

Other major items worth mentioning from previous owner.
-Upper end rebuild at 96.8k miles in 11/04 by Ferrari of Seattle
-Clutch, ABS accumulator, and radiator replaced at 84.6k miles in 10/01

This has to be absolutely the best Milano that I have seen stateside. Not just in condition, but in looks, as the color and wheels set off the sharp lines perfectly and this one also has the rear lowering springs of non-US market cars. I honestly think this is one of those few times that I would pay full price of $11,000, just to have the best of the best. It seems the seller has a few offers already, but the car still is technically on offer. I'm guessing this one won't last.

-Paul

Fiat

1963 Fiat Abarth 2300S Coupe Works

The Fiat 2300S was a curiously styled car, almost appearing as a sort of Italian Plymouth Barracuda. The sportier variant of what was then Fiat's top sedan, this coupe. As was the case with many Italian cars of the time, the sedan and coupe were penned by two different styling houses. Pininfarina was responsible for the sedan's looks while Ghia was contracted to design the coupe. At the time Ghia did not have the production capacity, so construction of the coupes was contracted to Officine Stampaggi Industriali (OSI).

Not a car you'd necessarily envision as a competition vehicle, this 2300S has been worked over by the boffins at Abarth and helped carry famed racing driver Paul Frere to a win at the 12 hours of the Nürburgring.

1963 Fiat Abarth 2300S Coupe Works

There were originally only three of these cars. The car was approved on 06.08.1963 by Abarth and re-registered on 03.02.1966 by FIAT SPA in Torino since Fiat took over Abarth. It later went to a collector in the Aosta Valley and finally came to Heilbronn Kirchausen in 1998.

The car had very successfully taken part in major races such as 12 hour Nürburgring (Paul Frere) class win and second overall and Tour d'France and Tour of Europe (Golderer/Peter Falk). The car was completely dismantled and sandblasted. Doors, hood and trunk lid were replaced with aluminum. The engine, with its three Weber twin carburetors was rebuilt and the engine now produces 186 hp at 6498 rpm and 210 Nm of torque at 4992 rpm. The 5-speed gearbox and limited slip differential were completely overhauled and the specially made Koni Suspension rebuilt. The original plexiglass windows were frosted and also had to be replaced. For safety, the passenger compartment is reinforced with a roll cage and a racing fuel tank system installed. Of course the car has MOT and FIA papers. More pictures and information can be found in our "press reports."

The 2300S coupe itself is not a common Fiat. Add the Abarth tuning into the equation and you have one rare piece. A standard 2300S coupe might bring somewhere between $30,000 to $50,000. We've seen smaller vintage Abarths bring close to six figures, and the asking price of over $337,000 is eye watering. While it has an impressive race history, I'm not sure the seller will realize this high price. If the car was for sale around $100,000, I could maybe see it. But at the asking price, we are now in solid Ferrari and Lamborghini territory.

-Paul