Category Archives: Modern Classic

Ferrari, Modern Classic

2003 Ferrari 456M Schumacher Edition

The Ferrari 456 was one of the most tame Ferraris of recent memory and brought back the idea of a grand touring Ferrari to the modern era in the US. Before the end of production, Ferrari released a limited production 456 modeled after the car that Formula 1 Champion Michael Schumacher owned. Buyers could specify this limited edition package via the Carrozzeria Scaglietti Program. Included in this "Schumacher Edition" was a two tone color scheme, special leather interior, revised instrumentation and an upgraded suspension with drilled Brembo brakes. This particular 456M for sale in San Francisco is claimed to be one of only three of its kind to make its way to US shores.

2003 Ferrari 456M Schumacher Edition

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This 2003 Ferrari 456M GT Bi colore "Schumacher Edition" is very rare with 11k miles from new! This rarest of rare Ferrari special editions is now available for your consideration. One of less than 20 total built for the world and one of only 3 known to have come to the U.S. market, this is an amazing opportunity for the discerning collector. Ordered new from The Auto Gallery in Woodland Hills for a special client and now available to you if you act fast. The vehicle is as follows:

Exterior:

Extracampanario (special order) Maserati Grigio Nuvolari exterior paint (body)
Canna di Fusille (dark grey) roof color

Interior:

Grigio Scuro leather
Grigio Scuro carpets
Bordeaux stitching

Options:

Red brake calipers
Factory battery charger
Two-tone paint scheme
Dark grey painted wheels
Drilled Brembo brake calipers
Stitching throughout in Bordeaux

The Schumacher Edition was based on the vehicle built for and given to Michael Schumacher when he won the world championship, the dominant characteristic is the two tone paint. This elegant tone on tone color mix was obtained through a special study on the chromatic tones of grey, then also applied to other exterior details such as the wheels and front grille. Ferrari went one step further and gave specialized options to the car such as new graphics for the instruments, interior leather trim, and drilled brake calipers a la the 550 Maranello. #132385 is in exceptional, almost new condition and was delivered new 02/06/04 making it one of the last 456M built for the U.S.

Normally, I'm a fan of the 456, but this special edition seems a bit too brash for my tastes. Generally, more subdued colors work well on this car versus the two tone we see here. Late model examples of the 456 can range between $60,000 to $80,000. With a reserve higher than that range, I'd assume the seller is looking for a sum closer to six figures. For what is essentially a color and trim package, will this car warrant the premium?

-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

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

6 Comments

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

4 Comments

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, Modern Classic

1988 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

5 Comments

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

Maserati, Modern Classic

1994 Maserati Ghibli

By 1994, the Biturbo was long gone from the US automotive landscape and most people had forgotten about this less than stellar period in Maserati's history. But in 1992, the famed Ghibli name was revived on a revised version of the Biturbo which would be sold until 1997, eventually making way for the 3200GT, which would go on to be the first Maserati sold in the US in 11 years, under the Coupe and Spyder moniker. Funny how some things come full circle, isn't it? This Ghibli is said to be one of two in Canada and is road legal there, due to their more lax 15 year importation threshold, rather than the draconian 25 year rule in the US.

1994 Maserati Ghibli

Very Rare and great condition Ghibli 2 GT for sale. Only 2 in Canada and this is one of them. This is NOT the Biturbo model but the Ghibli 2. Exterior is a very dark grey (almost black) and the interior is beige. The interior is completely leather and suede (no cloth) with a wooden steering wheel.

The radio and CD player work and the floor mats I had custom stitched to match the interior with the Maserati trident logo on them (not shown in the pictures). No cracks in the wood trimming and it still has the orginal Maserati gold Cartier clock in it which works perfectly. It also still has the original flare light/torch that came with the car for emergency purposes.

It is a 5 speed manual transmission and a 2.8 litre, bi-turbo engine putting out about 330+ horsepower. The brakes have been upgraded with new discs that were also slotted and new brake pads. It has been driven only in the summer here and is stored in the garage for the winter. The other Ghibli 2 in Canada was a 1991 model, had done about 71,000 kms and recently sold for $43,000. This is therefore a bargain considering the later model, lower kms and lower price.

I'm not sure if you could consider $35,000 a bargain for what is a thinly reskinned Biturbo, especially since more recent Coupes with the 4.2 liter V8 and 6-speed manual can be had regularly in the $25,000 to $35,000 range. This is also a car from a curious part of Maserati's history, one where the company found itself on the brink. Therefore, reliability and build quality aren't on par with the classics or modern day cars. Even though it has its shortcomings, I've always appreciated the more butch looks the Ghibli brings to the ordinary Biturbo formula. In just a few years, these will be legal to import to the US and hopefully a few more make their way to Canada in the meantime to make for a larger selection this side of the Atlantic.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

Always a favorite here at CICFS, the Alfa Romeo Spider is an attractive, affordable way to experience al fresco Italian motoring in its simplest form. Of all the 105 Series Spiders, the 1991-94 Series 4 model offers a curious mix of classic and modern looks with modern reliability by way of Bosch Motronic fuel injection. This Series 4 Spider for sale in South Carolina has higher mileage but has been well looked after, appearing classy in a lesser seen shade of black.

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce. Black on tan leather. Clean Carfax. 112K documented miles. 5-speed manual. Southern car. Starts right up, runs and drives strong and smooth with no issues. Condition overall is very good both cosmetically and mechanically. Engine runs quiet, pulls hard. No 2nd gear transmission crunch. Brand new Bridgestone Potenza Hi-Performance tires. Newer all leather (front, back and sides) and suede seat covers.

Paint is glossy and shiny, with a few expected door dings and paint imperfections of car of this age. Lots of new parts and standard Alfa maintenances services have been performed. IE, you will not have to have these regular items done upon purchase: new clutch master cylinder and slave, motor mounts, transmission mount, valve adjustment, head re-torque, fresh fluids/flush everywhere, new air/fuel filters, new battery, tune-up (plugs, rotor, cap), hoses, belts, thermostat, fuses, bulbs, etc. I have receipts for all the parts and services.

Head gasket is leak free, brakes are strong, clutch is super strong, power windows run fast and smooth. Canvas top looks good outside, but is tired inside (faded with some sealant patches), although the top is leak free. Full tan book cover. EVERY single electrical function and little light bulb works, except the tachometer and the AC (intact, blowers and switches work, needs recharge at the very least). 2 sets of keys (originals and spares), complete original toolkit in bag, booklet, full newer Pirelli P4 spare tire. Has detachable face Pioneer CD player, new power antenna.

The only negatives of the car are typical to Alfas of this vintage. Typical light oil leaks, but no oil burning. There is a small paint repair near rear taillight where there was rain water damage (there was a tiny common spot of corrosion here which was ground down to bare metal, treated, and painted). There is a 4x2 inch patch in the spare tire well, professionally repaired. The hood is slightly oxidized in places, and there are a few tiny rock chips on the nose. Overall, these are things one would expect for a car of this age.

All in all this is a very clean and meticulously sorted Alfa Spider. I bought the car to keep but stumbled upon a fixer upper Spider and decided to sell one. This Spider has been well maintained, and will make a very reliable car for the enthusiast who will enjoy putting guilt free miles on it. There’s at least $5000 worth of services done to this car, that will need to be done to any Alfa you buy, regardless of mileage. The tachometer can easily be removed and sent for repair at Palo Alto (it is getting signal), the AC can be charged up (I will even throw in a new, sealed fresh IAP receiver dryer). These are just things I haven’t gotten to.

I am an honest seller and an Alfa guy – this is my fifth Spider and I love fixing them up as strictly a labor of love. It truly needs nothing to drive across country. If you’d like to talk on the phone, please send me a Private Message. Car is also for sale locally in Charleston, South Carolina. Fly in and drive it home, or I’m happy to help with shipping. Car will remain garaged and insured until pick up. Title is clean, in hand. Asking $9000 or best offer - willing to negotiate, but please no low ball offers. More pics and info available upon request.

This car has more mileage than most Series 4 Spiders we've seen here, but it has been owned by an Alfa enthusiast and received the care it deserved. The seller's asking price is realistic enough, given the condition and that he seems flexible on negotiation to a point. If you're thinking about buying a play toy for the summer, now is the time to get your hands on a classic Spider to enjoy.

-Paul

Fiat, Modern Classic

1996 Fiat Coupe 16V Turbo

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Fiat was going through a bit of a renaissance in the 1990s, but few folks in the US were aware of this, given the company exited the market in 1982. While the decade didn't start off well, with two top executives in the company arrested for political corruption in 1992, the model lineup saw some characterful new models in the way of the Multipla MPV, Barchetta roadster and this car, the wedge shaped Coupe. Introduced in 1993, this was a departure from the more rounded, organic shapes emerging at the time. The car was penned by Chris Bangle, and the controversial BMW designs to come shine through in this car. Twin cam, four cylinder engines in 1.8 and 2.0 liter form were available, with turbocharging an option on the 2.0 liter engine. There was also a five cylinder engine available, also a 2.0 liter powerplant, that could be had normally aspirated or turbocharged, each engine featuring 20 valves.

This Coupe for sale in Ontario, Canada would more than likely cause headaches if would be US buyers tried to register it in their home state, but for Canadian buyers and those who might find a loophole in US regulations, it's a tempting and rare piece for anyone this side of the Atlantic.

1996 Fiat Coupe 16V Turbo

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1996 Fiat Coupe 16V Turbo. One of a handful privately imported to North America. Currently registered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Qualifies for Hagerty Collector's Car Insurance Program. Premium is less that $200 per year. Perfect condition inside and out.

VIN number is ZFA175000P0029556

Ebay listing does not allow me to enter non North American VINs. See the photo for yourself.

US Buyers: Please check with your local DMV to see what it takes to register this vehicle in your state. I have clear Canadian, Province of Ontario Title in my name which I will provide with the sale. It is up to you to have it registered in your state.
Transport of the vehicle to Niagara Falls / Buffalo, NY US border can be arranged at an additional cost.

I like this Coupe, especially in yellow. It has a very late '90s flair about it and is as visually arresting as some of the most outrageous Ferraris. Given the rarity, the seller is certainly trying to make a mint, as $12,000 for a front-drive coupe from the period with almost 70,000 miles is a bit pricey. But, for someone who wants sharp styling from the house of Pininfarina styling on the cheap and a conversation piece, this is not a bad choice.

-Paul