Category Archives: Modern Classic

Maserati, Modern Classic

2005 Maserati Coupe GT

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The Maserati Coupe GT has turned out to be one of the used car bargains of the last decade. What was originally a car costing over $80,000 has now come down to a range where you can find second hand BMW 3 series and Mercedes-Benz C classes. While maintenance can sometimes be an issue, most of the problems boil down to the Cambiocorsa gearbox, which require frequent clutch replacements. Luckily, you can have a Coupe GT with a 6-speed manual and avert many of those issues. This red Coupe GT for sale in San Francisco is just one of those 6-speed coupes, having covered just shy of 25,000 miles.

2005 Maserati Coupe GT

An Executive Q-ship! Very unique 6 speed MANUAL Maserati Coupe GT in stunning red with a black interior and just 25,000 miles from new! The Skyhook suspension has been thoughtfully modified with lowering springs, and the car has a full (beautiful-sounding) Larini exhaust (stock exhaust included), and a Performance Dynamics Throttle Response module. With desirable options like the Auditorium 200 audio system, aluminium pedals, red contrasting stitching, navigation, factory fire extinguisher, and factory floor mats , this exquisite Italian beauty offers Ferrari-lelvel performance and looks at a Maserati price. This car has just been serviced and had brand new tires installed - it is ready to be driven and enjoyed!

The asking price is a little high for a Coupe GT 6-speed, but given this is a dealer it isn't too surprising. Over time, these cars will no doubt require a bit more care, attention and money than a similar German or American sports car, but for the entry price much less than a Ferrari, I view these as a great buy and certainly one that might appreciate over years to come.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1994 Alfa Romeo Spider Commemorative Edition

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The end of the 105/115 Series Alfa Romeo Spider came in 1994. This was a rather somber occasion, not just because it marked the end of a production run spanning four decades, but Alfa Romeo's exit from the US market would come one year later. For its final year, Alfa Romeo introduced the CE, or Commemorative Edition, of which only 190 were produced. Included in the package was a special badge on the nose, CE badging on the rear, gold center caps on the wheels and burl wood interior trim. These CE Spiders don't come up for sale all too often, so this one on offer in Florida represents an opportunity to get the Spider in its ultimate form.

1994 Alfa Romeo Spider Commemorative Edition

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This is an absolutely beautiful, Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce CE, Folio Green. The car is number 164 of 190 produced for 1994 the last year Alfa Spiders were imported into the usa. These special models have serialized dash plaques, gold wheel cap centers, wood shift knobs and wood door panels. The Commemorative Edition are becoming very collectable and almost impossible to find. Just think about this, there were thousands of spiders produced every year before 1994 but only 190 the final year. I believe this is the only CE advertised for sale in the entire USA.

The rear window and top are perfect, as is the tan top boot cover. All of the accessories work, including the air conditioning. Just under 57,000 miles. Books and manuals present. Drives absolutely perfect. No shakes, rattles or anything else out of the ordinary. Paint is exceptional Interior is as nice as the exterior. Tan leather and suede seats are near perfect. All of the gauges work as they should. No warning lights. Mechanically, the car is outstanding . It starts immediately warm or cold. Valve train is quiet with no excessive ticking. Oil pressure is good. No smoking whatsoever. The car revs freely and feels good as you row through the gears. which change easily with no grinding or hang ups in any gear. All 4 wheels are unmarred and the tires have 90% tread left. Car has the original Alfa Romeo radio.

The series 4 spiders (1991-1994) are the last and arguably the best produced. If you are looking for a truly special Alfa Spider look no further this is the car that will give its new owner much joy with stunning looks, fun to drive characteristics and will surely appreciate over time. Whether you are driving through winding roads or down to the beach motoring pleasure awaits you. I also have 2 low mileage 1991 spiders for sale a red/tan and silver/tan.

Prices for good, Series 4 Spiders seem to be creeping up slowly, and the CE will certainly be a favorite of many collectors for years to come. At almost $20,000, I think we are shooting for the moon here a bit. If this car had under 40,000 miles we might edge close to that figure, but as is, we're probably somewhere around $15,000 in terms of a realistic number to place on this car.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1986 Ferrari 328GTS

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Similar to the Countach we featured yesterday, the 1970s begat some Italian sports cars that became icons of the 1980s. Along with cut sweatshirts, Italo Disco and Nintendo, the Ferrari 328GTS defined an era of fast living. Introduced in 1986, this was a revision of the 308 with a 3.2 liter V8 pumping out 270 horsepower. Most 328s you see are painted in Rosso Corsa, so this 328GTS for sale in Florida painted in Azzuro Blue stands out a bit.

1986 Ferrari 328GTS

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Unfortunately, the seller doesn't provide much detail about this car other than basic specs. Prices for the 328GTS tend to range from $30,000 to $50,000. At this asking price, I'd expect a bit more color on the provenance of this car, namely what servicing has been carried out, as almost 50,000 on a Ferrari of this vintage is no mean feat. Also, the color may do it no favors when it comes to resale value, as collectors tend to prefer the usual black, red or yellow. Still, it's always neat to see these popular sports cars in a color other than red.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1999 Ferrari F550 Maranello

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It's true, we just featured an F550 Maranello on Christmas Day, but I can never get enough of this grand touring machine from the town where it gets its name. This silver F550 for sale in California is pushing 40,000 miles and is being sold at a price that is getting closer and closer to reality for some collectors.

1999 Ferrari F550 Maranello

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1999 Ferrari 550 Maranello. Argento Nurburgring (Silver Metallic) with Black Power Daytona Seats. Scuderia Shields, red brake calipers, 6-Disc CD changer, remote keyless entry, Tubi exhaust (smog legal), two California owners, books, tools and full records (back to new). Excellent service history. Major Service Including Timing Belts and New Brakes 47 Miles Ago (August 2012). No accidents, clean Carfax.

Notes: As you probably know, the interiors of this model do not age well. The dash in this car was redone once. It is in good shape today, but has some shrinkage above the gauge binnacle and on the passenger air bag cover. The interior switches, which get sticky, have been fixed or replaced as needed. Overall, the interior shows some wear and is a 7 out of 10. For this era of Ferrari, that's pretty good.

The fact that this car has had a recent service is huge and goes a long way towards justifying the seller's price. I like these F550s in silver, but a red leather interior would make a car like this pop more, even if it already has a V12 and impressive performance figures.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1998 Ferrari F550 Maranello

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What better a vehicle to feature for Christmas than a red Ferrari? Of all the Ferraris from the last twenty years, the F550 is the one that I would want to see under my tree for the holidays, offering modern performance in a classic front-engined, rear-drive setup. In classic Rosso Corsa, this F550 for sale in California has done 20,000 miles and is a stunning example of a period in Ferrari's history that saw the sun set on traditional manual gearboxes.

1998 Ferrari F550 Maranello

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1998 Ferrari 550 Maranello, perfect around town, ferocious roaring between towns.

1998 Ferrari 550 Maranello. Finished in classic Rosso Corsa over Tan hides, the 550 Maranello has been driven only 20,838 pampered miles! It has had two previous owners, However the first owner never drove it (100 miles when sold). It is in excellent condition inside and out! Books, keys and service records on hand! If you are looking for a lovely 550 Maranello to add to your stable, your search ends here! This Ferrari has the right color and has been well-maintained.

THE BODY AND TRIM

The body oozes pure sex! Silky smooth sleek lines! All of the body panels are in excellent shape. The tires are relatively new. the glass an all trim is in perfect shape. There is some small rock chips in the front end which is expected of a car this low to the ground. keep in mind in 1998, clear protective film wasn't the miracle protector it is now.

THE INTERIOR

The interior is quintessential Ferrari, gorgeous Tan leather Hides, rich carpeting. These cars are notorious for the leather dashes shrinking. As such the leather dash has all been redone. Dials are huge and instantly readable! The seats are supple and in excellent condition. Drilled foot pedals, shift knob is an aluminum ball on a chromed stalk and a stainless steel shift gate.

THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE

Ferocious power, and that lusty V-12 keeps pouring it on from each shift until red line in any gear. It is also two cars in one. In softer, sedate hands, it tools around town, breathing gently in its first four gears. It's light on the clutch, easy to shift; the steering is powered and well-balanced, and only tiptoes are needed for braking. She is a tame horse. Want spirited driving? Push the car and let it know who's the boss. Then it becomes a bronco spirited, vital and very, very quick.

The range of around $60,000 to $85,000 is the sweet spot for asking prices of F550 Maranellos. If this car's servicing is up to date, this isn't a bad value when it comes to an F550, but as we all know, these are not cheap cars to maintain. If the car is in need of a service, then a bit of negotiating will have to take place. At these prices, I would wager to say this is about as cheap as F550s will get for quite some time, as collectors will start to yearn for the more visceral, modern classics from Ferrari with this V12 coupe squarely in their sights.

-Paul

Maserati, Modern Classic

2005 Maserati Quattroporte

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If you've got roughly $35,000 to spend for a luxury sedan, many options await. If you're looking for a new car, BMW just redesigned their 3 series, Cadillac has a new small sedan, the ATS and there's the good old standby, the Mercedes-Benz C class. If you are boring, you can buy a Lexus ES350. But if you want to get something that's bespoke and will have people talking at the country club, you can stretch your dollars more in the used market and buy this: a Maserati Quattroporte. With its Ferrari 4.2 liter V8 engine, no one will miss hearing you when you arrive while you are ensconced in the comfort of the finest Italian leather. This Quattroporte for sale in Texas has a done a little over 30,000 miles and is the perfect accessory if you want to play the role of mafia hit man.

2005 Maserati Quattroporte

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2005 Maserati Quattroporte. 30,000 miles, 4.2 liter V8, 400 horsepower. $116k original MSRP! 100% Carfax/Autocheck Certified. 100% ready. Front & rear heated seats, power sunshade, DuoSelect transmission, optioned with Cuoio Sella Leather Package. Factory equipped w/ Skyhook Active Suspension. This is a well maintained and serviced vehicle. It is part of a 3-car collection we are selling for a client of ours.

I love the Quattroporte. One of my good friends bought one earlier this year and enjoys it thoroughly. It has just made me want one even more. While $32,500 seems like good value for this caliber of vehicle, keep in mind the clutch replacements for the automated manual gearbox come more often than on a regular transmission and will cost you several thousands of dollars. Even still, for me, it would be worth it knowing first hand what a aural and tactile sensation this car is to drive.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1995 Alfa Romeo 164Q

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California is a state known for its car culture. No matter your fancy, it's a great place to go looking for classic and modern cars on the used market. Just last week, we featured a low mileage Alfa Romeo 164LS for sale in Pleasanton. Today, here is the sportier Q version of the 164, a clean, one owner example for sale in Pleasant Hill that is allegedly one of the last of its kind to be sold here in the US.

1995 Alfa Romeo 164Q

ALFA LOVERS - this is a one of a kind! MUST SEE! One of the last five 164Q imported in the US (1995), with ONLY 88,300 miles, mostly highway! I've been the sole owner since, kept the car ALWAYS in garage, very well maintained and serviced with all records. Currently with: NEW tires with allignment, NEW battery, NEW fuel line, NEW fog lights, new muffler, clear smog check, fully serviced (all fuels) with clear title in hand. NEVER in an accident. Immaculate interior, seats like new, (can count on one hand how many times people set in back). NEVER smoking inside. Smells like a new car still! Exterior in great condition with only a minor scratch on rear bumper. The car looks great and runs GREAT! It is truly a one of a kind - destined to be a classic in the Alfa line and Alfa world! Must sell due to changes in commute and relocation. ONLY very interested buyers please! Form of payment: cashier's check or money order.

The 164LS we featured last week sold for $9,999. This 164Q has almost the same mileage with a price about $2,000 more. Whether or not you favor the sportier Q over the luxury LS version is a matter of taste. Both this car and the LS have 5-speed manual transmission, which is important for enthusiasts. I prefer the Q. With a little bit of negotiation room, I'd say this car is priced right for someone looking to savor one of Alfa's last forays into mainstream US sales.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Gold

We had a reader request recently to search out a few Alfa Romeo Milanos. To start off the week, I thought we would continue on our cheap thrills theme from the weekend and feature this Milano Gold 2.5 for sale in British Columbia.

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Gold

Sadly, not much information is offered by this seller, other than the car has a little over 100,000 miles. Also, as a 2.5 liter car, this would not be the Verde model, which had a 3.0 liter engine. This isn't the best example of a Milano that I've seen, but given a little negotiating room, this could be a good buy for someone handy with a wrench, as cosmetically, the car appears straight.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6

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Following on to the Alfa Romeo GTV6 we featured last Wednesday, here is another GTV6 that is one year newer for sale in my backyard right outside of Washington, DC. Owned by an Alfa enthusiast, this is a very straight, original example for someone seeking affordable Alfa thrills.

1986 Alfa Romeo GTV6

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1986 GTV6, 99,460 miles, $6,800. California car, very good condition. Completely stock except for the Blaupunkt radio/CD. Well maintained, up to date service, can be driven anywhere. 2 owner car. Drives great, everything works, no damage or rust, except where noted (please see pics also/follow link!);
-small dent on driver's side, below rear window (pic),
-minor surface rust in engine compartment below brake cylinder,
-minor surface rust spot on window trim metal,
-steering wheel leather is dried out (perfectly useable of course),
-some leather stitching on seats coming undone.

Recent work (within last 5k miles;
-rebuilt steering rack,
-castor bushings all around,
-new rear engine mount,
-timing belt replacement,
-new front brake lines,
-new driver's tie rod.
-complete exhaust including cat and o2 sensor. Stock type.
-new rear brake pads and disks.

Noteworthy details about this special car; all lights work (see pics), all gauges work, clock works, sunroof works perfectly and smooth, NO 2nd gear crunch during shifting, A/C needs recharged, car was re-sprayed by original owner (in very good condition), wheel wells/arches are rust free.

This is an opportunity to purchase a very clean, straight late model GTV6... not modified or personalized in anyway. But, it is not a perfect car, as I have described some of it's imperfections. There are no nasty surprises or money-pit scenarios. Any issues can be resolved over the course of a few weekends and you can have a nearly-new quality car. The surface rust can be treated with POR 15 or similar (see pics). I want this GTV6 to go to a good home! Someone who will maintain its integrity and take care of it, the way the factory intended.

I recommend this go to someone who is familiar with GTV6's, or someone with access to a good Alfa tech. Now that we have our new born we are looking to move and I won't have space for this car. My Buy It Now price reflects the issues that this car has, so please don't make me low offers because this car needs some work. It's perfectly enjoyable as it stands, and quite frankly if it was perfect I would be selling it for more. The car is located in the DC/N.Virginia area. I welcome you to test drive before bidding.

The price of this GTV6 matches the last one we featured at $6,500. This seems to be right smack dab in the middle of the range when it comes to well cared for, if not perfect, drivers. Mint examples start creeping more towards the $10,000 mark. This car seems to be a solid example with but a few issues to sort. For the enthusiast on a budget, it doesn't get much better than this.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1983 Ferrari 512BBi

The march towards a mid-engined, 12 cylinder Ferrari was a slow one, but after Enzo Ferrari came under increased pressure from racing competition in the 1960s, he eventually warmed to the idea with the mid-engined Dino race cars, the street versions of the Dino that entered series production and the rear engined, V12 powered P and LM race cars. With the introduction of the 512BB, or Berlinetta Boxer, at the Turin Motor Show in 1971, Ferrari shot an arrow across the bow of Lamborghini and their Miura, the original mid-engined supercar. The BB would go on sale in 1973 and was powered by a longitudally mounted flat 12 engine that produced 380 horsepower, a heady number for the time.

None of these BBs were ever sold new in the US, as Enzo Ferrari didn't think it was worth the bother to federalize them. Luckily, some of these stunning cars made it over. This particular example, however, wasn't one of them. It is for sale in Luxembourg and painted in a rather uncommon shade a black, a hue which matches its sharp, ready to pounce looks.

1983 Ferrari 512BBi

It was not an easy task for Ferrari to replace the mythical Daytona in the early 70s. Begun in 1969 the “BB” project focused all of the best knowledge available at the factory to be putted into the design from what was aimed to be the ultimate sports car. The first prototype was shown in 1971, it was an extremely modern car compared to the period production. Many technical solution directly came from the track such as the flat 12 engine as the ones used in F1 or sport prototypes. The first “365 Berlinetta Boxer” were delivered in late 73 and in 1976 the car was renamed 512 BB to rebirth the famous le Mans cars’ name capacity being increased from 4.4 to 5.0 liter.

Finally in 1981 the fuel injected version 512 BBi was introduced and gained very much in terms of building quality, road holding (Michelin TRX tyres) and reliability. It was a stressless car easy to drive in the daily traffic, a big improvement to the previous carburated ones. From the supercars of the 70s and early 80s, the BB was the quickest and best driving one, only 1007 fuel injected versions were built.

This rare 1983 black Boxer is in exceptional original condition having never been repainted and always maintained to the highest level. It was delivered in US but soon came back to Europe in the early 90s as the owner was looking for a mint black BB. It comes with an interesting history file, books and tools and it recently received an important service including a new clutch. The car drives magnificently and is still lovely to drive at high speed on highways.

Price: €135,000

At $176,000 USD equivalent, this BB is a bit on the high side in terms of value. While they were a top performer at Ferrari in the day, the similar looking 308 that came along later can be had for much less, offers adequate performance and is cheaper to maintain. True, the BB offers more speed, but for most enthusiasts, the 308 would do just fine. This year, a 1983 BBi sold at RM Auctions for $112,750. Given that these cars weren't sold here new, it adds to their obscurity and seems to affect values a bit. Since this car is for sale in Europe, collectors might be willing to pony up more cash, but I'm not sure it would bring the premium being asked here.

-Paul