1994 Alfa Romeo Spider Commemorative Edition

March 1, 2015 Graham

Alfa Romeo has had fits and starts with a return to the US market over the last few years. In 2008, the 8C Competizione was unleashed on US customers in limited numbers, giving the well-heeled an opportunity to once again bask in automotive nirvana that the brand has been known for over the years. Now with the introduction of the 4C Coupe and Spider, ownership of an Alfa Romeo is becoming ever more realistic for those of us stateside. Luckily, there have been enthusiasts who dutifully preserved classic Spiders, the car which brought Alfa Romeo fame on these shores. This Series 4 Spider for sale from our reader David is one of the rare Commemorative Editions, which marked the end for the 105/115 series Spider after an impressive three decade production run.

Year: 1994
Model: Spider Commemorative Edition
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 21,415 mi
Price: $19,900

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1994 Alfa Romeo Spider Commemorative Edition

1994 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce CE (Commemorative Edition)

Number 15 of only 190 Alfa Romeo Spiders sold in the US in 1994 - the last year in the US after a 27 year production run.

~22,000 original miles. Verde Inglese (Green) with original pristine tan leather and Alcantara interior.
All original except routine maintenance items (battery, fluids, tires, rear muffler).
Original window sticker and leather portfolio and books.
Items unique to only the 190 1994 Commemorative Edition Spiders: Numbered dash plaque, wood grain door and console trim and gear shift knob, CE badges on nose, rear, numbered key chain, unique wheel center caps, etc.
Fully professionally serviced, shifts perfectly, cold A/C, drive anywhere (car thoroughly professionally inspected, all synthetic fluids, valve clearances adjusted, new rear muffler and tailpipe, Pirellis all around, motor mounts and suspension components "look like a 2 year old car").

Excellent original condition. Pristine original tan leather/Alcantera interior. NO dash cracks. All original paint with minor blemishes on nose and rear trunk lid which can be professionally detailed if desired. Absolutely NO dings, dents, rust, prior accident damage. Drives beautifully, shifts smoothly (no 2nd gear synchro crunch), wonderful highway cruising all day long at 70+ mph.

Fairly priced at $19,900 (you will not find another CE with <25,000 miles for <$25,000). Car located in Chapel Hill, NC. Serious buyers only are welcome to call David at: Nine-One-Nine-27-Zero-4228 or email at 94SpiderCE@gmail.com

The Series 4 Spider will always be a favorite of mine, as it mixes classic looks with integrated bumpers and the reliability of Bosch Motronic engine management and an electric fan. Even though this is labeled a 1994 model, Spider production ended in 1993, with this CE model being one of them to roll off the line. Given the condition and mileage of this example, the price is in the ballpark. When you consider what you pay for early 105/115 Spiders and that Alfa Romeo is set to introduce a new Spider in the near future, the collectability quotient for these roadsters is strong.

-Paul

Ferrari

1964 Ferrari 250GT Lusso Berlinetta

February 25, 2015 Graham

The Ferrari 250GT Berlinetta Lusso is, in my humble opinion, one of the most beautiful cars ever produced. I don't heap such praise lightly, but there's something about the low slung nature of this coupe, with its soft, flowing Pininfarina lines that embodies the true GT spirit. Unlike most Ferraris, this is a car that looks better in a shade other than the ubiquitous Rosso Corsa. Steve McQueen was famous for owning one of these very Ferraris in a subtle Marrone Metallizzato, or Metallic Brown. This Blue Notte example with Bordeaux leather interior is equally stunning. This is a car that is begging to do the run from St. Tropez to the Champs-Élysées.

Year: 1964
Model: 250GT Lusso Berlinetta
Engine: 3.0 liter V12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 58,750 km (~ 36,505 mi)
Price: €2,375,000 (~ $2,698,570 USD)

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1964 Ferrari 250GT Lusso Berlinetta

The Ferrari 250 GT/L or 'Lusso' is the last evolution of the famed Ferrari 250 Berlinetta line of vehicles; one of the most beautiful cars ever made. The car was initially revealed at the Paris Motor Show in October 1962, the last vehicle to carry the iconic "250" name, carrying design and performance features from legendary cars such as the GTO and SWB. Such DNA meant that the Lusso was not only one of the best looking Ferraris ever made, but also one of the best to drive; the ultimate Grand Tourer, focused on luxury over competition.

The vehicle we are fortunate enough to offer is number 329 of 350 built and comes with an extensive service and ownership history. The car was delivered to Germany in 1964 before moving to a new home in France in 1972. The vehicle enjoyed a full restoration in the 1990s, before going on to be a serial concourse vehicle in the 00s. In 2008, the vehicle became Ferrari certified and is subsequently presented with its 'Classiche' folder. Originally Blue Notte, the car sits in the same colour it left the factory, now over Bordeaux hide and is in absolutely beautiful condition. There has never been a better time to buy one of the most beautiful Ferraris ever made; a guaranteed long-term earner and one of the most enjoyable vehicles to drive and own.

Not only was this one of the most gorgeous Ferraris ever produced, but it was to be the swan song for the 250 line, a series dating back to 1953. Only 350 copies were ever produced, and those that still exist are highly prized. Values for the Lusso began to take off at the beginning of this decade. It is now hard to find any for under $1,000,000, and those in exquisite condition, such as we see here, can push $2.5 million. For those who have the means, there are few cars that embody speed, class and old world craftsmanship better than this particular Ferrari.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1995 Alfa Romeo 164 LS

February 17, 2015 Graham 5 Comments

This square-jawed 164 LS presents the rare opportunity to purchase what is, in my opinion, the ideal configuration of a 164. It starts with the superlative 164 LS platform; introduced in 1994, it brought a 210hp 24V engine, a refreshed interior with - and this is difficult to believe - an updated version of the sea of button 90s HVAC controls, and handsome body-matched cladding - a notable improvement over the grey cladding in 1991-1993 cars. Usually, to upgrade to the 164 Q's 232hp, you have to stomach the swaths of grey body cladding, which have their place, but are by no means subtle. Fortunately for LS owners, it's possible to surpass the Q's 232hp spec with a Squadra chip upgrade and the Q's 45mm intake runners - $860 in kit form. In the case of this car, the chip is already present, so it's just a matter finding some $400 (or less used) 45mm Q runners to get to a claimed 240hp. Not bad for this black tuxedo of a sedan.

Year: 1995
Model: 164 LS
Engine: 3.0 Liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 79,000 mi
Price: $7,200

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1995 Alfa Romeo 164 LS

With a bit of trepidation and reluctance, I’m selling my 1995 164LS. I bought it here in 2009 from fellow member sjmst. I brought it to the left coast and have driven it about 29,000 miles since purchased. Need to shed this one to make room and some funds to assist the completion of my GT junior redo. Looks like I’m the 4th or 5th owner based on the materials I’ve been provided. Most everything from a copy of the original Monroney window sticker on through the most recent work detailed below is documented. Still in great condition, properly maintained by a AR specialty shop when needed and about as clean as you’ll find. Runs fast and firm, a great grand tourer with a lot of ‘sport’ mixed in. Now to the details (a lot of which I’ll plagiarize from the 2009 trade / sale post from where I purchased…):

Asking Price: $7,200
Miles: ~79,000
Black/Black, 5speed, 3L 24V
ZARED33E6S6310243
Photos @ flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/129463...7648339523413/ take a look there and if there are others you want, ask and they will post there.
Located in SF Bay Area, CA

• 17” wheels w Falken Z1EX 225/45 17’s with ~19k miles on them w/ lots of life left
• Squadra chip
• B&G springs
• Goats repaired LCD HVAC display – all works and legible
• Invisible bra at leading edge of hood – no stone chips there as a result
• One small seam split in FL seat, professionally repaired and unnoticeable
• Headliner redone and flawless
• Original owner manuals, tools, keys, alarm fobs included (never could figure out how to program/reset for the fobs though)
• Original AM/FM/Cassette unit with 6 disc changer in trunk. All operable though the speakers are old and crap (usable and OK with me – I like hearing the 24V music) and should be replaced
• Dash is 10/10 – no cracks, no fading or warping, interior is 9or10/10, exterior

is probably 8 or 9/10 (I’m picky)

Things not working, not working right or maybe in need of attention (most from the PO’s list and have not been an issue, some added by me over time):
• DS front seat heater switch ‘iffy’ – mostly does not work, sometimes the display icon will come on but I don’t sense heat. Never need that where I am so never bothered with it
• Small ‘dimples’ in DS front seat bottom, kind of back right corner. Leather is not jeopardized at all and I think it’s just a normal defect expected in cow hides (PO thought it may be from former owners, keys in pocket sort of thing). I say not.
• Misc minor dings (you’ll see not really noticeable when visiting the photos)
• Bottom cladding – at rear valance – ‘nubby’ paint is wearing off a bit in spots. Not a big issue and with the black material, not too noticeable.
• Small bubble areas where paint is failing / peeling on front bumper. ~1”x2” area and base material is black so not too noticeable but would eventually warrant a respray
• PO says was rearended lightly about a year before I acquired. Professionally repaired with new bumper cover, paint, aluminum strip via PO (I have receipts). Good job, not any noticeable difference from surrounding areas.
• Refrigerant lasts about 1-1.5 seasons per charge. Must be slow leak somewhere but the charge can be done easily at a low cost so has been no big deal to me.
• HVAC controls all work as intended though the link to the heater flap door must be disconnected (under dash?). I’ve read here on the BB kind of a pain to R&R. My solution has been to adjust to my liking based on season by moving the actuator arm behind the false firewall a bit to provide more, less or no hot air to the cabin. Again, I’m in a very mild climate
with minimal seasonal swings so not been an issue.
• Seat height adjustment function does not work well. Teeth or belt(?) stripped or jumped? Front/back/seatback tilt all fully functional otherwise
• PO represented hood repainted at time of adding the invisibra (looks great)
• Trunk lifting gas struts getting tired – need assistance to raise the trunk fully but holds it there once opened
• Stone chip very top edge of L headlight lens.

I think that’s about it for the ‘defects’ etc. list. If not on this list, assume all else in good/very good to perfect condition but feel free to ask on specific things of interest or concern. Now on to things done since purchase:
• Smog check and registration done 1/14. Engine runs cleaner than my newer supposedly low emissions vehicles (Mini, Audi 2L)
• Steering rack replaced w/ properly rebuilt unit. Rock solid (aligned too) 5/14
• Fuel pump inc pump relays, Oil sensor unit replaced 5/13
• Brake Master Cylinder, Clutch Slave cylinder + hose 12/11
• Fan wiring harness, temp sensor, A arms replaced 3/11
• Plugs + tune, RR window regulator replacement, O2 sensor, transaxle fluid changed 3/10
• Serpentine belt, T-belt, bypass hoses, water pump replaced 3/09 (@ 50,100mi).
That’s about it. A fun car that gets smiles and comments by those both in the know and clueless as to what it is and a very good example of the last year and low volume US spec ’95 164.
Let the tire kicking begin!

The 164 platform is much less prone to rust than the earlier transaxle cars - not that rust should be too much of a concern for a California car like this one. Judging from the photos and description, exterior blemishes seem to be minimal, allowing the eye to focus on the flat surfaces and sharp creases so vital to the handsome Pininfarina wedge. Coming as more of a surprise is the state of the front leather seats, which are in remarkably superb condition, even for a car with relatively low mileage like this. Additional confidence as a buyer comes in the form of a fully repaired and functional climate control LCD screen - a common weak point on 164.

Mechanically speaking, this car is long overdue for a timing belt change; we wouldn't drive it far on the current 6 year-old belt. The belt jobs are expensive on these cars, especially when performed at a shop, so do not consider the rather optimistic asking price impervious to this reality. We'd also be prepared to spend some money on the air conditioning to address refrigerant leak, though it seems that we have a rare instance of a car with functioning A/C that actually does need the occasional recharge - a nice relief from the typical Craigslist seller's refrain. With a fresh timing belt, water pump, and A/C service, this 164 LS offers the rare opportunity to experience a 164 in 1990s condition, saving you 1.21 gigawatts in the process.

-Graham

Lamborghini

1976 Lamborghini Uracco P250

February 3, 2015 Graham

Our guest contributor from flüssig magazine, Andy, is perpetually scanning the classifieds for unique cars. He came across this 1976 Lamborghini Uracco P250 for sale, one of the most attainable Lamborghinis as of late. However, like air-cooled 911s pushing up the values of other P-cars like 944s and 928s, this Uracco is benefitting from the ever increasing values of classic Lamborghinis. Want to stand out from the crowd of V12 Lambos? Try one of these V8 wedges.

Year: 1976
Model: Uracco P250
Engine: 2.5 liter V8
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 21,969 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1976 Lamborghini Uracco P250

Click to view listing

1976 Lamborghini Urraco P250. Arancio (Orange) Exterior with very original Black and Grey Interior. Original 2.5L Single Overhead-Cam V-8 and 5 Speed Manual Transmission. Features include Air Conditioning, Power Windows, AM/FM Radio, Proper Tool Kit, and rare Original Alloy Wheels with Proper Michelin XWX Radials. Showing only 35,357 Kilometers (21,969 miles), and lots of evidence of a life of gentle use. Just in from very particular collector and Mershon family friend. Recent service included Timing Belt, Ignition and Carburetor Overhaul by well recognized Columbus OH Evans Automotive. Documentation include service receipts, owner history and interesting paper trail from its original export from Antwerp to Jacksonville FL in 1983. Very nicely finished in its original color combination, well detailed, serviced and ready to enjoy. The Urraco served as Lamborghini's competitive answer to Ferrari's Dino and Porsche's 911. Designed by Marcello Gandini and shaped by Berton, this is one of just a few Lamborghini models to offer 2+2 seating. Widely considered to be undervalued in todays constantly appreciating Lamborghini lineup, recent sales suggest the Urraco in general is a wise investment. Being one of only 520 P250 Urraco's built, this example would be a perfect addition or start to any collection.

This Uracco could be considered the father to the Gallardo 6-speed we featured last week. Smaller, lighter and down on cylinder count versus its larger siblings, the Uracco nonetheless hold an important place in Lamborghini history, as it went on to form the basis of the later Jalpa and Silhouette. These three cars were the only ones to feature the V8 engine designed by Gian Paolo Dallara, who designed race cars for the Williams F1 team and expanded later into IndyCar. It's pedigree like this that gets collectors' attention.

-Paul

Lamborghini

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 6-speed manual

January 31, 2015 Graham 1 Comment

I never thought I'd see the day where the manual transmission would disappear from the Lamborghini lineup, but it has arrived. No longer can one opt for the third pedal in any of the magnificent cars to come from Sant'Agata Bolognese. Much like the 6-speed manual Ferrari 612 Scaglietti we featured recently, this transmission seems to be a relic of the past in high-end sports cars. Which is sad. While they may be more technically advanced, faster and more efficient, it doesn't solve the problem that some motorists, like myself, want their fun back. If you fall into this category, then check out this Gallardo LP550-2 for sale in Texas. This is one of the last 6-speed manual Lamborghinis to be produced and is rear-wheel drive. Like the hue in which it is painted, Bianco Monocerus, we're looking at purity.

Year: 2012
Model: Gallardo LP550-2
Engine: 5.2 liter V10
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 6,328 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:2012 Lamborghini LP550-2

2012 Lamborghini LP550-2 Coupe 6-Speed

Lamborghini Houston is proud to offer this beautiful 2012 Lamborghini LP550-2 Coupe 6-Speed in Bianco Monocerus over a Nero Perseus Interior with 6,328 miles. The LP550-2 is powered by a 5.2L V10 engine producing 550 hp and 387 lb-ft of torque through a Rear Wheel Drive system and a 6-Speed Manual Transmission. This LP550-2 is further enhanced with the following:

Electric Seats
Heated Seats
Brake Calipers in Black
Front End Lifting System
Transparent Engine Bonnet
Contrast Stitching
Branding Package
Leather Package I
Anti Theft System
Rear Camera

This LP550-2 is further equipped with:
20” VRG-2 Rays Wheels
Bolt-On Catback Exhaust

White probably wouldn't be the color I'd select on such a shouty supercar, but I certainly wouldn't turn my nose up at it, either. Around $160,000 to $180,000 is about what you would expect to pay currently for an LP500-2 of this vintage with this kind of negligible mileage on the odometer. Considering you would spend well over $200,000 for a 2015 Huracan, I think I'd opt for the last of the three-pedal breed as we see here.

-Paul

Ferrari

2005 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti 6-speed manual

January 22, 2015 Graham 1 Comment

Large Ferraris remind me of French luxury cars. Often misunderstood, somewhat rare outside their home market and more often than not passed over for their smaller stable mates. Such is the case with the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, a lesser known model in recent Ferrari history but rather significant, as this would be one of the last front-engined, V12 Ferraris available with a true 6-speed manual gearbox. It was also the second all-aluminum Ferrari behind the 360 Modena. This 612 for sale in Missouri is one of about 10% of 3,025 612 Scaglietti's equipped with the 6-speed manual, looking resplendent in Tour de France Blue.

Year: 2005
Model: 612 Scaglietti
Engine: 5.7 liter V12
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Mileage: 20,491 mi
Price: $188,500 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:2005 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti

Ferrari's 2005 612 Scaglietti
Jumbo Grand Touring Family Flagship!
One of only the very few "real Ferrari" gated 6-speed manuals ever produced in this model!
Finished in "unreal" Tour de France Blue with Cuoio Power Daytona leather seats and headliner!
Just turned 20k actual fully serviced miles!
VIN #ZFFAA54A150138852

The largest Ferrari to ever shade the pavement, was designed to be a car capable of blistering Ferrari performance while seating 4 adults! Over 2.8 inches more headroom than its forebear 456 and at the same time 25% more luggage space making this a true "family" Ferrari!

Wow! Powered by a DOHC 5.7 liter, 533 horsepower V-12, the 612 "Scag" becomes the first 12 cylinder Ferrari to use aluminum space frame and body! No Ferrari has ever been so comfortable and easy going! The supple-riding 612 feels soft and pliable, yet controllable at any speed. But at the same time very quick while tapping on the V-12's performance peddle. This Ferrari really goes!

The interior is very roomy while the dashboard is simple but tastefully and beautifully finished, mostly in a variety of leathers. A prominent alloy band separates the dark upper dash from the lighter lower area while incorporating large circulator air vents. The instruments are an incongruous mix of analog and digital displays. The seats are firm, supportive and power adjustable as is the steering wheel. This is a very powerful 4-seat "GT" supercar!

Factory equipped with the very unheard of "Gated 6-speed manual," heated power Daytona seats, Scuderia shields, Rosso Corsa calipers, "HTGS sport package suspension," modular wheels, parking sensors! Wow, what a machine that you can drive everyday and take your kids along as well! Just serviced and inspected including the major belt service completed on 8/15/2014 at 20,382 miles, original keys (2), books, tools in original plastic bags, tire repair kit and excellent service records!

Absolutely pristine example and the one you have been waiting for! This is like going to your Ferrari dealer and finding a new 612 Scaglietti they forgot they had! Once in a lifetime opportunity here with the 6-speed and a color combo that is off the charts! It just doesn't get any better than this. Would love to add you to our 40 year satisfied customer base and will make everything easy and painless with a money back guarantee in writing if not as represented and no one but "Wilhoit" does this. Money isn't worth anything if you don't invest in something you really want!

Please call Michael personally at 417-869-7000 or 417-839-1258 cell/text for an accurate description of this car and the current market conditions! Hurry! Will trade!

I was talking with Andy over at flüssig magazine, as his father is a 612 Scaglietti owner. He frequents the FerrariChat forum and has noted an increase in demand for 612 Scagliettis and 599GTBs with 6-speed manual gearboxes, as Ferrari has ceased making any more cars with three pedals as of 2012. It should be noted that several hundred 612 Scagliettis were recalled in the US market due to a clutch sensor malfunction, so even if they are more efficient and quicker, you still have a bit more reliability with the old foot operated clutch. A small bit of comfort, then, for traditionalists like myself.

-Paul

Maserati

2004 Maserati Coupe GT

December 4, 2014 Graham

Walking to work in Dearborn, I'm bombarded daily with the flat-plane crank soundtrack of the recently-revealed Ford Mustang GT350's 5.2L V8 - an impressive nod to the signature element of any Maranello V8. Odd then, that I'm left longing for the burble of the anomalous (for an Italian) American-style cross-plane Ferrari V8 that propelled Maserati through the turn of the century. My neighbor up the street had a Maser Coupe Cambiacorsa when I was in high school, and I could hear it from a mile away - affording me enough time to run out the front door and listen to it blip through the gears as it slowed into the driveway. While this Coupe GT is the less-common, conventional 6-speed manual, I'd gladly trade the raucous paddle-actuated downshifts for extended clutch life and the enjoyment provided by a third pedal.

Year: 2004
Model: Coupe GT
Engine: 4.2 Liter V8
Transmission:6-speed manual
Mileage: 22,300 mi
Price: $30,400

CLICK FOR DETAILS:2004 Maserati Coupe GT

Rare 6 speed manual transmission. Ferrari sourced 390 HP 4.2 liter V8. Heated seats, navigation, aluminum racing pedals, Leather headliner, Skyhook suspension, xenon headlights, optional Audition sound system. Stunning beige/gray leather interior, cruise control, AC, memory power seats. Michelin Pilot Sport Tires. No accidents, never tracked, religiously serviced. Cosmetically close to showroom condition inside and out. Great mechanical condition, just had 1 year service completed. All available service records. Car comes complete with factory tool kit, original window sticker, all manuals, and a spare set of factory wheels. Everything works, no stories. If you want a Maserati Coupe in close to perfect condition, you won't find a better deal. Price is $30,400 OBO. Original sticker price on this vehicle was $96,483.

Having witnessed the damage that UV rays can inflict upon leather dashboards of Ferrari 456 and 550s, I approve of the seller's use of a dash cover. A private inspection would cost 1% of the asking price, and hopefully vindicate the seller's assertion of religious service history and great mechanical condition. For me, the greatest appeal in the Maserati V8 is the availability of replacement engines - at a quarter of the price of, say, a Ferrari 360 V8. Keep a spare in the garage, and drive the Maser with the windows down and the tach up.

-Graham

Alfa Romeo

1982 Alfa Romeo GTV6 Balocco Edition

November 10, 2014 Graham

The BMW E30 325is and M3 have become the darling of the enthusiast who wants a bit more than just the typical boy racer sports coupe. But, as with all good things, even E30 ownership is starting to become a bit cliche. So where's an enthusiast to turn if he or she wants something a bit more unique? Enter the Alfa Romeo GTV6. Rear-wheel drive, rear mounted transaxle with inboard brakes, a lusty V6...this coupe has got it all. Unlike the BMW E30, you have to search far and wide for a good GTV6, but this 1982 Balocco Edition for sale in Las Vegas should catch the attention of the Alfisti.

Year: 1982
Model: GTV6 Balocco Edition
Engine: 2.5 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 57,700 mi
Price: £19,100 (~ $30,314 USD)

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1982 Alfa Romeo GTV6 Balocco Edition

Fourth owner of documented AR 1004177 built on 20 April 1982, Original owner Jimmy Lukman – This Alfa was delivered to Alfa Romeo of Santa Barbara, California; In 1984 it was sold to, Charles Berryessa – Santa Cruz ; In 2000 it was sold to, Doug Colacicco - Santa Cruz. Since 2005 this Alfa has been in Portland, Oregon United States used as track vehicle at Alfa Romeo club events and occasional tours. Current mileage 57,700. Balocco #211 - Alfetta GTV6 in pristine shape!

Specifics:
Refreshed entire Upper Control Arms, Lower Control Arms, and dion suspension with poly bushings, renewed upper and lower balljoints, tie rods, modified with Ron Simmons racing coil over suspension, reinforced mounting using a 30 mm front sway bar, 25.4mm rear Shankle sway bar; rose jointed front sway and rose jointed adjustable RSR watts link; 105 style caster rods installed, Jarmo Kekarainen of Finland shortened ratio 2.2 turns steering gear, shaved lower arm spacers - lowered; toe set at 3.5mm, caster LH + 7.25 RH +7.5, camber set - 1.5.

Retains original 2.5 liter motor # 0A52020, fire-rings head gasket updated to one piece unit, de-tensionor updated with alfa romeo mechanical unit, fuel injectors balanced, maintained valves triple cut w/ new stem seals, timing advanced and exhaust rocker duration adjusted; Ansa euro down pipes, Ansa center muffler delete, Ansa sport exhaust rear. Motor resting in urethane motor mounts wrapped in heat reflective tape. Total oil syn 10-60w used. Coolant fluid is VW G12.

Original 3.42:1 ratio transaxle maintained, rebuilt with Merritt Carden back-cut and cross drilled gears all 5 gears plus reverse and idler gear (reduce rotating mass at 3%1st gear, 17% 2nd gear, 11% 3rd gear, 6% 4th gear, and 7% fifth gear). Shifter modified with lengthened bottom lever; plastic sleeves replaced with needle bearings for smooth positive engagement. Alfa 75 limited slip added with twin slip discs for 47% rear lock up. Dual disc clutch retained but rebuilt with sinter clutch discs for better bite at engagement. Braided Stainless steel clutch hose used. Rear flywheel lightened. 10 row, 6 AN transmission cooler added with 12v - 2 gal. per minute Titan racing oil pump. Trans cooler installed up under driver rear with aluminum scoop to draw air, inline filter screen installed and thermo switch. Trans cooler located away safely from FIA curbing damage. Using Redline NS 75-90w oil with limited slip additive only to adjustment.

All three guibos in driveline in healthy condition.

Wilwood Dyna pro 4 pot calipers in front with Giro disc aluminum floating hat spacers and Wilwood slotted discs. Front rotor is 5% larger in diameter, and 15% larger in width vs. OEM. SZ Alfa spacers added to Alfa rear brakes with two-piece, Giro disc ventilated rotor that help shed heat in problematic area. Combination of Raypestos ST-43 compound front and Ferodo DS-3000 rear. Braided stainless steel brake hoses all around.

Original black leather interior with black and red seat piping, red carpet. Six point Willians quick lock harness installed on driver's side. Becker 612 Chassis "gran prix" cassette stereo with Becker installed auxiliary plug for an modern day 3.5mm audio connection. MOMO 350mm Veloce leather steering wheel with MOMO steering interface and OMP 60MM steering wheel extension for correct steering wheel placement. Dash flawless without cracks.
Sale includes 6 Original Campanolo magnesium Alfa Romeo wheels with (4) Toyo RA 788 - 205x50x15, (2) original Pirelli P6 (2); Gotti J55B 2 piece 15 x 6 shod with (4) Michelin Pilot W rated 215x55x15; also set of Team Dynamics Pro 1.2 Race 15 x 7 with (4) Toyo RA1 205x50x15.

Standard Balocco options remain and original take offs + some spares; AirConditioning is present but has slight R12 leak and has had throughout ownership history - never been repaired (alfa romeo patina)

Inspection available at one of four Alfa Romeo specialist in area.

Link to photos:

https://skydrive.live.com/?cid=93a055228ce68bb8&id=93A055228CE68BB8%21524#cid=93A055228CE68BB8

This is one seriously clean and dialed in GTV6. The fact that it is a rare Balocco Edition makes it all the more tempting. The price is listed at 19,900 GBP, which is steep for one of these cars. The owner may have meant to reflect the price in USD, so it would be worth verifying, as it is a US car marketed on a British site. The best GTV6s of this era are hovering around the $11,000 to $15,000 mark currently. With its extensive amount of modifications, this would make one seriously cool track day car that you could daily rather easily.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1972 Alfa Romeo 1300GT Junior

October 20, 2014 Graham 2 Comments

One of my favorite Alfa Romeos of all time has to be the 105/115 Series coupes. Styled by Bertone, these cars have crisp lines that have aged well. Add in the twin cam engine, 5-speed gearbox and disc brakes on all four corners and you have a classic that can also keep up well with modern traffic. Most of the cars that made it stateside were powered by the 2.0 liter engine, but other markets got small displacement versions, like this 1300GT Junior for sale in Portugal. This example has been restored and wears a very striking combination of blue over red leather.

Year: 1972
Model: 1300GT Junior
Engine: 1.3 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: N/A
Price: $25,600 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1972 Alfa Romeo 1300GT Junior

We are glad to offer:

Alfa Romeo 1300 GT Junior

2 Senior Italian Owners from New (Same family)

Excellent and very rare colour combination

Restored and in a very fresh presentation.

New Interior

All the Alfa Romeo original Rubber mats (interior and trunk) are new.

New rubber seals (all)

Very god quality Exterior Paint.

Mechanic in perfect condition.

Rare opportunity to buy an excellent car at very good price.

18750€

This car is priced almost right in the middle of what a Condition #2 and Condition #1 car go for according to Hagerty. There are plenty of 2000 GTVs out there at that price point, but maybe not as freshly restored. These sports coupes are still at a good price point for those collectors who want something a bit more special than the run of the mill Fiat but might not have a Ferrari budget. For me and many others, these coupes hit the sweet spot of the collector market.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

2015 Alfa Romeo 4C – First Impressions

October 8, 2014 Graham 2 Comments

My colleague Carter suggested that he wished Alfa Romeo was producing cars like the lovely Giulietta Spider. I don't disagree but since Alfa is in the process of reinventing itself I think a car like the 4C is exactly what they need. I was recently fortunate enough to spend some time gazing upon it and following it on the open road and came to the conclusion that this car is an instant classic.

(Forgive my photography skills)

Year: 2015
Model: Alfa Romeo 4C
Engine: 1.7 liter turbocharged inline-4
Transmission: 6-speed dual dry-clutch semi-automatic
Price: $68,400 (Launch Edition)

CLICK FOR DETAILS:2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Coupe

First impressions of the 4C are great. It looks stunning in person. The only awkward styling bit is the C-pillar/rear buttresses. They are rather chunky when viewed from the side but this seems to be required for current crash standards and is really the only blemish on an otherwise truly lovely car.

The interior is very sparse. Think Lotus Elise, not Porsche Cayman. This is not a daily driving kind of car but a track car or a blast through the hills on Sunday morning kind of machine. Headroom was tight for me but I am longish of torso and legroom was adequate for all who sat in it. There is plenty of exposed carbon fiber and the seats are thinly padded and not for the wide of backside. Ingress and egress is not very graceful with a very low car and very wide sills.

Luggage space is not what one would call generous either. If you’re going away for the weekend with your sweetheart, wait until you get to your destination and unpack before you buy any wine. Forget about bringing home souvenirs too. This really won’t be a problem since since a weekend away in a 4C will create more memories than any of the bric-a-brac that gets collected and later junked.

Manufacturer liability prevented me from driving the 4C but following it on rural roads is an aural and visual treat. It doesn't sound sharp like a 6 cylinder Porsche, it’s more punk-rock than opera. It pops, growls, whooshes, shouts and the back side is entirely enjoyable to gaze upon. I’ll let you, dear reader, draw your own conclusion if that sounds like a good time or not. I enjoyed it immensely!

Any other knocks against the car? For some, the elephant in the room is the lack of a manual transmission. Fair critique, but if one looks at how many Porsches (for example) are sold with manual versus the manumatic gearbox it’s understandable why Alfa chose to offer the 4C with a semi-auto gearbox.

The true significance of the 4C is that Alfa is back on the path that made them a great company for so many years. The 4C is a sports car. It’s not a GT, it’s not a sports sedan, it’s not a super car, hyper car or your mothers car. It’s sort of like an Exige and sort of like a Cayman. What it really is, however, is its own thing, which is exactly what it needs to be. You can already buy a Cayman or an Exige and they are brilliant in their own way but you wouldn't say one is better than the other because they are different cars. That’s what the 4C is, its own thing.

For those that want a hand built Italian exotic but fear the hefty price tag, here is your chance to get an instant classic AND it will have a warranty! Given that some Alfa-Romeo Giuliettas are selling north of $100k, the 4C has to be the bargain of the decade.

-Jim