1971 Alfa Romeo Montreal

May 8, 2014 Graham

Show cars - automobile manufacturers taunt us with them; visionary styling design exercises that hint towards the future of the brand. They are litmus tests for the public's reception, intended to generate enthusiasm and buzz about all of the wonderful things that the company is doing. The reality is, though, that when it comes to the production version that company has had to deal with lawyers, laws, production schedules and the bottom line. Suddenly, that quad-turbo V16 and 28" hand polished magnesium wheels go out the window, left behind like the dreams of the designers in favor of something that won't explode the second you turn the key. Outside, the rakish designs, flying buttresses, gaping vents and grills and exotic materials are replaced by stamped steel and toned down to a more suitable design. It's as if the dream dish you spent hours preparing was loaded into the conservative oven, set to boring and baked until all of the passion dried out. At least, that's what is supposed to happen - but apparently no one told the Italians that.

Launched as a show car in 1967 at the Montreal car exposition, what became known as "The Montreal" internally grew even crazier than the original design. Outside the car retained its partially obscured headlights, the sensuous curves and the crazy vent slats in the C-pillar that hint the car could be rear-engined. Bertone styled the original, so it's not much of a surprise that it in large part resembles the also-Gandini styled Miura. But unlike the Miura, the Montreal show car was fitted with a 1600cc 4 cylinder engine popped out of a Giulia. Naturally then, what would be found in the production version? A race-bred 2.6 liter V8 with a 7,000 RPM redline, of course:

Year: 1971
Model: Montreal
Engine: 2.6 liter V8
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 48,900 km
Price: No Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1971 Alfa Romeo Montreal

NO RESERVE!!!
EXTREMELY RARE!
BERTONE DESIGNED!
1971 ALFA ROMEO
MONTREAL!
FACTORY 2.6 LITER V8!
FACTORY ZF 5-SPEED MANUAL!
FACTORY LIMITED SLIP DIFFERENTIAL!
ITALIAN GT/SPORTS CAR!
TIME CAPSULE!
EXCELLENT INVESTMENT!

Up for auction with NO RESERVE!!! is an extremely rare, Bertone Designed, time capsule, 1971 Alfa Romeo Montreal. The car is titled as a 1967, This could have been a simple typo on dmv paperwork or something to do with import smog laws in California when it came to the states in the 1980's? Obviously this car is a 1971 model do to the factory vin number in engine compartment. This car recently came out of a climate controlled private collection where it was lovingly stored. This car is in wonderful, original condition. The paint is nice and shines very well for its age. The chrome and bright work are in great original condition and look great against the bright red. There are a few small cracks in the paint as seen in the pictures. The glass is all original to the car and in great shape with no nicks or cracks. The original Alfa Romeo wheels are in fantastic shape and look almost new. There is no curb rash present and they are extremely clean. There are five total including a full size spare in the trunk as seen in the pictures. The tires have plenty of tread and are in great shape. The interior is in excellent shape for it's age. This car has the option of leather seats, extremely rare option to find on a Montreal. The seats are in great condition with only one small hole on the side of each as seen in the pictures. They have adjustable headrests with wood accents. The dash has one crack as seen in pic, very clean for its age. All the gauges work although the speedo can jump a bit every once in a while. The current mileage reads 48,900 KM and is believed to be original. The fuel gauge works and appears accurate. The temperature gauge works and appears accurate. The tach works and appears accurate. The dash lights work as does the emergency brake light. These gauges are all in Italian and the speedo is in km/hr. The headlights work, the high beams work, the brake lights work. The emergency brake works. Power windows work. The power windows go up and down freely but could probably use some light lubrication. The heater and defroster appear to work as does the horn. The carpet is clean. The headliner is in excellent shape and original to the car. The door panels are in great shape for their age and original to the car. The factory 2.6 Liter Dual Overhead-Cam V8 sounds simply amazing! The factory fuel injection works great with no problems and the engine is extremely clean and well kept as you can see in the pictures. When you rev it and hear the superb sound you understand why Alfa Romeo's derive such passion and love from their owners and car aficionado's the world over. The factory ZF 5-Speed manual transmission shifts great and goes through all the gears smoothly with no binding or sticking. The factory limited slip differential works great with no issues. Brand new battery installed with no charging issues at all. The factory double wishbone suspension with coil springs makes this car ride great! It is smooth going down the road and is a very comfortable ride. The manual steering works well and really gives the driver a feeling of being connected to the road and increases the driving experience exponentially. The power brakes work great and the car stops in a straight line with no pulling to either side. This car is a complete joy to drive and beyond that is is extremely comfortable for a classic Italian sports car. The Bertone design is unmistakable and timeless. From 1970-1977 there were 3917 Alfa Romeo Montreals produced and a very small number of those still survive today, let alone being found in the U.S. This is an excellent investment/collector car as recently prices are starting to rise dramatically as these hidden gems are found. This is not a car you can just go out and find. They very rarely come on the market in such original, survivor condition. Most people have never even seen one in person. Earlier this year at the Gooding Auction a 1971 Alfa Romeo sold for $176,000.00. That car was in restored condition and was not equipped with factory leather. It also has a later production # by about 500 units. The previous year a 1973 sold for $99000.00. Also with a later production #. This shows a 56% increase in 12 months. This car can be enjoyed as a survivor or do a full restoration on the car and when you're finished you will have a $200,000.00 piece of art that you can drive. The original owners manual is included. This is your chance. If you have ever wanted an up and coming Italian sports car that is a phenomenal investment that you can drive and enjoy at the same time. This is the car. This car belongs in a private collection when it can be treated with the same love an enjoyment that the previous owner had. It is truly an Italian Masterpiece and sure to go up in value everyday you own it. The classic car market is on fire right now and is a better investment than stocks or laughable bank interest for an excellent rate of return on your money. This car is being sold at NO RESERVE!!!

TERMS OF SALE:

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS: 510-299-3031

SERIOUS BUYERS ONLY PLEASE.

THERE IS NO WARRANTY EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED.

THIS VEHICLE IS SOLD AS-IS, WHERE-IS.

I RESERVE THE RIGHT TO END THE AUCTION AT ANY TIME.

PLEASE DO NOT BID IF YOU NEED TO GET A LOAN TO COMPLETE THIS TRANSACTION.

NO DEPOSIT IS NECESSARY BUT FULL PAYMENT IS DUE WITHIN THREE (3) DAYS OF THE AUCTION END.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO GET AN INSPECTION PLEASE DO SO BEFORE YOU BID AND BEFORE THE END OF THE AUCTION.

I'M HAPPY TO HELP WITH ORGANIZING AN INSPECTION.

I HAVE DONE MY BEST TO COMPLETELY AND ACCURATELY DESCRIBE THIS CAR.

I ENCOURAGE YOU TO READ THE DESCRIPTION COMPLETELY, LOOK AT ALL THE PICTURES AND SEE THE CAR IN PERSON IF POSSIBLE BEFORE BIDDING.

SHIPPING IS THE BUYERS RESPONSIBILITY.

I AM HAPPY TO HELP WITH SHIPPING ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD SO INTERNATIONAL BUYERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO BID!

I AM LOCATED ONLY MINUTES FROM THE PORT OF OAKLAND AND CAN ARRANGE A DROP-OFF!

ZERO (0) FEEDBACK BIDDERS PLEASE CONTACT ME BEFORE YOU BID.

PLEASE LOOK AT MY FEEDBACK AND BID WITH CONFIDENCE.

The Montreal is an interesting car for sure; while not as pretty as the Miura, it's certainly a lot easier to live with in many ways. You also won't pay the cost of entry, either; while the seller notes that top condition Montreals have soared in recent years towards $200,000, the reality is that most examples fall far below $100,000 today. There's a definite upward trend in their value befitting their unique nature - let's not forget this was Alfa Romeo's halo car of the day - but they're still quite affordable compared to other Italian exotics from the same period. Hagerty places a condition 2 Montreal right around $65,000 - conveniently, exactly where the opening bid is on this no-reserve auction. I'd wager this car is probably appropriately priced there or maybe a few thousand dollars higher in today's market, but not much more. While they're almost certain to increase in value over the next few years, they're not there yet - meaning now is a prime opportunity to jump in to these classic V8 Alfas.

-Carter

Classic, Ferrari, Pininfarina

1974 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS

May 6, 2014 Graham 1 Comment

It's too bad that we don't all have DeLoreans to travel back and put some money into what we'd now consider a sure bet. It wasn't too long ago that the Dino wasn't considered one of the great Ferraris - indeed, step back in time only a few short years to 2009, and you'd find any number of Dinos in the $150,000 range; strong money for those cars at the time, and they were on the downward swing. It seemed that they would, at least for a time, remain affordable. They didn't. By 2011 values were already on the rise, and since 2012 values on the last of the run - the 246 - have all out doubled. They're not alone; Porsche 911s, E30 BMW M3s and a handful of other cars have all seen the same trend. What's ironic about the 246, though, is that it wasn't the headline grabber at the time; it wasn't the big engined Ferrari - heck, it didn't even carry Ferrari badges on it. But that hasn't stopped enthusiasts from driving the value of these mid-engined sports cars up to stratospheric levels:

Year: 1974
Model: Dino GTS
Engine: 2.4 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 24,220 mi
Price: $419,995

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1974 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS

In the 1950’s, Enzo Ferrari’s son Alfredo “Dino” had a heavy influence on the idea to use V6 and V8 engines in Ferrari race cars. Ferrari wanted to compete in the Formula 2 category in 1967 with the new “Dino” V6 engine but was turned down because of the homologation rule requiring 500 or more production vehicles. Ferrari turned to Fiat to and together produced the new Fiat Dino sports car. In the mid 1960’s, Ferrari was experimenting with the mid-engine layout for racing and thought they would build their own mid-engine sports car for the road. Sergio Pininfarina was once again asked to design an all new body which sat on the 206 SP race car chassis and debuted at the 1965 Paris Motor Show. The V6 engine sat longitudinally and was only available in a 2 door 2 seater Berlinetta configuration. The car was so well received that it went the 206 GT went into production for model year 1968 and gave a near perfect weight balance and superb handling. For the March 1972 Geneva Auto Show, Ferrari revamped the Dino and introduced the 246 model available as a Berlinetta Coupe or a GTS Spyder. A larger 2.4 litre engine and better performance and handling characteristics set the 246 apart from the 206 from previous years.

European Motor Studio is very proud to offer this exceptionally restored 1974 Ferrari 246GTS Dino finished in Rosso Corsa over Tan Daytona leather seats. Chassis number 08248 left the Marranello production line and was invoiced to the North American Importer Modern Classic Motors INC on July 18, 1974 and came in through the San Francisco Port. This 246 GTS was equipped new from the factory with Daytona leather seats (“Chairs”), radio with electric antenna electric windows and a painted removable hood. This Dino was then sent to Grand Touring Cars in Phoenix Arizona where it sold to its first owner (Joe Pisano, successful Bonneville competitor and drag racer) on September 24, 1974 in the amount of $19,195. The first owner had the car shipped to Long Beach where the car lived until the second (Lil John Lombardo the auto parts chain dealer and drag racer) and only other owner bought the car sometime in the early 1980’s and brought it to the LA area where the car has been ever since Summer of 2013. European Motor Studio acquired the car from the second owner and brought it to AZ. The car has traveled only 24,200 documented original miles from brand new and does not show any signs of accident or damage history anywhere. All of the exterior trim and interior had been removed from the car and a bare metal re-spray was completed on the car in desirable Rosso Corsa paint and the interior was re-trimmed in tan leather interior. Absolutely no rust or corrosion is found anywhere on this car. All of the mechanicals have been rebuilt/restored as well as the electrical system. This Dino is in absolutely exceptional and stunning near perfect condition mechanically and cosmetically. It runs and drives superbly and does not have any issues whatsoever. It does not smoke or idle rough, there are no shakes or rattles anywhere and the car does not have any unusual noises. Thorough and exceptional maintenance throughout the cars life has been given and just recently replaced coolant hoses, fuel and oil lines and rebuilt brake calipers and new Michellin XWX tires are just some of the recent items that have just been done to the car. The compression check on the 6 cylinders is near perfect and all very close to each other. The car has its original complete tool roll in its original leather bag, the original jack in its original leather bag, the original spare tire on a Michellin XWX tire, the original Ferrari Dino leather pouch housing all of the original owners manuals, warranty books, dealer books, car care book and parts manual are all present with the car. A copy of the original odometer statement, new car invoice, manufactures statement of origin and window sticker along with documented and receipts dating back to 1985 are all present with the car. This is an exceptional Ferrari 246GTS Dino in near showroom condition that runs and drives superb.

Please call or email if you have any questions regarding this 1974 Ferrari 246GTS Dino. 480-310-8814

Obviously, the condition at this asking price is top notch, and it certainly falls in line with current values of Dinos - as shocking as that may sound. While the car itself is beautiful, my favorite feature must be the Campagnolo wheels - they're amazing and transform the look of the Dino. As of May 2014, Hagerty values a condition 1 246 Dino at a staggering $445,000; money that only a few years ago would have bought you three. It's not just a recent trend though - check out that original sticker price of shy of $20,000 - adjusted for inflation, it's only $95,000 in today's money. You'd be hard pressed to get a decently spec'd 911 for that money today, never mind a mid-engined Ferrari. No, the value days of these are long gone, and we're left with distant memories of days of affordable exotics. If you're smart, you very similar styling with a V8 engine in the 308 and 328 for only 1/10th the asking price of the Dino these days. Will the 308/328 follow suit? Probably not, though we're sure to see an increase in value on those soon, too.

-Carter

Alfa Romeo, Classic

1973 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000

May 4, 2014 Graham

There's something very special and very right about the styling on the 105/115 GTV; it's just a proper looking car, no matter if it's in stock configuration or modified with huge arches. The overhangs are just right, the proportion of glass to roofline works, the fenders have lovely compound curves, the chrome is just so; it's a fine looking automobile from a period when there were a lot of forgettable automobiles in general. Because of this, it's also been a traditionally popular model for modifications - some look great, and others so so. The other day I wrote up an updated GTV 1750; it kept the original style while adding a touch of modernity with an updated drivetrain. Today's example is a little more wild - turned up a few notches and rest-modded, what it lacks in originality it's made up in charisma:

Year: 1973
Model: GTV 20000
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 11,038 mi
Price: No Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1973 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000

1973 ALFA ROMEO GTV 2000

Up for auction is a 1973 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000, rust free, accident free, California car with clean title.
This GTV has a recent cosmetic restoration, and extensive performance tuning in the recent years of 13 years of ownership.

COSMETICS - The Alfa has been repainted in Rosso Corsa Red within the last 3 months. Before the repaint, the body was straight, but had an older paint job with peeling clear coat throughout. No body work was done, no rust issues or bubbling to repair. Brand new grill was added and painted. All trim, bumpers, and mirrors repainted gloss black as before.
Freshly powder coated 15" "Turbine" wheels on sport tires. H4 Headlights.

MECHANICS - The Alfa has just had a break job with new pads in front and back. New Carburetor mounts have recently been installed and Weber DCOE 45s have been tuned. New alternator.
Sperry Valve Works is a reputable Alfa Romeo tuner and was responsible for an extensive overhaul with their STAGE 5 package. This package is suitable for high performance street and track engines. Some of the package features includes: High performance valve job, silicon/aluminum bronze valve guides with Viton seals, performance valve springs, port & polish head and intake manifold, Euro manifold, oversized valves and seats, HP-4 Cam with 11.5mm cam lift, and more. Weber DCOE 45s, electric fuel pump, water pump, electric cooling fans, Hi-Po pistons and sleeves just to name a few of the other upgrades.
This extensive performance overhaul resulted in 165hp and 7,000rpm red line.

The suspension was upgraded with performance springs reducing height by 1 inch. Performance "Stinger" exhaust.
The clutch is good with master cylinder and slave cylinder previously replaced. The gearbox shifts well through all gears except the typical Alfa 2nd gear, which grinds a bit when shifting at high rpm.
Original spare, original jack tools are in the trunk. New battery with quick release, strapped in the trunk.

The Alfa been extensively upgraded for street performance, but is a few safety upgrades short of track competition. Thousands of dollars was spent on all the upgrades, and I have LOTS of receipts and engine built sheet to prove it. With all the performance upgrades, this GTV has lots of power with a huge power band, has a vicious exhaust note, handles very well, and is a blast to drive.

I can be reached for question at (424) 442-9042 Edgar

I can assist with getting a transportation quote from a reliable carrier.

Certainly there's a lot of work that's gone into this car and it looks the part. I stared at the wheels for a while before finally recognizing the model they came from; they're Mustang GT wheels, believe it or not, without the centercaps. While I'm typically not a fan of black wheels, the combination of the Rosso Corsa with the black details really makes this GTV stand out, coupled with an upgraded suspension and more power, there's a lot to like here. However, I'd still want to inspect the car closely before purchasing; that glossy paint could easily be hiding some body work, or worse - rust. Value on these GTVs has been flat for a few years, and I'd expect this car to be valued in the $25,000 - $28,000 range. At that price, it's a great alternative to the 2002 tii crowd, and much cheaper than the car it shares some traits with in this setup - the Hakosuka GTR.

-Carter

Autobianchi

1959 Autobianchi Transformable

May 4, 2014 Graham

Having just spent part of my spring holiday in Lisbon, Portugal, I have images of this Autobianchi Transformable fitting right into the scene. Looking cheerful in pastel yellow, this diminutive Italian would fit right in amongst the colorful, tiled buildings and palm trees while bouncing down the cobbled streets. Based on the Fiat 500, these cars were available in sedan, roadster, estate and van body styles, along with the Transformable, or convertible that you see here. This Transformable has a recently rebuilt engine and is for sale by our friends at Ocean Drive Motors in Ontario, Canada.

Year: 1959
Model: Transformable
Engine: 650cc inline-2
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: N/A
Price: $44,000

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1959 Autobianchi Transformable

This rare Italian micro car was only produced from 1959 to 1961 in this very collectible transformable convertible model powered by a fresh rebuilt 650cc 2 cylinder engine and transmission. Capable of cruising at 100km/hr with no double clutching for gear down shifting. This is a excellent example of one of the most attractive and collectible micro cars. This beautiful Autobianchi has been completely resorted to high quality standards with a added sound system and iPod sync unit. This very rare Italian micro car is ready to drive and will make a great addition to any collection. Price: $44,000.00

Prices for micro cars in the past couple of years have been shooting up. It used to be that you could easily snag one of these Autobianchis for well under $20,000, but even drivers in rougher shape than our featured car here are fetching in the mid $20,000 range. While it could be a pricer option than a Smart car, just think how smart you would look cruising in the city in one of these, enjoying the size and economy benefits of a small car with a healthy dose of 1950s Italian design.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

May 3, 2014 Graham

Earlier in the week, I wrote up a low-mileage 1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce; it's one of the more affordable classic Italian Spiders you can pick up these days. Well, Ocean Drive Motors has an even more affordable version of nearly the same car; this time in more traditional red, they've got another 1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce on offer:

Year: 1991
Model: Spider
Engine: . liter
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 71,957 mi
Price: $11,900

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1991 Alfa Romeo Spider

1991 ALFA ROMEO

MODEL: SPIDER
DRIVE TYPE: REAR WHEEL
CYLINDERS: 4
HORSEPOWER: 120.00Bhp (88.3KW) @ 5800.00 RPM
Hp/LITER: 60.0 BH / LITER
FUEL FEED: FUEL INJECTED
BLOCK: ALUMINUM
HEAD: ALUMINUM
STOCK #: 8011
ODOMETER: 71,957
EXTERIOR COLOUR: RED
INTERIOR COLOUR: TAN
VIN #: ZARBB32N7006007839
PRICE: $11,900.00
FEATURES: NEW TIRES, NEW BRAKES, ALWAYS
SERVICED,

If you're looking for a low mileage, pristine example, the first option is obviously better for you; however, at only 72,000 miles it's not exactly like this one has racked up an unreasonable amount of trips around the block. Condition overall appears to be nearly as good as the first example, and you get a 50% discount over the asking price of the white example. Personally, for a bit of classic Italian motoring that wasn't going to my primary transportation, I'd be willing to accept that discount. The higher miles will require more maintenance, sure, but I wouldn't be too afraid to add to the total by taking trips down by the seaside. There's a great drive along the seaside in Newport, Rhode Island called Ocean Drive; it's a winding relatively low speed road that I just see as the perfect fit for a little top down enjoyment of the seaside air - and this car fits the budget, too.

-Carter

Classic, Giugiaro, Italdesign, Maserati

1975 Maserati Merak Targa

May 3, 2014 Graham

I've posted this Merak to our CICFS Facebook Fanpage, so what's it doing back here? Well, first off, it's a nice example that's worth taking a look at; the Merak is one of the prettier "wedge" designs from Giugiaro, even if it lacked the performance of its big brother Bora. But what's unique about this one is what has occurred to the roof; because unlike nearly every other Merak out there, this one's a Targa::

Year: 1975
Model: Merak
Engine: 3.0 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 76,900 mi
Price: Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1975 Maserati Merak

1975 Maserati Merak AM122-2182

Customization by Steering Wheel Inc. in South Florida circa. 1975. This particular car was delivered new to the US in 1975, and had it's roof customized by Tom Clark Sr. the owner of SWI. The book this car is documented in is on page 222 of "The Maserati Road Cars, Post war production cars 1946-1979 by Richard Crump/Rob de la Rive Box".

The strengthening of the chassis was done at the sills, the windscreen pillars were gusseted on the seams (see book photograph, main picture). This part of the roof work was done by local company, Trust Manufacturing Co.

It came with a blue interior originally, which has since been changed to the current caramel hides you see today. It is in driver condition, with many documents and receipts for work done in the past 30+ years.

With her original Campagnolo wheels, she has had 1 re-spray (by Gene Winfield btw for you SoCal hot rod nuts), in 1982, major services (hydraulics/clutch) in 2003 and 2008, and remains largely original with 76,9xx miles showing.

The paint is not perfect, nor is it a show car, but more of a "good ol' nail of a driver" (as my friend says). Purchased new in Florida in 1975, she then went to California and remained with the same owner for the next 37 years. Tons of paperwork and receipts go with the car, detailed documentation and papers for everything that was worked on.

The Merak is really just a nice, California, no major issues Driver, that needs a new home, she starts right up @ cold, idles great, doesn't run hot, shifts, brakes and drives down the road quite well. She has never been wrecked, or damaged, clean, no issues, straight car, with no Smog too!!! (we have a Video of a Cold start and a quick drive off in her).

Please keep in mind, this car is 39 years old! It has never been restored, it has it's imperfections, so if you're looking for a "show" car, move on! I am upfront and blunt, I do not need to sugarcoat things like some people who sell. Pooling through the documentation on her, what I'm asking for the car and than some, adds up in receipts alone...

A clean, no stories, California Title (1975 NO SMOG!) comes with the car. The Merak also comes with (2) keys, original Owner's Manual, and 40+ pages of receipts/documentation.

Some areas of attention are as follows.

-All of the hydraulic lights on the dash work, and gauges (except noted gas gauge)

-A/C car, but currently non-functional, fan motor and defrost etc. run though

-Crack rear flying buttress (picture)

-Crack front bumper (picture)

-Chip in hood above Trident (picture)

-Hood latch is not working properly (hence the "ajar" look of the fitment per pictures, common)

-Driver window is slow going up/down

-Gas gauge is INOP

If you need more information or pictures, please let me know I'll do my best. Car is located in Roseville, CA at my best friends shop.

-Please call if you wish to discuss, Ken @ 203-770-0839 CT, or Nick if you'd like to stop by and look at the Maserati @ 916-792-1645

-It has nicks, imperfections and some small areas of surface rust here and there. I have tried to take as many good, informative pictures as possible, if there is any area left out, please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate.

To those seriously interested parties, I have a DropBox with all of the papers/documentation uploaded I can send if interested in looking through it. Also, please note, if you would like more information about this cars history, I have made contact with Tom Clark Jr. in Florida, and he would be willing to discuss the car with prospective, serious individuals.

If you saw the 1975 Merak sell @ Auctions America a month back, you know that the values on these cars have increased. My reserve is respectful to the condition of the vehicle, and far below what the auction car sold for...

Happy Bidding, someone's going to really enjoy this mid-engined car...

Shipping is 100% the buyers responsibility, though we will do as much as possible to help. PPI's may be requested if given ample time, and if scheduling can be made without a time hassle. Thank you.

*Due to 2 non-paying buyers, this has been re-listed, and I am looking for a serious buyer, not a time waster...Thanks*

* Please note, if you have less than 5 feedback, you need to contact me before bidding, or you risk having your bid deleted.

**Please note, this vehicle is sold, as is, where is, condition, no warranty is expressed or implied.

***Please note, I take my time very seriously, and you should to, so please do not waste mine, and I will not waste yours. Do NOT bid on this car if you have no intentions or the means to purchase it. Do NOT win this auction only to show up wanting to "inspect", the duration of the auction time is the appropriate time for that action, not after the fact.

Yesterday on our sister site German Cars For Sale Blog, I wrote up a converted Porsche 928 - questioning the sanity of anyone that would take the roof off of an otherwise perfectly good coupe. I'm not sure why this was such a trend, but obviously it extended into the 1970s as well. It was reportedly converted when new and is generally original. These original run Meraks - during the Citroen ownership period - generally aren't the ones that are the most sought after, nor is this one in the best condition. But it's a neat piece of history for Maserati fans and I'm sure would be welcome at any meet; as a conversation starter alone, it's worth the story, especially with the documentation there!

-Carter

Ferrari, Modern Classic, Pininfarina

1990 Ferrari F40

May 2, 2014 Graham

I'm guessing everyone who has seen the Ferrari F40 in person (and many that haven't) have their own personal F40 story; so, here's mine. When I was a younger lad, our local luxury dealership struck a deal with a patron to purchase two Ferrari F40s. If it sounds outrageous, it was even more outrageous how much the contract was for - at the time, several million dollars. You may remember that Ferrari lost their proverbial shirt on the 288 GTO; speculators bought up the limited production run, turned around and sold many of them at an outrageous profit - in some cases, up to 10 times the original purchase price. Determined not to have that happen again, Ferrari priced the F40 at a then outrageous $500,000 give or take, but many dealers demanded premiums up to a few million dollars. Presuming that - like the stock market - the supercar market would continue to rise to the heavens, many speculators signed up. It was a sure bet, afterall! Then the crash of 1989 occurred, and shortly thereafter the supercar market tanked. It killed many of the late 1980s and early 1990s cars entirely, and some supercar makers folded up entirely. That didn't happen to Ferrari, obviously, though it sure helped that Fiat held the checkbook at the time. In any event, the market on these cars came way back to reality, and this particular speculator - who had agreed to pay millions for the delivery of the second F40 - suddenly found said car to be worth only a fraction of his outstanding contract. He refused delivery, the dealership sued - and won. They retained the car and several million dollars, which they utilized to build a new addition to the dealership for some crazy upstart from Japan called "Lexus" - but who would be crazy enough to pay a premium for re-badged Toyotas?

Anyway, my part in the story. My father had a friend at said dealership who called him up to come see this F40. If they're not exactly commonplace now, they certainly weren't in 1989, either, yet here I was, confronted with one and being told I could sit in it. Of course, I had studied the F40 extensively, and knew the car like the back of my hand. In person, it was even more impressive than the magazines had related; it was like confronting a hurricane, tornado and tidal wave of force all wrapped in one pretty red package. The slats and vents reminded me of the 250 GTO, and like that car it was a thinly veiled race car that you could put number plates on. Glue leaked out of seams, it smelled like burnt plastic inside, the finish was horrible in places - it felt sort of cheap compared to the immaculately finished Porsches they also had at the dealer. There were no frills, and the carbon fiber doors were so wispy-thin that I got out and unintentionally slammed the door closed. Both my father and his friend gasped; the sticker price on the car, after all, was about 4 times what my father's house was worth at the time. Fast forward to today, and like the real estate market it turns out it would have been pretty smart to buy at the time, because today it's ask is about 3 times what it was when new once again - we've come full circle:

Year: 1990
Model: F40
Engine: 2.9 liter twin-turbocharged V8
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 5,287 mi
Price: $1,300,000

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1990 Ferrari F40

1990 FERRARI F40

--Red with Red, 5,000 miles from new, 5-speed transmission, Tubi sport exhaust system.

This F40 is absolutely superb, fully serviced throughout and come complete with Ferrari Classiche Certification.

This F40 is immaculate in all respects, it is complete with all books, tools and records as originally delivered from the factory.

Not much more needs to be said in the description; you're not likely to be able to afford one, but they sure are pretty to look at and amazing in person. Thanks to the internet, we've gotten to see more exposure on the F40 than ever over the past few years and if anything, the legend is even bigger than when it was new. The last great car produced under the leadership of Enzo, this car was and is a monster - both in performance and design. While the price may seem outrageous now and is certainly above market value - Hagerty puts a top F40 just over 1,000,000 - I'd guess that in a few decades we'll again look back and see it wasn't so outrageous, afterall - this car will undoubtedly stand alongside such greats as the 250GTO and Daytona as one of the best Ferraris ever made.

-Carter

Maserati, Modern Classic, Zagato

1987 Maserati Biturbo Zagato

May 1, 2014 Graham 1 Comment

The Maserati Biturbo has always been a car that fascinated me; perhaps it's that I grew up in the 1980s where box-tacular designs were the norm, but there was something about the styling of the Biturbo that I always found appealing. It was tight and compact, sporty with enough flare that it really stood out. I was especially a fan of the dished wheels and still am. Compared to the somewhat oddly proportioned Quattroporte III, the Biturbo just looked right. That continued under the hood, where from a performance standpoint the Biturbo was fairly impressive; at least, on paper. In an era where 140-150 horsepower was considered "good", the twin turbocharged V6 put out a lofty 180 horsepower. Not all of that transferred into pulse-pounding performance, but still it was more than adequate for the time period; remember, that's more than some American V8s were pushing at the time. Still, the Biturbo didn't gain the best reputation, meaning you can pick up clean examples today for not much money, such as this clean example from Ocean Drive Motors:

Year: 1987
Model: Biturbo Zagato
Engine: 2.5 liter twin-turbocharged V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 29,008 mi
Price: $9,000

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1987 Maserati Biturbo Zagato

1987 MASERATI BITURBO

MODEL: BITURBO ZAGATO
DRIVE TYPE: REAR WHEEL
CYLINDERS: 6
HORSEPOWER: 180.00 BHP (1325 KW) @ 6000.00 RPM
Hp / LITER: 90.0 BHP / LITER
FUEL FEED: FUEL INJECTED
BLOCK: ALUMINUM
HEAD: ALUMINUM

STOCK #: 8029
ODOMETER: 29,008 MILES
EXTERIOR COLOUR: SILVER
INTERIOR COLOUR: TAN
VIN #: ZAMPM1106HA331332
PRICE: $9,500.00
FEATURES: SERVICE RECORDS, NO RADIO, CONV. TOP NEEDS REPLACEMENT, RE-BUILT ELECTRICAL RELAY BOARD,

*VERY LOW MILEAGE – EXCELLENT SHAPE*

Though they look very similar to the sedan, the Spyder version of the Biturbo was styled by Zagato and rode on a shortened chassis, making it strictly a two seater. The color combination on this particular car is nice and understated; red and white were quite popular, so it's nice to see something a little different. While I'm not a fan of the overly-plush looking seats from 1980s Maseratis, overall the condition of this car inside and out is very clean. There are some needs, such as the replacement top, but if you're on a budget and want some unusual Italian fun in the sun, this Biturbo could be a fun sun project car. Overall it is priced pretty accurately in the marketplace for these Biturbos.

-Carter

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

April 30, 2014 Graham 1 Comment

Rivaling the Porsche 911 and Volkswagen Beetle for one of the longest production runs, the Alfa Romeo Spider went through a host of changes (as did the 911 and Beetle) over its nearly 30 years in production; from the classic and simple "Graduate" Duetto until the last of the run in 1993, the Spider was a classic pillar of Italian design, an underscore to the notion that Italian roadsters were front engine, rear drive cars with a manual gearbox - something that would disappear from Alfa Romeos until the 8C very recently. What better way to celebrate in that idea than to look at the last of the run Series 4 Spider, on offer from Ocean Drive Motors:

Year: 1991
Model: Spider Veloce
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 29,722 mi
Price: $ 22,900

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

MODEL: SPIDER VELOCE
DRIVE TYPE: REAR WHEEL
CYLINDERS: 4
HORSEPOWER: 120.00Bhp (88.3KW) @ 5800.00 RPM
Hp/LITER: 60.0 BH / LITER
FUEL FEED: FUEL INJECTED

EXTERIOR COLOUR: WHITE
INTERIOR COLOUR: TAN

STOCK #: 8060
ODOMETER: 29,722 00

THIS BEAUTIFUL 1991 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER VELOCE HAS ONLY 29,722 00 ORIGINAL MILES. IT IS EQUIPPED WITH POWER STEERING, POWER DISC BRAKES, POWER WINDOWS, POWER ANTENNA AND AIR CONDITIONING. THE INTERIOR IS ALL ORIGINAL AND IN EXCEPTIONAL CONDITION. THE TOP IS ALSO ORIGINAL AND IN NEAR PERFECT CONDITION. NEW KONI FRONT SHOCKS, REAR MUFFLER, TIE RODS AND BALL JOINTS RECENTLY REPLACED.

Of all of the Spiders, I like the original Duettos and the last of the run Spider Veloces the best. Sure, the body cladding isn't as clean as the original design, but the car looked updated and really showed how good that original design could still look in the 1990s. To me, it was the same way that the 1980s Porsche 911 Carrera channeled the cleaner original design. With modern conveniences like electric windows and air conditioning, the Spider was also updated to make it a more enjoyable car to drive when the weather was less than optimal. The Veloce was the top of the line model, with leather seating, a cloth top and 15" alloy wheels. This is one of the lower mile examples we've seen; I love the white over tan leather as a classic Alfa combination, and recent maintenance means there should be less for the new owner to do except drop the top and enjoy some classic Italian roadster smiles with a touch of modernity.

-Carter

Alfa Romeo, Bertone, Classic

1969 Alfa Romeo GTV 1750

April 28, 2014 Graham

Though not the most prolific version of the 105/115 series coupes, the 1750 GTV shared the basic tenants that united the many versions; light weigh, great styling, and a super drivetrain. An instant classic, they managed to be as memorable as the Guiliettas they replaced, and certainly made the following chapter all the more difficult for the Alfetta. Today's example is beautiful if somewhat untraditional Vivid Verde, sporting a older restoration but also a heat transplant:

Year: 1969
Model: GTV 1750
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 7,750 mi
Price: Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1969 Alfa Romeo GTV 1750

Beautiful restoration about 10 years ago returning this Bertone-bodied coupe back to its factory original green - "Vivid Verde." Parts were re-plated as necessary. All weather stripping was replaced, all glass is original. Interior was completely redone in beautiful black leather that looks - and smells - phenomenal. New carpets, new headliner, new dash board, rebuilt instruments all make the interior better than new. Note that the odometer was reset to zero when the car was rebuilt, original miles are unknown. Seatbelts are Schroth competition-style 4-point belts (http://www.schrothracing.com/competition), original belts Klippan belt are included and can be easily installed if preferred. Center console is custom made to emulate the earlier GTA-style and covered in leather as well. Transmission was rebuilt with new synchros and lightened gears by Merrit (http://www.speedquest.com/my/gearlightning/index.html) and shifts quickly and perfectly. Engine is a 2 liter motor from a 1989 Alfa Spider including the excellent Bosch fuel injection. The battery was relocated to the trunk both to accommodate the FI system and better weight distribution. The custom cold-air air intake box is made of polished stainless and covers a K&N filter. The original 1750 motor is included with the sale as well as the original dash, wheels, hub caps, springs etc. New exhaust system with GTA end pipe was installed at that time as well. Koni adjustable shocks and Performance springs all around. Radiator was rebuilt. Brakes have been changed to a single brake booster arrangement. Car is pictured with "daily" floor mats that protect the perfect carpet, show-condition floor mats with the Alfa logo are included. Windshield washer pump is not installed but it is included.

This is a ten-year-old restoration and the car has a few minor imperfections, but it has been garage kept and very well cared for. It shows very, vey well. There are few minor scratches on the rims and the windshield. There is a small crack in the paint next to the driver's door handle as shown in the photos. It has been shown at Concorso Italiano in Monterey for many years. It starts instantly, runs excellent, drives like only a well-sorted Alfa can. Steering is precise and brakes are excellent. Tires will need replacing soon.

There are 60 more photos of the car here: http://s156.photobucket.com/user/annabelleharper/slideshow/1969%20GTV

Test drives are welcome, just ask. Car is located in Mountain View, CA. Payment must be complete before the car ships but I will meet a car moving service if you arrange for it and pay for it.

If you have any questions, please ask. If you need any clarification or additional pictures, please ask. I want to make sure you are getting exactly what you expect.

Personally, I'm a fan of the build; I like the updated engine package in the classically designed coupe. I did a very similar swap in my Audi GT, updating the engine for a more headache-free running condition. It worked while simultaneously making the car a better performer; my guess is this package is quite similar. Value has been a little flat on these GTVs over the past few years, but still a top condition 1969 would set you back around $50,000. This car loses some of that value with the older restoration and heart swap, but I'd estimate at $28,000 to $32,000 this car would be well bought.

-Carter