Tag Archives: 1975

1975 Lamborghini Espada Project

July 16, 2014 Graham

Over the past few years, major automobile manufacturers have "pioneered" a new concept; the Grand Coupe design. Cars like the BMW M6, Audi RS7 and Mercedes-Benz CLSs have seen a return of the swoopy lines with, in the case of the Audi, a practical hatchback design. But this concept really isn't new at all; personal luxury coupes have been around for some time, and one of the best has to be the Lamborghini Espada. Room for 4 plus luggage, a fabulous V12 soundtrack and great looks make this one of the most desirable classic Lamborghinis made in my mind:

Year: 1975
Model: Espada
Engine: 4.0 liter V12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 48,161 mi
Price: Reserve Auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1975 Lamborghini Espada on Ebay

I am reluctantly selling my 1975 Euro Espada. In 2002, I was perusing Hemmings and saw this car was being sold, and as it was only 4 blocks from my house, how could I not go and at least take a look. When I went to look at it I found it was a Euro market car. This meant it had the small chrome bumpers, no emission controls, and the dual alternator setup. It also had the euro side markers/turn signals and no ugly Federal corner lights. I much prefer the interior layout of this S3, but I admit that not having the earlier style Miura wheels is a drawback. The story I was told by the seller was that his dad bought the car new in Italy where he was living at the time. His dad relocated to Texas where it remained until 2001 when his son drove it to California. I have a clear Texas signed and undated title. I never signed it or registered it in my name. I assume that if you are reading this you have some knowledge about this model, and Lamborghinis in general. They are not for the faint of heart or the casual wrench. Parts and/or service are VERY expensive.

Big bonus- 1975 model cars are exempt from emission testing in California.

It drove well and everything (except the A/C) worked. It has the desirable power steering (not sure if that was on all S3 models). I did notice that it had a recent paint job that looked pretty good on the surface, but I suspected that the prep work was not very good. This proved to be correct as the paint has now cracked and bubbled in several places. It appears to be very original throughout and doesn't seem to have been "messed" with. I find no signs that it has ever really been worked on or modified(other than paint and front seats) The front seats have obviously been recovered, and not that well done relative to the original quality (pattern is also not correct as seen on the rear seats which have not been redone). The windshield is also delaminating, showing small bubbles between the layers of glass. The rest of the glass is excellent. Some front carpet pieces up front are missing. The major flaw in the car is the frame on the drivers side where the lower control arm attaches. It is of square tubing and has severe rust on the lower horizontal side of the tube, making it unsafe to drive in my opinion. I have the front clip of an S2 (photo available) which is included in the sale, which has excellent frame components, that I believe are the same. It could also be repaired in situ. There are also several spots of improper jack placement with corresponding damage to the floor (on the driver's side only for some reason). The exhaust looks excellent with the exception of a rust repair on one of the mufflers. The throttle linkages including the carb butterfly shaft seals/bearings are very good. It has the original locking gas caps and under hood heat pad material in very good condition. The aluminum hood and the rest of the body is very straight and in excellent condition. I cannot guarantee it, of course, but I can find no sign of body damage/repair.

As I began to work on the engine I found cracks at the base of intake manifolds (which I found out was a relatively common problem) which of course was letting in unmetered air, causing a lean condition. Now the list of "might as wells" began. I removed the manifolds and had them repaired to a very high standard, then powder coated in an aluminum color. I started accumulating parts as seen in pictures including, new plug wire set, 6 Weber DCOE rebuilt kits, gasket set, air filters, hydraulic reservoirs, Earl's stainless line and fittings for carb fuel lines, belts, filters, water thermostat, timing chains, rebuilt the water pump with new bearings and seals, windshield gasket, etc. I cleaned and powder coated many parts including the valve covers (one of which I sanded to reveal lettering- as seen in picture). I purchased new chrome acorn nuts and studs. I even made a copy of the factory tool for adjusting the timing chains. I also powder coated the grill elements and replaced the headlights with E-code H4 and H1 units. The rear tail light clusters are brand new (housings and lenses) as well as the white parking light lenses up front. Reproduction owners manual, original tech manual, and original parts list is included.

Compression tests and leak down as follows, cylinders 1 thru 12 : 210/18%, 225/24%, 220/26%, 210/28%, 210/27%, 210/14%, 240/34%, 215/30%, 220/14%, 215/28%, 220/28%, 210/24%

In my opinion, this car would be a very worthy candidate for a complete restoration. It could however be reassembled and the frame repaired and enjoyed as is. Although expensive, even if you are doing much of the work yourself, I think it could be done not "too" far out of the current money. I also believe that these models will being going up in value substantially. So after saying that, why am I selling? Well, mostly the usual reasons. I have a lack of funds and time to complete all of the projects I currently have. This car deserves a competent restoration, as I would be surprised if even half of the 1200 or so produced still exist.

I can assist, at a cost, with enclosed transport if within a days drive.

I have lots more pictures available and will take pictures of anything specific upon request. Please ask all questions and you will get 100% honest answers. Although I have done my best to accurately describe the vehicles condition I strongly suggest that the vehicle is seen in person so that there are no disappointments.

Overall this car presents well and looks great with European-spec bumpers. There are certainly some question marks and big bills if you want to get it together or completely restore it, but putting it together and driving it surely is possible. Unless you're talented and planning to do the work yourself, it would likely be less of a headache to just buy one complete - but this is a Lamborghini, and Lamborghinis are made of stories - what better story to have than resurrecting a raging bull?

-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

1975 Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2

March 12, 2014 Graham

Following in my "Budget Ferrari" Dino post from the other day, here's another opportunity to get into a real budget car. A few years ago, if you wanted a budget Daytona, you got a 365 GTC/4. They could be had for under $100,000 and offered a pretty close copy of the Daytona with a touch more practicality. Heck, even in their own was the GTC/4 was a very pretty car. But the GTC/4 only lasted for a year, and it was replaced by the longest running body design of any Ferrari. Styled by Pininfarina, the 1972 Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2 introduced new design language that would be shared on Ferraris through the 355. But while the rakish 2+2 took the body in an entirely new direction, underneath it was still effectively a Daytona. While a Daytona will set you back the best part of a 1/2 million dollars these days, and the GTC/4 prices are pushing towards $150,000 for an average example, the 2+2 can be had for well under $50,000. It's also nearly a forgotten car these days, but was important to Ferrari as their 2+2 staple from 1972 all the way to 1989 in later 400 then 412 versions. But the 365 started it all, and this is one of the better examples that has come up to market recently:

Year: 1975
Model: 365 GT4 2+2
Engine: 4.4 liter V12
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 38,000 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1975 Ferrari 365 GT4 2+2

Here we have today an incredible 1975 ferrari 365GT4 2+2 ,ONLY ONE OWNER since new,this car was bought by his owner in june 1975 and was always stored in the same collection,in a dry garage,sitting side alfa's and others italian icons;this car is in stunning condition and i never seen a ferrari in this condition,the car is absolutely in perfect condition; NEVER RESTORED or REPAINTED..................the last owner has a mechanic at home and taked care of all cars of his collection and this car was started every week ,to be keeping in good using condition;

theses cars were unloved during a long time and now,there are growing up in value like all maserati and ferrari of this era,this is the time to buy this car and you can not found a better exemple actually on the market

the car has formely 53900 originals kms,and was just serviced with fluids and filters remplaced ,new battery,;personal inspection welcome,you can not be disappointed by the car

IF YOU LIKE THIS MODEL, THIS IS THE ONE you have to bought,of course the paint is perfect,no dings or scratchs,floor and underframe are perfect,ever the bumpers are perfect too; the leather original interior is in very good condition and smells good ,carpets are in excellent condition;

this car is viewing by appointment in my office,in Domont,france;20 kms from paris and aeroport charles de gaulle;you can come to inspect it ,you will enjoy it;of course there is no warranty on the car because of his age,;

internationals bidders are welcome and i can assist in shipping ,i can deliver the car to le havre port for free,overseas shipping at your own expense;

selling classic cars is my job,and bidding is not a joke,please do it seriously,have a look at my feedback,you will not be disappointed; i sold cars in all over the world for 10 years and i want to preserve my positive feedback;

when was the last time you found a one owner ferrari 365???? dont let your chance go away .....

a $1000 deposit will be required at the end of auction and balance will be required within 2 weeks...,if you have any questions ,please ask before bidding

good luck

If you're not as concerned with how people will view you and would rather have a taste of that Columbo V12 experience that made the Daytona and GTC/4 so special, this is a pretty similar car inside and underneath. It's rather funny, actually, that you can buy one of these for less than a replacement motor for a Daytona. I'm also surprised that these haven't all fallen victim to rebody efforts. Miles are lower, the color is pretty and understated, and it was apparently lovingly kept by a single owner. In terms of budget supercars, they don't get much more budget than this. Granted, it's not the best looking Ferrari ever made by any stretch of the imagination; but it has its own charm in the unloved child sort of way. I'd expect the reserve is set quite high for this model, towards the high side of the market which just brushes $60,000. Still, it's downright cheap compared to its siblings and offers a unique glimpse at classic Ferrari ownership.

-Carter

Fiat

1975 Fiat 131S Mirafiori

December 2, 2013 Graham 5 Comments

We featured a 1979 Fiat Brava last week and I thought to myself, my oh my, finding a 131/Brava in this shape is a near impossible task these days. Well, apparently these Fiats are multiplying, because here comes an early sedan variant for sale in New York in a decidedly seventies color.

Year: 1979
Model: 131S Mirafiori
Engine: 1.8 liter inline-4
Transmission: 3-speed automatic
Mileage: 40,361 mi
Price: $5,900

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1975 Fiat 131S Mirafiori

1975 FIAT 131 S MIRAFIORI ... 40,361 Original Miles

Engine: 4 Cyl, 1.8L
Transmission: Auto
Exterior: Green
Interior: Brown
Body Style: Sedan
VIN: 131A30046560

This ONE OWNER, ARIZONA BEAUTY looks almost as good as when it came from the factory in 1975. Engine is in good shape, does not smoke, does not leak, nice and quiet. Our mechanics performed basic tune-up on this car and an oil change. Automatic transmission feels perfect, shifts without any problems, without delay, and without noise. Suspension is in excellent shape, car tracks nice and straight. We have replaced brakes on this beauty. There is no evidence of any electrical problems.

The exterior is in excellent shape for a 1975. The paint looks original with absolutely no rust anywhere on the car. Vinyl seats, carpet floor and glass are all in great shape. Our upholstery shop has installed brand new vinyl seats. They have took extra care to keep the original design. Interior of this car is nice and clean. This FIAT has 4 matching brand new tires that are mounted on good straight rims.

It will be sold with a clear title and it will be sold as-is, where-is.

Compared to the two door Brava we featured last week, this 131S has some pluses and minuses. While this sedan variant has covered a lot less miles over the years, the GM sourced 3-speed automatic will sap a lot of the fun out of the driving experience. I should know, as my mother owned a 1978 131S coupe with this very transmission when I was a young kid. These Fiats aren't exactly the most collectable of valued Italian cars, so I would suspect swapping in a 5-speed manual gearbox wouldn't affect the value all that much. Even more so than the silver two-door featured last week, this has to be the best 131/Brava I have seen for sale in the US in the past several years.

-Paul

Fiat

1975 Fiat 124 Coupe

June 2, 2013 Graham 3 Comments

Following on to the rare Fiat 130 Coupe we featured a few days ago, here's another Fiat Coupe from the 1970s: the 124 Coupe. This 124 Coupe is the final "CC" iteration, with 1975 representing the final year of this compact coupe. It's open roofed sibling, the 124 Spider, would live on to see another decade. While 124 Spiders are rather plentiful, this 124 Coupe for sale in Portland offers the collector a rare chance to get one of these in complete, if not perfect, shape.

Year: 1975
Model: 124 Coupe
Engine: 2.0 liter inline four
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 52,943 miles
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1975 Fiat 124 Coupe

Hello, and welcome to my eBay auction. Before I start I want to apologize to those of you out there that know far more than I do about the history and details and facts about these cars. I am a fan of them and a “car guy”, but I just have never had the pleasure of even seeing one of these cars let alone owning one. This is my first drive down 124 coupe laneJ

This car is a 1975 Fiat 124 Coupe with a 5 Speed. The third generation of Fiat coupes of the 60s and early 70s. This little car had an engine upgrade from an 1800cc to a 2000cc or 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine. It runs and drives better than I ever thought possible. Fast, fun, nimble, agile. It is a total blast and I am surprised by how much I like driving it. Old cars can be a bit of a love hate affair and so far this one is all love. Here is what I love about the car.

#1. Everything works. The blinkers, the wipers, the gas gage, all the gages as a matter of fact, the headlights and brights! The best part is the horn. Full Italian twin bugle style. I honk it constantly. Just to wave at gawkers.

#2. The engine and mechanics. No smoke, no drips, no overheating, no drama. Good clutch and brakes. Matching Michelin tires too with lots of tread. Lots of power and vintage pipe sound for days..

#3. The look. I call this inexpensive exclusivity. Nobody has one of these cars anymore. They just do not exist in my town anyway. Portland is a town that prides itself in being different and nobody has one of these cars that I have seen. It is also very stock looking. Right down to the Italian Speedline wheels and tool kit.

Here is what I don’t love about the car.

#1 The Paint. It is a 10 footer. If you look close up you will see that the color is a bit faded and there are spots of touch up and overspray. But yes this also shows care.

#2 The Interior. Again, not horrible. But not fantastic either. The seam on the passenger cushion is coming apart and the seats are brighter than the door panels. The carpet looks good and the floor pans are solid.

#3 There are traces of rust here and there on the car. I would not call the car a rust bucket or anything and again the floors are solid, but when the car is repainted there will need to be some repairs made to put a stop to it.

That is about all I can tell you. I am happy to answer any and all questions you have as well. Please understand that this car is almost 40 years old. It is fun and cool and even economical, but it is not going to replace your Accord as your only mode of transport. I am setting the reserve very low and I know the Fiat will sell as long as we all play by the rules.

#1. Only bid if you have intentions to buy.

#2. Ask any and all questions before bidding.

#3. Please contact me BEFORE BIDDING if you have zero or negative feedback.

Just be real and genuine and I will make sure that the winning bidder is happy with his or her purchase. I have 100% positive feedback and I plan on keeping that. Also, I will end the sale for the right offer so don’t wait till the last second and worry about missing out. Just call me and we will work out a fair price. I’m Justin my Phone number is 503-969-5127. I am available most of the time and love to talk about the Fiat. Thanks again for looking and Happy Bidding!!

Last month, we featured a 1970 "BC" 124 Coupe that sold for $8,900. That car was in a bit better shape than this CC 124 Coupe, and benefitted by having a cleaner look without the heavier bumpers and fussier grille of this model. Still, this is a neat piece and I wouldn't be surprised if it brought between $5,000 to $7,000 to the right buyer.

-Paul

Lancia

1975 Lancia Fulvia Safari

January 17, 2013 Graham

The Lancia Fulvia was the car that began the legendary run of rallying victories for Lancia. A rather unassuming, front-drive coupe, this little beast was a formidable adversary on the World Rally circuit and won the 1972 Championship for the manufacturer. A number of different varieties of Fulvias were made over a thirteen year time span. The Safari was a limited edition of the Series 3 Fulvia that was sans bumpers and included special trim and badging. A model that was meant to evoke the competition Fulvias, it cut a menacing and purposeful look. This Fulvia for sale in Germany is one of 900 of that limited run of Safaris.

1975 Lancia Fulvia Safari

Lancia Fulvia Safari, model 1975, original 47,000 km and rust free everywhere, one of only 900 cars build, the cars have an output of 90hp.

Fulvias can still be had for relatively reasonable amounts of money, with well kept Series 3 models bringing in between $15,000 to $25,000 on average. Given this is a limited edition and a low mileage, original example, I'd suspect we might be somewhere around the $25,000 to $30,000 USD equivalent. Even if I couldn't have a Safari, it makes me want to own a Fulvia someday. I'd have the bumpers off, get a nice Heuer stopwatch for the dashboard and do my best impersonation of Sandro Munari on the weekend.

-Paul

Maserati

1975 Maserati Khamsin

December 24, 2012 Graham

The year 1975 marked the point at which Alejandro de Tomaso took over the reigns at Maserati from Citroën. The Khamsin, which means strong wind in Egyptian, was one of the last cars developed under Citroën control. Designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, this car featured a unique rear glass panel with floating tail lights, a styling touch that would show up on more mainstream cars in the near future. It also incorporated Citroën's DIRAVI variable assist power steering. This Khamsin for sale in Missouri is a US model that has had the desirable European bumper conversion, bringing back the sleek look the designed originally intended.

1975 Maserati Khamsin

1975 Maserati Khamsin. Finished in gorgeous black with red and black leather interior! 44,470 original miles. Restored. High cost European bumper conversion. One of 421 produced. One of 155 imported to the US. 4.9 liter V8, 315 horsepower. Automatic transmission. Meticulously maintained. Documented service and maintenance. Unmatched exclusivity. California car.

Maseratis from the 1970s represent a good way into exotic Italian iron for less money than a comparable Ferrari or Lamborghini from the era. Some may view the automatic transmission as a detriment, but for a grand touring machine, it's not completely out of place. The black on red color combination is stunning and an uncommon, timeless shade for a car from the 1970s. With so few built, this Khamsin offers exclusivity that is hard to match at prices ten times over what this car is on offer for.

-Paul

Fiat

1975 Fiat 124 Sport Coupe

October 17, 2012 Graham

We’re all familiar with the Fiat 124 Spider which had a long production run from 1966 through 1985. Lesser known was its hardtop sibling, the 124 Coupe. Styled by Mario Boano, who was also responsible the Lancia Aurelia, Volkswagen Karmann Ghia and the Ferrari 250GT “Boano.” A traditional three box design, this coupe started off with a front clip similar to the Spider, which eventually gave way to more squared off haunches at the outset of the 1970s. This final year 1975 Coupe for sale in Florida is a rare sight on the roads these days.

1975 Fiat 124 Sport Coupe

Here is a great opportunity to own the last year this body style was made. I installled an electrinic ignition works great, new tires, new battery and just installed a new water pump and only has original 48,000 miles, and for the last 27 years the car never seen snow or rain.

While it may have avoided snow, I’d be curious to know if this car really ever did avoid rain. This car is getting on close to 40 years and one would think it would have encountered the errant storm here or there. Besides that, the description from the seller is very sparse, leaving many questions for potential bidders. The car looks clean, but is there any rust lurking underneath? How many owners has the car had. Are there service records and does it have the original engine? If I was buying a 124 Coupe, I would hold off for one of the earlier AC or BC models, as I wasn’t a fan of the crash bumpers and front grille that frankly looks like an afterthought.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1975 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000

July 17, 2012 Graham 4 Comments

The 2000 was the final evolution of the famed GTV coupe. Introduced in 1971, the twin cam four cylinder engine produced 130 horsepower and came equipped with SPICA fuel injection in the US and Canada. This fuel injection system made a name for itself for being rather unreliable. Other markets were fortunate in that carburetors were the fuel delivery system of choice and with them came a higher horsepower figure of 150. This GTV 2000 is one of those carbureted cars, coming from Europe with a rare factory sunroof.

1975 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000

1975 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000 Euro. This is the very rare 1975 production year Euro Bertone designed GTV 2000, VIN # AR105300004710, with the Alfa factory Dellorto twin carbs, (NOT the troublesome U.S. Spica F.I.), finished in the rare European Champagne color with black vinyl interior; this color was not available to the U.S. market. The paint is mostly original, and near perfect, and is best described as "bronze," and all glass was taken out during a factory color respray. This rare GTV also has the rare manual sliding factory sunroof, not available to the U.S. Market.

These GTVs were not imported to the US market after 1974. European GTV’s are faster, handle and look better then the U.S. GTV 2000’s. They weigh about 145 lb’s lighter then the U.S. GTV versions. You can feel the difference at speed. This rare original unmolested GTV is owned by a career Military Officer and Classic car collector, who recently brought it back from Europe. It is rust free, with exception of two spots on the roof, which could be easily re-painted.

The interior is very good with original glass all around. The body is near perfect, with NO door dings (see photos) and all the gaps are true and straight, with no past accident damage. This GTV is totally original and unmolested! It has the original wheels, with GTV stainless steel caps, which have just been newly powder-coated. It drives beautifully, tight, no squeaks, and stiff suspension. It has a clear title and a matching numbers with the ORIGINAL engine, 143 K original Kilometers-NOT miles!

Attached pictures are included of the shock towers, front and rear floor pans-both sides, arches, all 4 jack points, and door jambs which show no rust. Gaps are straight and true, both doors open/close and lock easily, and the steering wheel is the original factory Alfa Romeo "Personal" wheel. The GTV has just been serviced (this week-8 July 2012) with new fluids, including oil filter, lubed, and a minor tune-up performed: four new platinum plugs and NEW plug wires were installed. It also has a brand new German Bosch 12 volt battery. Tires are all-matching German-made Uni-Royal Rallye 195/70 R 14’s with about 70% tread left. The rare factory sliding manual roof is easy and fast to use, with ease of operation!

The Radio is the Euro Phillips radio, but I have never used it, preferring the music of the 2 liter carbureted engine. An Alfa radio Plate should replace it. The original dash is perfect. The door handles work easily with no internal cracks (a common GTV curse that are expensive to replace). All lights work, horn, turn signals, brake lights, E. flasher, heater, fan, windshield wipers, dash gauges, and rear window heater all work properly. The engine is very good, no oil leaks, excellent compression, no smoke, very high oil pressure (see pictures of gauges at speed of 70 MPH), excellent clutch (no slippage), superior perfect 5 speed transmission with no slippage, grinding, or noise. or popping out of gear and 1st to 2nd is smooth!

All gauges work properly, and please note this model has the rare under dash factory installed Clock and factory installed Ammeter (see pics). Also note, since it is a "Euro GTV" it does NOT have the ugly side markers. Also please note that all gauges are Euro, and the speedometer is in Kilometers. This GTV is a wonderful original driver’s car. Superb, very Fast and sunny with the manual sliding sunroof, dependable, performance oriented, and "1 of a kind!" You will never find another.

As the seller, VERY regretfully, I am selling this very rare GTV due to my wife’s illness. I will request from buyer a "buy back option," at a later date, should buyer decide to resell this rare GTV in the future (if agreeable). There is probably no other original European GTV 2000 like this one available in the U.S.! I would like to own it again.

After reading the story of this car, I can't help but have a heavy heart. We all go through difficult times in our lives and I hope the seller's wife makes a speedy recovery. This sale also goes to show that certain cars have a lot of meaning, which is evidenced by the fact the owner seeks to buy it back someday if the new owner ever decides to sell it. These days, GTV 2000s average around $22,000 to $27,000. The best examples can reach into the $30,000 range, and you can find tired runners between $10,000 and $15,000. If I had to peg a value on this one, it would probably be right around $25,000, as the sunroof and European trim make this an especially desirable GTV.

-Paul

Lamborghini

1975 Lamborghini Espada 400GT

June 9, 2012 Graham

In the 1970s, even the most exotic of machinery was not exempt by the overarching ideas of federal lawmakers, as is witnessed by this Series III Lamborghini Espada. Debuting in 1972, the final iteration of Lamborghini’s grand touring coupe brought a redesigned interior and, in the case of this model year, the dreaded, larger impact bumpers. This particular Espada 400 GT is a California car and has the automatic transmission, which is a two speed Chrysler Torque Flite unit mated to the familiar 4.0 liter V12 with 350 horsepower.

1975 Lamborghini Espada 400GT

This 1975 Lamborghini Espada Series III is in White with Burgungdy. The Espada Series III was introduced in the 1972 Turin Auto Show. With a total production of 1217 cars made, this is the most successful model of the time. Some updates for the series III included a redisigned front grill, rear tail lights, power steering made standard along with air conditioning. This Lamborghini has a V12, independent susupension, four wheel disc brakes and an automatic transmission. The car has excellent paint, finished in it’s original color of White. The interior is original with correct steering wheel and appointments. This car has factory Campagnolo mag wheels and matching tires. This Lamborghini is a California car documented back to 1984. It was sold in ’84 to Glendale, California with 42,033 miles. The car last changed hands in 2006. The original manual and pouch, original spare, jack and tool bag will be presented to the new owner.

I’ve always been a big fan of the low slung look of the Espada and its curious details, such as the passenger footrest, top hinging rear windows and the massive shifter for the automatic transmission. This is a curious beast; one which deserves more respect than it currently garners. Subsequently, prices have stayed rather bargain basement as compared to other Lamborghinis. With this car’s provenance and mileage, $48,000 is a little bit high, but not by much. Good drivers start in the low $40,000 range these days, with excellent show Espadas commanding another $10,000 to $20,000 over that.

-Paul