Tag Archives: 75

1989 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde – REVISIT

June 27, 2014 Graham 1 Comment

The 1989 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde we featured back in February is back up for sale. As our friends our friends at BlythBros. can attest, owning one of these cars can provide the owner pleasure and pain. For the days these cars run right, however, they reward you with lots of pleasure. This car is quite presentable, harboring a few issues consistent with its age and easy enough for those handy with a wrench to tackle.

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1989 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde on eBay

The below post originally appeared on our site February 3, 2014:

Alfa Romeo often is likened to the heart and soul of the motor industry, producing cars that are sometimes less than rational as a consequence of the pursuit for sheer driving ecstasy. Even their more practical offerings have had an individualistic flair about them, witness this Milano Verde for sale in Vancouver, British Columbia. I was never too keen on these cars when they were new, but after visiting my local auto show, the sharp lines courtesy of Centro Stile Alfa Romeo are a refreshing break from the ho-hum styling of modern day sedans.

Year: 1989
Model: Milano Verde
Engine: 3.0 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 173,000 km (~ 107,497 mi)
Price: Reserve auction

This 1989 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde is a lifetime Vancouver BC car. Mileage is approximately 173,000 km. These cars have some well documented design features and quirks, so if you aren't already aware of the history of Milanos it is worth doing a quick read on Wikipedia. This is the top-spec Verde model, with 3.0 L V6, fantastic Recaro interior, body kit, unique instrument cluster, LSD, and ABS. Verdes were quite rare with estimates of fewer than 1,000 being sold in North America during their three year production.

In general the condition of the car is good. Paint shows a few small marks. The grey trim on the sides and spoiler is the weakest point on the exterior and would benefit from fresh paint. There is one rust hole in the rear passenger wheel well, visible in the passenger door jamb (common area). There are no other rust areas. The interior is decent with the exception of the bottoms of the front seats which show wear but no holes. The headliner is sagging. The wheels have some scuffs but are straight and bend-free. Tires are getting older but have decent tread. Glass is original and good. These issues noted, the car cleans up very well and turns heads at most car meets.

Mechanically the car is good to very good, with details listed below. As can be seen in the photos, the car has not been freshly detailed but photos represent its normal state, e.g. tidy but not spotless. This car has benefited from quite a bit of attention while under my care.

Maintenance in the last two years
- Transaxle mounts (3) replaced
- Rear calipers, rear wheel bearings, and brake flex lines replaced
- de Dion bushing (poly) replaced
- Watts linkage bushings (5) replaced
- Timing belt, tensioner, water pump, aux belts, and associated seals replaced
- Clutch master and slave cylinders replaced
- Steering rack replaced
- Caster bushings replaced
- Front roll bar end links replaced
- Air inlet box, inlet hose, and MAF restored
- Floor mats replaced
- Oil pressure sender replaced

Other good stuff
- The Alfa 'Busso' has been described as one of the best sounding motors ever built. It is glorious.
- Set of 5 @ 15x7 Fondmetal basketweave alloy wheels with centercaps included with sale
- Aftermarket headers installed (brand unknown)
- OEM first aid kit included
- Box of random small spares included

Quirks (besides the well documented ones from the factory)
- ARC panel has blinky lights for brakes, oil level, brake lights and side-marker lights (but all reported functions do actually work correctly)
- Intermittent wiper setting works intermittently
- Shifting between 1st and 2nd needs a slight pause
- Limited range on the sun-roof due to the sagging headliner (works properly otherwise)

Issues
- Front passenger side window motor/regulator doesn't work reliably
- ABS warning light won't go out, and in the past pedal feel changes after a drive longer than one hour. I've had this checked at two mechanics and they haven't found a fault. Brakes work fine and the warning light could be due to a failed ABS sensor (which is no longer available). A spare ABS pump/accumulator, reported to be working, is included with the sale should buyer wish to troubleshoot further.
- Two small oil leaks present under the motor, generally only occur if the car is parked on a slope.

If you are reading this add from the USA, price is in CAN$, and the car is 25 years old so per previous experience import to the US is easy. Information is available on your government websites.

A lot of the major mechanical points have been addressed on this car. There are a few remaining issues, but nothing too catastrophic as to deter those handy with a wrench or friendly with a good mechanic. Those who have driven these sedans know what a great drive they are. With a throaty V6 and rear-mounted gearbox, it allows this car to stand out with performance rarely seen at this price point. These are cars that are certainly worth preserving, as they are the last Alfas designed before the Fiat takeover and the last rear-drive sedans from the company to this day.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1989 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

March 25, 2014 Graham 1 Comment

Our friends over at BlythBros. have been chronicling the rebuild of an Alfa Romeo Milano, a rarely seen but rewarding drive of a sport sedan offered to US customers in the 1980s. Known as the 75 across the Atlantic, these were great drivers cars, as those that arrived stateside came equipped with a V6 engine hooked up to a rear mounted transaxle for optimum weight distribution. This 1989 Milano Verde for sale in New York represents the final year the Milano came to the US.

Year: 1989
Model: Milano Verde
Engine: 3.0 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 144,220 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1989 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

The last year for the Milano. This car is in flawless mechanical condition despite the high mileage. The body is Straight and there is no need for paintwork. Runs and drives like new. No issues with synchromesh or the clutch. Jack points are solid. No significant rust. Everything works.

Koni Yellow Shocks
New Clutch Master and Slave Cyl. with Hose.
Goodyear Eagle GT 195-55-15 on straight original Wheels LIKE NEW
New Headliner
Cold A/C
Good Heat
Rebuilt rear calipers
Stebro Exhaust

Ready to go anywhere as it sits. Maintained by Alfa Specialists of Alfa Auto Clinic. Vehicle may be inspected on a lift and test driven by appointment. Just call 516-623-0199 and ask for Guiseppe or Barry.

These 1980s Alfas are not the simplest vehicles to maintain, but if you're handy with a wrench and have the time to invest or know a good specialist and are willing to invest the money, they can be a unique practical classic, for those needing a bit more space than a sports car. Those considering a Milano in good condition can expect to pay in the range of $4,500 to $7,000 these days, representing a lot of Italian flair for not much cash.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

February 16, 2014 Graham 3 Comments

After featuring an Alfa Romeo Milano Verde earlier in the month, it got me thinking. Will we ever see a midsize sedan so blatantly focused on performance over practicality ever again? Even the current Alfa Romeo lineup pales in comparison to the excitement offered a few decades back. So, why wait? Go out and grab a Milano Verde like this well sorted example for sale in North Carolina with 75k miles on its original engine.

Year: 1987
Model: Milano Verde
Engine: 3.0 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 133,750 mi
Price: $7,500 Buy It Now

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

I bought this car 5 years ago because it was identical to one I had 25 years ago, the best family sedan I've ever owned. The original owner installed many sensible performance mods: Pandora computer box, sport springs & tuned suspension that make it a joy to drive. Extras include Momo steering wheel, K&N filter, Zender wheels, tinted windows, carbon fiber shifter knob, custom exhaust with a mellow bellow to kill for, awesome stereo. There are 133k miles on the chassis, 75K on motor - the original owner installed a 3.5 L motor and ran it like that for ~60k miles, then re-installed the original motor. Nearly new Yokohama S 205/50-15 tires.

The car is kept in a heated garage and driven vigorously every couple of weeks, as every Alfa should be. I wouldn't hesitate to drive it across the country. I now regretfully need to pare down the Alfa stable to make room for a new acquisition. If you're looking for a great Verde to drive or just admire, you'll be hard put to find a better one for the money.

These Alfa Romeo Milanos are cars certainly worth saving. Sure, like all Alfas they take a bit of fettling at times to get right, as our friends over at BlythBros. have chronicled. However, get them sorted, and what a rewarding drive they are. They offer a level of involvement and tactile pleasure that seems impossible to replicate these days.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Gold

August 30, 2013 Graham 2 Comments

Alfa Romeos from the 1980s are one of the cheapest ways into Italian car ownership these days. Just because they are cheap doesn’t mean they are lacking on thrills, of course. Made even more famous - or infamous depending on how you look at it - the Alfa Romeo 75, known here as the Milano, offered wedge styling, a lusty V6 and rear mounted gearbox for excellent handling dynamics. Few of these are hanging around in good condition these days, but eventually you’ll stumble across a good one like this 1987 Milano Gold for sale in California.

Year: 1987
Model: Milano Gold
Engine: 2.5 liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 116,961 mi
Price: Reserve auction

CLICK FOR DETAILS:1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Gold

Excellent running and looking 1987 Milano Gold. The detachable face CD and radio work. The seats are great. The things that are wrong with are shown in the pictures, mainly small aesthetics like the rubber around the doors, paint on edges slightly worn, the inside door handles are both broken at the top on both the driver and side and passenger side. The lights come on when you open the door but I believe the other interior lights work but I think it’s the bulbs.

We’ve seen a few good Milanos here at CICFS that have reached towards the $10,000 mark. There’s a few non-stock items on this, mileage is on the low side for the year but overall, it’s a pretty straight example of Alfa’s last rear-drive sedan sold in the US market. The only thing I might address is the rear suspension height. US bound Milanos had their suspension raised to meet federal regulations. Euro market 75s had a lower rear ride height, specs which some Milano owners have switched to. I’d suspect a reasonable ask for a car of this caliber would be around the $4,000 to $6,000 mark.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1988 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

February 9, 2013 Graham 5 Comments

They always say you aren't a true petrol head until you own an Alfa Romeo. I certainly have had the itch to buy one for quite some time and this 1988 Milano is exactly the kind of car I'd want to buy. Sadly I'm not in the market at the moment and this car, being in Washington, is on the wrong coast for me. But I still am admiring it from afar, right down to the gorgeous Benzoni wheels.

1988 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

Greetings Alfisti. My name is Shannon Low from Seattle's NW Alfa Club and I have been "stung" by the Fiat Abarth's tail, which has left a lasting desire in my head to own one very soon. I have owned 5 Alfas now as well as 5 Lancias, I am currently restoring a 77 Lancia Scorpion to euro Montecarlo specs. I used to work at the local Alfa dealership here in Bellevue from 97-99 and would describe myself as a very detail obsessed owner.

So enough of my backround and to my point. I am offering up my 1988 Milano Verde that I purchased almost 4 years ago. This car was built Jan 1988 and was sold new from Valley Imports in Bakersfield, CA in July 1988. The second owner purchased the car in January 1991 from Beach Imports in Newport Beach, CA. He then moved to WA in 1991. I will say that both the previous owner and myself are the "overly sympathetic" car owner types who have cared for this car as if it was a child. I have no qualms in saying that I feel this particular Milano is one of the finest examples you will find for sale anywhere.
I am pricing the car at $11,000. The car has a clean WA title and just passed WA state emissions in Nov (the same standards as CA) Everything works on this car including the cruise, pwr antenna, and A/C. I have practically EVERY service and parts receipt from when the car was new, organised in two binders. The car has only been serviced by Alfa Romeo specialists. Factory parts have been utilized whenever available. The car retains its original owners books w/ portfolio, factory sales brochure, complete factory tool kit, quick reference guide, factory repair manual, spare keys. Many extra parts included. Feel free to e-mail me directly to ask questions: shannonl@parkplaceltd.com or call me to chat in person 206-715-9670

1988 Milano 3.0 Summery

Current Mileage displayed 136k (Odo was replaced under factory warr at 21k in 91 however, due to a squeaking noise) -I have the documentation.
Mileage when I purchased was displayed 98k in April 2009

Items performed during my ownership:
A/C system leak repaired and recharged w/ original R12 Freon
New Koni Yellow adjustable shocks
New red rear lowering springs
New cross-drilled brake rotors and pads
Stainless brake lines
New battery and alternator
New Hi-Flo cat and exhaust center resonator w/Magnaflow rear muffler (great sound, not too loud)
New bronze windshield w/ new seal
New O2 sensor
New front lower ball joints
New door handle gaskets
Euro front grill (I have original)
Factory optional OZ Racing 3-piece wheels w/ Yokohama tires
OE Benzoni phone dial wheels all re-finished and have Continental Winter Contact tires fitted
Front seats recovered in factory Monza cloth-Recaro embroidered in red now
Blower motor bearing replaced and screen fitted to prevent leaves from entering chamber
Piaa Extreme white bulbs fitted to factory headlamps-for much improved light output
Momo steering wheel and shift knob -originals available
Custom floor mats
Silver tech fabric all weather fitted car cover
JVC CD player/Sirius sat radio installed/i-pod-USB (I have original Clarion Alfa am/fm cassette as well)
All speakers replaced w/ quality new ones in factory locations-looks stock
Redline gearbox fluid
New driveline donuts and center support
-Other maintenance performed includes normal wear and tear items replaced as needed and servicing as needed. Timing belt/valve adjust are coming up on being due (I can get a discount on this service and parts)
Some rock chips to hood edge and front valance as well as front side of rear fender flairs.
(These can be airbrushed professionally for around $500)

Other major items worth mentioning from previous owner.
-Upper end rebuild at 96.8k miles in 11/04 by Ferrari of Seattle
-Clutch, ABS accumulator, and radiator replaced at 84.6k miles in 10/01

This has to be absolutely the best Milano that I have seen stateside. Not just in condition, but in looks, as the color and wheels set off the sharp lines perfectly and this one also has the rear lowering springs of non-US market cars. I honestly think this is one of those few times that I would pay full price of $11,000, just to have the best of the best. It seems the seller has a few offers already, but the car still is technically on offer. I'm guessing this one won't last.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

January 4, 2013 Graham 2 Comments

As I was walking back to my apartment on Christmas Eve, I stumbled upon an Alfa Romeo Milano parked on the street, looking rather lonely in the freezing rain. It was a very mint example and had me thinking that maybe these cars weren't as troublesome as first thought if they are hanging around on urban streets. One of our readers had been in search of a good, clean Milano lately and as a result, these cars have been on my mind. Here is another Milano that has come up for sale outside of Washington, DC. This car needs a bit of love and attention, but is honest and complete.

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde, Second owner, purchased car in 1995. This was a Daily Driver for nearly 17 years, until I purchase new Dodge Dart. Car was well maintained with many upgrades along the way.

Hereiare its issues.Engine and Transmission had been rebuilt approx 6 years ago, but need attention. Needs head gasket, still runs great, but evidence of oil getting into cooling system and oil leaking out of gasket onto exhaust manifold. Heads were replaced with IAP rebuilt units approx 8 years ago with S cams, but really, the engine is due for a complete overhaul. Gear lever rattles in 4th, 5th gear, probably not linkage. Clutch, while still has great grip, is getting a little stiff. Rear Wheel arches were replaced 10 years ago, and while being a very amatuer job, are still sound with no rust evident. Could use cosmetic attention on quarter panel where bondo is hiding the seams.The spare wheel well has some major rust issues that will need to be addressed. The tow hook is barely hanging on, but is still there ! The front driver jack point was bent by a tire shop, the others are fine. The car has never been in an accident, other than a Jag XJ6 backing into me while at a car lot. The mounting point to the bumper is slightly bent. Power steering hoses leak also.

Car comes with a set of Panasport Wheels, and 2 steel rims, and two factory mags, which can be seen in the pictures. It also comes with a spare front Bumper in awsome condition along with hoses and fittings for washer hoses. Entire Exhuast system replaced 2 years ago. Set of Koni Sport shocks all around, with Vented Rotors up front. Front Recaro grey inserts installed a few years back, see pictures. Personal brand steering wheel in awesome shape. Bottom Line, car could use a lot of work, but is a real Milano Verde. Has been a faithful daily driver for its entire life. Great Project Car, basis for a vintage racer, or keep feeding it money and is an awsome daily driver. Still a blast to drive! Price: $5,000 obo.

For the intrepid Alfa enthusiast, this would be a good buy, but the asking price of $5,000 is a bit dear for a car that needs this kind of mechanical and cosmetic work. As is, this car might be worth somewhere around $3,500 to $4,000. At that level, you could carry out the necessary fixes without making it too nice for daily use.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Gold

December 17, 2012 Graham

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

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano Gold

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

-Paul

Alfa Romeo

1989 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

December 9, 2012 Graham 5 Comments

Hot on the heels of the 1988 Milano Verde we featured on Friday, here is a stunning example of Alfa's chiseled sport sedan for sale in Georgia. This Milano has had one owner over the last 20 years and comes with a stack of records.

1989 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

Excellent Original 1989 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde 3.0, 85,000 Orig. Miles

·Same Owner since 1992
·Excellent example in very good original condition
·Good to Very Good Black Exterior
·Immaculate Original Recaro Interior (headliner professionally replaced)
·Upgraded Polk Audio and Alpine Speaker System
·Concord Deck w/power amp
·Very Good AC
·Cruise Control
·Bridgestone Potenza SP-03 Pole Position Tires – Only 4000 Miles
·Ansa Exhaust
·PIAA fog lights (original lamps included)
·Acrylic Headlight Covers
·K&N Air Filter
·All records since 1992

Extras Include:
·Wolf Front Bra – Excellent Condition
·Original Trunk Storage Boxes
·Original Four Piece Fitted Alfa Romeo Luggage
·Original Owner’s Manual Package including: manual, maintenance log, road atlas, note pad, mileage/expense log, dealer listing, tire warrantee, etc.
·All original tools in cases including complete tool kit box with included gloves.
·Black cloth “Seat Saver” covers for Recaros
·Full factory maintenance manual
·Touch Up Paint

This is a great looking example of the last of the rear-drive Alfa sedans. Anything over $10,000 for a Milano these days is is a bit dear, but this particular car has certainly been cared for by one fastidious owner. I'd wager a guess that $7,000 to $9,000 is a bit more of a realistic price range for this example. But if I was going to buy a Milano, this final year example would be right at the top of my shopping list.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1988 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

December 7, 2012 Graham 2 Comments

Like the 1985 GTV6 we featured this past Wednesday, the Alfa Romeo Milano is a popular car for those seeking cheap Italian thrills. This was the last Alfa Romeo sedan to feature rear-wheel drive and with its rear mounted gearbox, this car is a treat in the bends. This Milano Verde for sale outside of Philadelphia has had a slew of maintenance items addressed and is in fairly good cosmetic condition for its age and mileage.

1988 Alfa Romeo Milano Verde

The time has come to sell my '88 Milano Verde. I've had it for nearly two years now and have put a lot of time and money in it and it's time to move on. I've attached some pictures below. The car has around 169,000 miles on it and I purchased it with 163,XXX on it. During my ownership I have done the following:

New timing belt, tensioner, power steering belt, AC belt, cam seals, cam cover gaskets, spark plug gaskets, oil pressure sender, and refreshed the fuel rail (new hoses) at 164,879 miles. New turn signal stalk (the place I got it inspected at thought you turned on the high beams by slamming the switch forward like newer cars and broke it...)

New ball joints (upper and lower) on both sides
New battery
Redid headliner
New clutch slave and hose (replaced with braided hose)
Replaced dashboard with one that doesn't have any cracks or issues (also cleaned out heater box and freshened that up with some pieces from a parts car)
New clutch, rear brake calipers, rear brake pads, watts link bushing, and trailing arm bushings at 167,xxx miles
Put on a Euro grill (can include original one if interested)

The AC does work fine
Sunroof doesn't leak or have any issues opening or closing
All window regulators work swimmingly (replaced passenger front a couple months ago)
Doors all lock properly
Has euro downpipes
Euro headlights
164 LS wheels
No flashing lights on the ARC
ABS light is currently on, but it should just be the passenger sensor that needs replacing (hub fell and stressed wire when replacing the ball joints - will diagnose and fix if I can find time to get to it) The pump runs fine and the ABS system worked flawlessly before replacing the ball joint, so something must have gotten out of whack during that
The windows are tinted to keep the interior cooler
Recaro seats are in pretty good shape (see photos)

Feel free to ask any questions below or PM me. I'm asking $4750, but am open to offers. The car is located in West Chester, PA (about 45 minutes south east of Philadelphia - near the Delaware/PA border).

An Alfa like this with over 150,000 miles could be cause for concern, but looking at the photos and reading over what has been done leads me to believe this car is more solid than most. The asking price is at the bottom end of what Milanos are fetching these days and it's always encouraging to see a seller willing to negotiate. If you could get this car for somewhere around $4,000 to $4,500, it would be well bought.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano 2.5

September 29, 2012 Graham

The Milanos are coming out of the woodwork this week here at CICFS. Yet another mint example has cropped up. This particular car for sale in California has the smaller 2.5 V6 and represents the first model year that this Alfa Romeo brought this sedan to US shores.

1987 Alfa Romeo Milano 2.5

Offered for an appreciating new owner is this rare classic ONE-OWNER 1987 Alfa Romeo Milano 2.5! Finished in what appears to be all original black paint over grey cloth interior, this RUST-FREE classic Alfa sedan was purchased new 25 years ago right here in San Francisco and has been driven a mere 90,000 since. This is a great find for the Alfa enthusiast sporting the great-running 2.5 liter V6 engine mated to a 5 speed manual transmission, cold air conditioning, electric windows, original alloy wheels with Pirelli tires.

THE BODY AND TRIM
The body and trim of this 1987 Alfa are in VERY GOOD TO EXCELLENT CONDITION OVERALL! I would rate the 99.99% PERFECTLY RUST-FREE exterior finish of this car a solid "8" on a scale of 1-10. The black paint has a deep lustrous finish, all the trim is intact and original, the original alloy wheels are in excellent condition with deep tread on the Pirelli tires. Inside the engine bay is in excellent original condition as is the rear boot with original tool kit and factory jack and pouch.

THE INTERIOR
The interior of this little classic Alfa is in EXCELLENT ORIGINAL CONDITION overall. The grey cloth seats are in superb condition as are the crack-free dash, original carpets and doorpanels.The headliner shows some sagging, the stereo is awol, the a/c blows ice cold and ALL of the gauges, lights and blinkers work as they should.

THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE
This Milano starts, runs and drives VERY WELL! The engine is smooth and fairly powerful with a nice exhaust growl from the free revving V6 engine. The transmission shifts well and the steering is very tight and responsive. The braking is strong and straight and the suspension feels very good with no clunks or rattles. With its lively chassis and low curb weight [2,900 pounds] this Alfa is super satisfying to drive with gobs of that Italian "verve"! Note: there is some definite rear differential whine.

At just a shade under $6,000, this is a pretty good value as far as mint Milanos come. Of course, there are always strings attached and in this case, it would be the differential whine. The cause is most likely a worn thrust washer, which will involve disassembly of the gearbox. Not a job for the novice, then. Provided that job is all that needs sorting, it would prove well worth someone's time and effort to snap this Milano up, as these represent the end of an era in rear-drive Alfa Romeo sedan history.

-Paul