Tag Archives: Pininfarina

Lancia

1950 Lancia Aurelia B50 Cabriolet

Lancia could be likened to Italy's answer to Citroën. They were a company that introduced a series of firsts in terms of automotive technology and always marched to the beat of a different drum. Only five years after the end of World War II, the Aurelia was released. This was a remarkably advanced vehicle that included the first production V6 engine, an innovative rear mounted transaxle with inboard brakes and radial tires. Today, these are extremely rare cars that are under appreciated for not only their pioneering technical merits but racing heritage. This example for sale outside of Philadelphia is an older restoration but is in good cosmetic and mechanical condition.

1950 Lancia Aurelia B50 Cabriolet

One of approximately 265 cars originally built and one of only a handful still known to exist in its original Pinninfarina alloy body work. No two cars were finished exactly the same and all were built to order. Finished in a dark blue over terracotta colored interior with gray carpets and beige top. The car is matching numbers according to the previous owner who purchased the car in 2005 from Auto Classic in Turin, Italy. Prior, the car was owned by the same family for over 20 years. During that ownership it was restored, then sold as part of the estate in 2004/2005. This car is an example of an older restoration (approximately 18-20 years old) and was completed to a very high standard. While the car currently lacks appropriate documentation as to its owner/restoration history (we are currently researching this further) it is evident through thorough inspection that the car is very correct and has been well cared for.

The car is currently up to date with new brakes, clutch, and transmission input shaft seal. Cosmetically this car has seen a complete restoration, and has aged nicely to that of a 2- driver. The body is 100% straight and corrosion free with those imperfections one would assume in a 20 year old paint job. There are a few blemishes here and there, but nothing of major concern. The chrome is all there with proper stampings and has recently been replated. All chrome inserts, emblems and original badges and bits are present. The body is straight with excellent hood, door, and trunk gaps. The wheel covers are in nice shape as well. The top appears to also be the same vintage as the restoration but is in no need of attention either, it's excellent. All windows appear to be original and crack/fade free. The rubber molding is showing its age in spots and could use replacing if deemed necessary but ultimately can still be enjoyed the way it is. The interior cosmetics are consistent with the exterior; they show moderate use but are in excellent condition with plush leather both front and rear with exceptional fit and finish throughout. Dash is complete including the original Condor radio; everything is in excellent condition with very nice patina. The interior includes many original pieces including an ashtray behind the front bench. Door jams are free of any paint chipping or related blemishes, door open/close is flawless. All interior bits work appropriately, all gauges work, windows go up and down etc... The trunk is clean and consistent with the rest of the car. Again, no rust or issues in the trunk.

Mechanically this car is completely up to date with new clutch, brakes, and seals where needed, as well as a complete tune up to run very well. It is believed that this examples Aurelia V6 (B10 series with 56 HP) did receive a complete rebuild at time of restoration, as evident by its superb running condition. The undercarriage shows no issues and is very straight and correct. Overall everything is in excellent order, appears to be up to date with nothing out of place, very nice floors and chassis rails with no issues. The car runs, drives, shifts and stops without any issues; all lights are in working order. Tires are still very usable and are free of any major rot. Overall this is a very rare opportunity to own a 1950 Lancia B50 Cabriolet in excellent driver quality condition. A comprehensive detail has been completed inside and out and underneath to ensure a turnkey opportunity for any collector. Included in the sale is an original color sales brochure and top cover.

While not a concours example, I always appreciate cars from this era that appear to have been used and enjoyed, rather than being locked away in a museum or collection. The asking price precludes most normal collectors from enjoying this classic, but it's nice to see such a complete example of a forward thinking vehicle on these shores.

-Paul

Ferrari

1972 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS

The Dino was a turning point in the history of Ferrari. Named after Enzo Ferrari's late son Alfredo (whose nickname was Alfredino), this nameplate was meant to brand a whole new variety of Ferraris, namely those without 12 cylinder engines. The 246 nameplate in this case represents the engine capacity and number of cylinders, in this case a 2.4 liter V6. Creating 175 horsepower in US trim, this engine would also see service in the Fiat Dino and Lancia Stratos. The Dino was Ferrari's best selling model up until this point and are highly sought after by collectors. This car represents the first year the Dino was available with a removable roof and while not a perfect example, has potential.

1972 Ferrari Dino GTS

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First a little history. This US spec car was manufactured in June of 1972 and first registered in late December of that year. The odometer show 48229 miles and that is accurate. It has been under the same ownership since 1975 (second owner) and is now being offered for sale by the family trust. It has the original “Pink slip” and retains the original blue plates, last being registered in California in 2005. When purchased the car was yellow and the owner had an extensive color change performed in the late 70’s. The car was maintained well, used sparingly but regularly until it was put into storage 5 years ago. It was garaged and only used in good weather never having the top fitted. It is in decent running condition but does need some work and it has some details that are not correct.

Now the good points. It is a California car that does not appear to have any rust or rust repairs. The body is generally in very good condition and shows no signs of having been in a significant collision. The paint is no longer perfect but at first glance it looks stunning. The doors both open easily and close with sweet light click. The gaps and panel fit are very good all over. Glass is in very good shape, no scratches or chips; all the chrome has a deep luster. The electric windows function well. The interior is clean and looks mostly original although the seats may have been re-upholstered. The grey carpet is in good order and overall there is not a lot of sun damage showing the car was not left outside.

The car starts, runs and drives well the clutch being light and the gears shifting nicely, even when cold. The engine does not knock or have any other unwanted noises. It also does not smoke excessively and indicates 85lbs on the oil pressure gauge at 5000 rpm hot. There does not seem to be any overheating issues, although it has only been driven sparingly and local since coming out of storage. On the road the engine sounds great, having decent power and dropping to a fairly low idle once warm. The gauges all function with the fuel gauge being a bit intermittent may have a sticking sender unit. The brakes pull the car up straight without any fuss and there is no unwanted noise from the suspension. The hand brake holds firmly and is adjusted correctly. The steering feels light and precise; I think one of the nicer points of these cars.

Now the negatives, The paint has been spot repaired in places, the two most obvious being an area about the size of a dinner plate on the top of the right front fender that was caused from a bicycle falling on it. The second area is a round patch the size of tennis ball on the bonnet. There is evidence of minor accident damage on the left front fender extending back onto the door. There is an area in the wheel well where the tire has just kissed the fiberglass panel and rubbed the paint off – see pictures. There are a number of small chips and imperfections some that have been touched up and some not. The front shows some larger nicks, I think evident in the pictures and under the front there are a couple of dents under the bumpers and the lower panel has been damaged from parking mishaps. There is a small indentation in the top of the driver’s door that could probably be taken out by a good dent removal guy.

The interior door panels are a little tired and the door shut panels have been chrome plated, not left body colour as stock. The interior mirror is misty and the quarter lights (windings) are missing their catches. The heater fan switch is missing its plastic pad and the choke lever (never used) appears to be stuck. The AC fans operate but do not produce cold air and the heater is unresponsive. The wipers, washers and indicators do not function, possibly a fuse?

The engine burbles badly on de-acceleration possibly due to some missing emission equipment, diverter valve, ignition retard unit. It also does not have its carbon canister. It does have the air cleaner assembly, although not fitted in the pictures. There is also the odd spitting from the carbs at and just above, idle, obviously after sitting so long it needs a good tune-up. The engine does not have a bad misfire. It has had a non-standard fuse box fitted to the rear bulkhead along with some new insulation. The engine compression was checked and number 2 cylinder has a lower compression than the others and on further inspection, doing a leak down test it appears that the exhaust valve on that cylinder is not seating properly. It could settle down with driving more or of course it could get worse! First gear synchro is a little unforgiving unless you are going very slowly, but all the other gears including second (a common problem) are excellent. There are some oil leaks, causing a little smoke at a stop as it contacts the exhaust. Obviously after sitting as long as it has I would recommend replacing the fuel and cooling system hoses and some of the rubber mounts and bushings are reaching the end of their life. The steering rack shows some wear, a common problem I am told. The solid state fuel pump needs to be mounted better and the hoses secured.

So that is the full story on this car, not perfect but still a beautiful head turning classic Ferrari that will continue to appreciate. It is a very honest car with a known history, quite a local celebrity in fact.

Dinos in average condition tend to run anywhere in the $125,000 to $150,000 range. Mint, concours examples will reach closer to the $200,000 mark. The seller seems a bit optimistic, given bidding has reached $145,000 without the reserve being met. There are a number of odds and ends that need attention here. If one could procure this Dino at around $100,000 to $115,000, it would be a good buy for the enthusiast looking to tackle a bit of light restoration work and, once it is over, have a classic Ferrari that one wouldn't be afraid to use.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1992 Alfa Romeo 164L

Another week passes by, and yet another mint Alfa Romeo 164 pops up for sale. This example is a 1992 model with a scant 51,000 miles on it. It has had a comprehensive list of items attended to, but could benefit from an air conditioning service, new front fog lamp and possible attention to the power steering system.

1992 Alfa Romeo 164L

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PLEASE NOTE! THE ACCIDENT REPORTED ON THE VEHICLE HISTORY DID NOT INVOLVE THE ALFA. On the date listed for the accident I used the plate from the Alfa to transport a Volvo I bought for my teenage son back to my home from a location five minutes away and it, the Volvo, not the Alfa, was involved in a 5mph accident. I will be happy to furnish a copy of the police report to any seriously interested party.

1992 Alfa Romeo 164L 4 door sport sedan. Metallic dark green with tan leather. The Alfa 164 is a handsome, Pininfarina designed sedan selected by Hemmings Sports and Exotics Magazine as one of the ten most collectible cars of the the nineties. With a powerful (190 hp) free-revving V-6 engine and five speed manual gearbox this Alfa offers spirited performance, excellent handling, and a ride befitting the sport/luxury car segment it was designed to compete in. This rust free example has spent the majority of its life as a summer car on Cape Cod. It has been carefully maintained with all service records since new, including over $5,000.00 in receipts spent to freshen all mechanicals when the car was put back into regular service some two years ago. At that time the engine was removed, the engine bay detailed, an upgrade to mechanical tensioner completed, a new clutch installed, flywheel resurfaced, all new seals, gaskets, hoses, belts, water and fuel pump replaced, valve clearances checked and adjusted, new cap and rotor, new platinum tipped plugs, all new filters, new brake pads and rotors, coolant and brake fluid flushed and refreshed, new rear exhaust, four new Eagle GT H rated tires with four wheel alignment.

I'm sure I'm forgetting some items, but suffice it to say that anything that needed doing was done, save the air conditioning system. As I live in a temperate climate I did not attend to it since I prefer my summer motoring with the sunroof and windows open, listening to the Alfa's stirring exhaust note. The ac may simply require a recharge, or it may have a failed compressor, condenser, etc., all of which are readily available from the various Alfa parts suppliers. I have driven the car some nine thousand miles since the work was completed and it drives as it should, powerful, fast, shifts perfectly, a real pleasure for those who appreciate the unique driving experience an Alfa provides.

The finish of the car as one can see from the pictures is glossy and in good condition for a twenty year old car. There is zero rust, but the paint is not perfect. There are a few spots( dime to quarter sized) on the hood and trunk where the clear coat has been mildly discolored, and there are some minor blemishes here and there on the sides, but none of this is noticeable enough to show up in photos. The interior is in excellent condition, the leather supple and without tears or stains. There is one seam in the driver seat cushion that has begun to separate (about a two to three inch gap). This is not a tear, just the stitching come undone, and should be easy to repair. There is also a crack in the driver side fog lamp lens. The light works perfectly and as replacement requires an entire new fog lamp, (these are not currently available), I have been forced to live with it. The only other issue to be reported is that when I brought the car out of storage last week I noticed several drops of power steering fluid on the garage floor. Since the car was refreshed there has been no leakage anywhere under the car, but I did notice these small spots and feel it is only fair to mention them. The power steering reservoir is full, the steering works properly and I don't think the leak represents a serious issue or warrants immediate attention. It may be a result of the car not being driven for several months and perhaps will resolve itself with use.

In summation, this is a well-sorted, low mileage example of what is predicted to be a highly collectible automobile. I have both remote key fobs that operate central locking and alarm as you would find on more modern cars. The original window sticker ($32,495.00) and manuals as well as a complete service manual on cd are included. This luxury edition Alfa 164L (hence the L designation) can provide long service as an enjoyable daily driver, (if you watch e-bay you will see many examples of this model with 150-200k miles on them) and then if collecting is your interest you can choose to restore it in years to come to show condition. I will be happy to accommodate an inspection of the vehicle prior to the close of the auction, but once the auction closes I expect no tire kicking or negotiating over condition issues. Bear in mind when you compare value that this car is not the typical worn out, high mileage beater that will cost you three times the bargain price you think you're getting in the first six months of ownership.

I am selling to make room for the restoration of a 1974 Alfa GTV that I have recently purchased, and while the reserve is substantially less than what I have invested in the car please don't waste your time or mine with unreasonable offers. This is not a distressed sale. The car is sold as is/where is with no warranty expressed or implied. I will be happy to assist you in having the car shipped at your expense. Please do not bid if you are not prepared to go forward with the purchase. Bidders with less than five positive feedbacks please contact me before bidding.

It's heartening to know that this Alfa is being offered for sale to make way for another vintage Alfa. One can rest easy then knowing they are buying this car from someone familiar with the marque. Overall, with a few minor fixes, this would be a fantastic, usable modern classic for someone not interested in mainstream luxury. While walking down the street this weekend, a 164L rounded a corner and I was reminded how sweet sounding these cars are. Well worth the price of admission, if you ask me.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1983 Ferrari 400i

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Having never been sold in the United States, the Ferrari 400i is a bit of a rare sight on these roads. A few made their way across the Atlantic, but in the era of the Testarossa and 308/328, these touring coupes were a bit outshone by their stablemates. They were also derided in the motoring press at times, with Jeremy Clarkson noting that it was "awful in every way." The fact that the 400i was sandwiched in Ferrari history between some great 2+2 touring coupes and the attractive, more powerful 456GT of the 1990s didn't help its cause, either. While many of these coupes had the GM sourced 3 speed automatic, this particular 400i for sale has the desirable 5-speed manual transmission.

1983 Ferrari 400i

Electrically adjustable mirrors, tinted glass, electric front windows, rear window defroster. Very beautiful and original Ferrari 400i! A manual version with a 315-hp V12. Perfect power and shifting. Equipped with a very nice beige leather interior. This is certainly one of the better examples!

This is the car that time forgot, and even 23 years since the last 412 was manufactured (the 400i's successor), collectors still have not warmed up to these cars. This fact is reflected in values, as average examples change hands in the $20,000 to $40,000 range on a regular basis. This example is on the high side, at close to $50,000. The manual gearbox and sublime color no doubt makes this car more attractive, but it seems to be a tad bit overvalued, given the mileage of 60,000. That's not particular high for an almost 30 year old car, but it is high for most Ferraris.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1994 Alfa Romeo 164LS

Following on to the Alfa Romeo 164L for sale by our reader Robert, here is a later model example of the luxury version of the 164. This is another well maintained example, having lived most of its life in California and has benefitted from a significant amount of maintenance and repairs in the last six months. The 1994 and 1995 versions of the 164 had a horsepower increase over earlier 164s, as they switched to a V6 with 24 valves; double that of the old engine. This provided a bump from 183 horsepower to 210 (or 230 horsepower in the S version).

1994 Alfa Romeo 164LS

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1994 Alfa Romeo 164 LS Automatic Transmission. 101,059 Mileage, no accidents, California car until 2009-2010 or somewhere around that time, Autocheck to reference. Located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota

Over $2,000 invested in maintenance and upkeep done on this car within the last 6 months through a reputable mechanic. Engine is in excellent running condition with no oil burning, smoking, knocking, or any other Alfa Romeo related issues. Engine pulls strongly through its full revolution range and the transmission is an excellent compliment to the power plant going through its auto/sport/winter mode perfectly. The sport mode, in particular, transforms this car from being a cruiser to throaty road ripper. Auto mode, which I usually use, is most appropriate for daily driving providing an excellent balance between drivability and fuel economy.

This car is an excellent car needing nothing but an owner. It is best to buy a car where everything works mechanically and electrically from the start, and has documentation, than to buy a cheap car and have to chase annoying problems which can be expensive. It is also in unmodified, original condition! This is a fine Italian car that you will wake up and look forward to driving. Considering that all the work has been done for you, you needn't fear driving this car back home or driving it on an everyday basis. Truly, a fine car at a reasonable price!

Note that there is a significant difference between the 1991-1993 models and the 1994-1995 models. The 91-93 models came with 12V engines whilst the 94-95 models came with 24V engines. Exterior as well as interiors have been redesigned. The newer model years also had numerous upgrades including stronger structures, suspension enhancements, improved electronics with much fewer "stepper gear" problems, and other noteworthy upgrades. Plus, the 24V engine power is always nice to have and given that the 24V engine was used well into the 166 models, it is a proven engine for a flagship car!

Mechanical work done within 6 months to last year:
-Steering rack replacement + steering bushings (Lifetime warranty comes from Jorgen Automotive but I am not sure whether that can be transferred. Paper work will be provided.)
-Oil cooler hoses replaced
-Lower radiator hose replaced
-Front brake pads/front rotors
-Repainting of sunroof, front bumper, mirrors, stone chips on hood
-Horn relay
-Headlight replacement (as filament turned brown)
-Fuel door repair which had snapped off hinges
-Complete fluid change transmission, radiator, oil, brake, PS fluid etc...
-Interior light bulbs including the foot well lights
-Timing belt done with idler bearings @ 92K
-Front Struts and Springs done @ 92K
-Tires all around done @ 92-93K
-Etc. and other maintenance such as oil changes/filter

Mechanically:
-Drives perfectly, very stable, and strong willing engine
-No engine issues, engine stays within 160-190F range
-Transmission modes work. Sport holds gears appropriately, Auto upshifts quicker, Winter starts in 2nd gear
-ANSA chrome exhaust rumbles, sounds appropriate for engine
-Engine compartment clean and well-kept

Exterior:
-Very good, no delamination on clear coat. Minor scratches. Minor door dings. Nothing large. No rust on body.
-No rust underneath undercarriage. Amazing.
-Chrome in fine condition.
-Wheels are adequate but not great as they have scratches on them and have slight discoloration. They do not exhibit any curb rash on the edges.
-Glass is excellent.

Interior:
-Leather seats perfect, never guess they were 18 years old. No rips, tears, scuffs, scratches, abrasions, discoloration, and still retains its texture, not patina in my opinion.
-Scratches/texture issues on radio cover, and ash tray. See pics. Restoration on radio cover may be done pretty easily with acetone and spray paint. I have not done it because it doesn't bother me at all because I leave it open most of the time.
-Headliner clean and in good condition.
-All electronics work. Seats lift/adjust electrically, sunroof, mirrors, gas cap, trunk, etc.
-Radio is not original. It is a tape player. It is nothing fancy but adequate. I do not have the original radio.
-Rare! The climate display works. Must be a rare survivor or has been replaced. No fading at all.
-Carpet near perfect.
-Trunk clean

This car is in great condition but please be mindful that this is a 17-18 year old vehicle and therefore, your expectations should be realistic. It is not perfect, and car does not come with a warranty from seller, implied or explicit. On the whole, Alfa Romeos have a mystique aptly described by Jeremy Clarkson on Top Gear BBC. You've really never experienced a more pure driving experience until you've owned an Alfa Romeo. The connection the driver has with the engine and steering is unlike any car I've ever owned and I am sure many would agree.

One thing that I have always admired about the 164 is the engine. Just look at it. You could put a picture of it on your living room wall and call it art. Quite possibly one of the more aesthetically pleasing powerplants of our time. With no reserve, this Alfa will most likely fetch between $4,000 to $6,000. Overall, this is a pleasing example of a tasteful Italian sports sedan.

-Paul

Ferrari

1990 Ferrari F40

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In a world where Cadillac sedans are hitting 60 miles an hour in under 4.0 seconds, a car like the Ferrari F40 may seem insignificant. This would be a gross misunderstanding. Sheer speed isn't everything this car is about. It's about the delivery, the theater and the engineering. In the mid 1980s, Ferrari set out to create a successor to the 288GTO. Their sights were aimed squarely on the Porsche 959 in FIA Group B. After Group B came to a halt in 1986, this left Ferrari with a partially developed supercar with no race series in which to field it. Nevertheless, the F40 bowed in 1987, powered by a 2.9 liter, twin turbocharged V8 producing 471 horsepower with 16 psi of boost.

Accompanying the impressive powerplant was a body constructed of revolutionary materials, such as carbon fiber, kevlar and alumninum. Along with sparse interior accoutrements, this led to a low curb weight of 2,400 lbs. As a result, this car could reach 100 mph in about 7.5 seconds and could power on all the way to 201 mph, the first road legal production vehicle to break the 200 mph barrier. It isn't everyday an F40 comes up for sale, and this US spec example for sale in New Orleans is in impressive condition.

1990 Ferrari F40

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1990 Ferrari F40. 6,700 miles. Fully Serviced. Books, tools, records. In February 2012, this F40 completed a full service; mileage at end of service and current is 6699 miles. This F40 has all of original body parts, The paint is glossy and the body has no defects. The interior is clean and has no blemishes. The car is mechanical sound and the engine compartment has no fluid leaks. The tires are the proper size and match. A clean title.

We bought this pristine F40 from the private collection of the 1st owner in 2004 with 800 miles. The AutoCheck history report is described as having a mileage discrepancy in 2004. This is a erroneously report, The car was in the possession of Ferrari at the time of the alleged discrepancy and did not have a odometer repair, replaced or malfunction. Included with all records are documents from Ferrari stating and declaring the mileage on the car was correct mileage with no discrepancy.

Last year, Gooding & Company sold a US Spec F40 for $495,000 in Scottsdale. In 2008, a similar F40, albeit with a very low 712 miles, sold for $735,000 at the R&M Auctions Monterey Preview. The asking price of this example is in the ballpark. While these cars are impressive on their own technical merit, an overarching fact about the F40 is that it was the very last Ferrari to be commissioned by Enzo Ferrari before his death in August 1988. With this car, the old man went out on a high note.

As Jeremy Clarkson so eloquently put it in the following clip, this just isn't a supercar, it is the supercar.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1983 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

Current statistics show that Americans are hanging onto their cars longer; about six years or 27% longer before the recession according to Polk. It has me wondering, with increased reliability of newer vehicles, just how long can you keep a car going these days? Apparently very long if you can squeeze almost 230,000 miles out of an Alfa Romeo Spider. Normally we wouldn't feature a car with such high mileage on CICFS, but this Spider is a study in preservation, having benefitted from a repaint, replaced engine block and revived interior.

1983 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce on eBay

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1983 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce Roadster. VIN ZARBA5416D1016845. Aqua blue/light blue leather.

Equipped with:
2000 CC 4 CYL aluminum engine
Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection
Computerized digitial ignition
5-speed overdrive transmission
Limited slip differential
4-wheel power disc brakes
Capagnolo five star alloy wheels
Tinted glass
Power window
Side vent windows
Windshield antenna
Full instrumentation
Courtesy lights group
Front air dam
Rear spoiler
Upgraded stereo system
Car cover
Bra
Original window sticker
Workshop manual
Spare tire and tools
Maintenance records

EXTERIOR:
10 year old repaint that looks good
Right front fender has a small dent near valance
Small dimple on right side of hood
No cracks in glass
Doors, hood and trunk all align nicely
Top looks like new, back window is clear
Wheels and tires in excellent shape
Small rust issue in spare tire well
Great looking car that's 29 years old.

INTERIOR:
Seats have been redone and look great
Carpets are clea
No cracks in dash
Door panels look good with the exception of the top side on passenger door
More than nice inside

MECHANICAL:
Fires up easily and runs smoothly
Shifts excellent
Brakes work great
All gauges work
Had a long block installed at 161,410 miles
Drives like a dream

I've always had a weakness for Aqua blue, as it compliments the delicate lines of the Spider and reminds one of being near the ocean, which is the natural habitat for such a roadster. This car has had attention in all the right places. While it has a few dings and scratches and a little bit of surface rust in the trunk, I'm a fan of this car. The patina works well and it's heartening to see such a vehicle used as intended while being well maintained.

-Paul

Lancia

1971 Lancia Flavia 2000 Coupe

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With cars like the Mini, Citroën DS and Oldsmobile Toronado rolling around in the 1950s and 1960s, it is not surprising that Lancia, itself an innovative company, introduced its first front-wheel drive car, the Flavia, in 1961. With a horizontally opposed four cylinder engine and disc brakes on all four wheels, this was an advanced design for its time. The Flavia name has been resurrected for the modern day, in the form of a rebadged Chrysler 200 Convertible. It's rather unfortunate that some modern day Lancias are merely restyled Chryslers, as this glosses over the greatness that the Flavia name conveys with enthusiasts.

1971 Lancia Flavia 2000 Coupe

The first Italian front wheel drive car. Before the takeover by Fiat in 1969 Lancia’s always were technically sophisticated cars and the designers often had no eye for the commercial reality. The Flavia, which was introduced in 1960 was no exception to the rule. Italy’s first front wheel drive car was spacious, silent, comfortable, ugly, too expensive and was lacking performance because the designing engineer Antonio Fessia thought that fast cars were unsafe.

Because of the high prices Lancia had to ask for their technical masterpieces, sales actually were too low. Nevertheless Lancia added three additional versions to the Berlina. Every one of them designed and built by famous Italian designers. Pininfarina took care of the coupé, generally appreciated as the most beautiful Flavia. The Convertibile, with four seats, was created by Vignale and it looks more like the Berlina than the coupé. Zagato presented the very extraordinary Sport which had great aerodynamics.

His extravagant design however could not please everybody. Although the commercial success was poor (97,300 cars were made), the Flavia stayed in production for more than twelve years. The last two years the car was known as “2000”. It is also extraordinary that the car was manufactured for four more years after the takeover by Fiat. It can hardly have been profitable during that period.

During the twelve years the car was built, three series can be distinguished. Nowadays one would say that the car had undergone two facelifts, the first one in 1967. A new Berlina was introduced and production of the Convertibile and Sport ended. There were no changes to the coupé. In 1969 first the coupé had a facelift, followed by the Berlina in 1970.

This Flavia 2000 Coupé was first registered in 1971. The car is in a very goor condition. It looks stunning in this beautiful colour. It is very comfortable and it drives superbly! The Flavia 2000 Coupé now available at Montagna was first registered in 1971. The car is in a very good condition. It looks stunning in this beautiful colour. It is very comfortable and it drives superbly!

The seller's description is rather impressive, giving a good amount of history along with a little background on this particular car's life. While it could be mistaken for a later Beta model, these Flavias should not be confused with that model, as they were a significant were a huge step forward for Lancia. They were highly engineered cars and known for their durability. At about $17,000, this is a lot of classic Lancia for the money, considering it has covered under 50,000 miles.

-Paul

Ferrari, Modern Classic

1993 Ferrari 348 Series Speciale

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The Ferrari 348 reminds me of the series 996 Porsche 911. It came between two legendary models and is often overlooked by enthusiasts. The 348 was the successor to the successful 308/328 and the predecessor to the F355, which is fast becoming a modern classic in the truest sense. The 348 had an unusually short lifespan for a Ferrari of just six years. It was enough time to see a few special variants come along, including the car you see here for sale: the 348 Series Speciale. Only 100 units of this car was produced in TB and TS variants. Limited for sale to the US market, this edition had a higher horsepower motor (312 horsepower), revised tail lamps and a bigger front spoiler. The rear track was also widened by 25 millimeters. Fifteen units were made with Kevlar sport seats and this is one of them.

1993 Ferrari 348 Series Speciale

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1993 black/tan interior. 50,500 miles, engine out service was done January 2011 at 48,000 miles. New nuvolari exhaust, new cam belts and hill engineering tensioners, new front cover bearings, oil pump and timing chain tension blocks, waterpump rebuilt, new rear glass, valve covers powder coated red, new gaskets, ss brake lines, degree camshafts, Mobil 1, Red Line gear oil in trans, new ignition wires, new coil packs, rebuilt alternator, car at this time is registered and inspected, car sounds great drives great.

The mileage on this Ferrari is a bit higher than what we are used to seeing on these models, particularly on a rare edition such as this. This is a lot of exclusivity for the money, and with a recent servicing last year, one should be good for a few more thousand miles. All things being equal, this is a good price of entry for a modern day Ferrari and allows one to set aside funds for the next major servicing.

-Paul

Alfa Romeo, Modern Classic

1991 Alfa Romeo 164L

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Our feature car today comes from reader and fellow enthusiast Robert. The Alfa Romeo 164 was the last new Alfa Romeo sold in the United States until the 8C Competizione arrived on the scene in 2008. With Alfa's imminent return to the US market, it's a good time to reflect on the last of this company's mainstream offerings. There are less survivors of these midsize luxury sedans than contemporary Spiders, so when I come across a pampered 164 sedan, I take notice. This particular 164 has had only two owners over more than 20 years, comes with a wealth of service records and has the desirable 5 speed manual transmission.

1991 Alfa Romeo 164L

Asking $6,200.00 OBO; may trade for the right Ducati, Moto Guzzi, or BMW airhead.

For sale: my 1991 Alfa Romeo 164L in great condition. I have owned 3 of these cars and they are a pleasure to drive and to own. Their looks and sounds attract all the right kinds of attention.

About the Alfa:
-1991 164L (Lusso), styled by Pininfarina; one of the most reliable Alfas, and the car that saved the company; Enzo Ferrari's daily driver was an Alfa 164.
-5 speed manual gearbox
-2 fanatical owners (first owner for 20 years, I'm the second)
-No accidents (Carproof and CarFax included with vehicle)
-Excellent condition; car runs and handles beautifully with no issues; fast, smooth and responsive
-Metallic blue paint with some minor scuffs on the rear bumper
-Bright, supple leather interior with embossed crests; leather was treated regularly with Leatherique and is in amazing condition (smells fantastic)
-All service records since new come with the car; serviced exclusively by Alfa expert Pino at Pinarello Motors; no expense spared on the maintenance of this gorgeous car
-All original manuals, tools, spare, jack, included with sale
-All rubber and plastic on the car has been treated regularly with Aerospace 303 and Wurth protectants
-Hinges lubed regularly with Wurth products
-$400.00 custom Coco mats included with the car
-New Michelin tires
-Rust sprayed regularly
-Stored winters; hand washed and waxed

Spares:
I have a huge inventory of spares that will go with the car: Spare fenders, trunk, hood, full dashboard and HVAC system, shifter, pedal assembly, console, front and rear lights, full black leather interior, 2 extra sets of floormats, tool kit, manuals, bulbs, alternator, radiator, rubber trim, trunk mat, relays, ecu, and much more. This is a very enjoyable, beautiful car that handles a dream and will make someone very happy. Serious inquiries only; Thanks for looking.

The bright tan leather over the metallic blue really makes this car stand out amongst modern sedans, save for some of the more interesting color combinations one can order in modern Audis. The chiseled Pininfarina looks have stood the test of time and for the money, this is a fun alternative to a number of used sports sedans one could buy. I know I'm not the only one waiting for Alfa Romeo to return to the US market. Lately I've gotten bored with the styling direction of new cars, particularly BMWs and Mercedes-Benzes. The Italians have always had the lock on aesthetics and as Jeremy Clarkson said "alpha males drive BMWs.....Alfas are for nice people."

My compliments go out to Robert for preserving such a great piece of Alfa Romeo history. If you have had your eye on an Alfa Romeo 164 for some time, this car is the one to buy.

-Paul