Sometimes we come across an example of a car that we might normally overlook modified in just the right way to catch our eye.  Take, for example, last month's Bertone X-1/9 Corsa, or any lowered Ferrari Mondial on 17" wheels.  The right set of wheels or subtle cosmetic touch can transform our perception of a nice, but perhaps not-quite-enticing car.

This is exactly why we've chosen today's Alfa Spider.  Sure, the Bosch cars are reliable, and any Spider has plenty of appeal in its own right, but they aren't the most unique choice among Italian sports cars.  Why, then, do we find ourselves so drawn to this particular example?  First, the BWA wheels are a great for a red Spider like this one.  Add to that the faded red vinyl wrap with the black hood section, and the sort of garish but simultaneously cool Quadrifoglios behind the front wheels, and we have to say that the overall effect is pretty scrappy and appealing.

Year: 1986
Model: Alfa Romeo
Engine: 2.0L 4-cyl
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage:  55,936 mi
Price: $11,900

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider Graduate

GR Auto Gallery is pleased to present this 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce for your consideration. This Alfa is finished in a Red and Black custom Vinyl Wrap over the Black vinyl interior. It features a set of Alfa BWA 14x6 alloy wheels and Ereminas chassis stiffeners which are both rare and desirable options. There are currently speakers in the kick panels but there is no radio installed, the factory radio delete plate is in excellent condition. All gauges, lights, switches and factory controls function as they should. According to the current owner, this Alfa was recently serviced and features a new head gasket along with new front sway bar links, a new heater blower motor, new fuel injection hoses and new motor mounts. This Spider Veloce is a looker and gives a very comfortable ride going down the road. Please call or email us today for more information.

We are not quite sure why the seller has listed this particular Spider as a Veloce.  It shows a Graduate badge on the decklid, and the seats sure seem to be Graduate-spec vinyl.  Crank windows adhere to the Graduate spec as well.  The top is a cloth unit, most likely as a result of a top replacement, though a graduate would be optioned with a vinyl top from the factory.  We're not familiar with Spider HVAC controls, although there is a chance that this unit has A/C, as was an option on Graduates.  There appears to be a knob for cool air in the cabin, but the engine bay photos don't allow us to see if there is a compressor mounted to the engine.

We are not in love with the price on this car, but that is not to say that the car is not worth the asking price.  The interior is most certainly clean and mostly complete, the underside doesn't show any signs of rust, and the seller claims that everything is functional.  We recommend this example to anyone in the market for a Series 3 Spider with some cool cosmetic upgrades.

-Graham