Details 1965 ALFA ROMEO GIULIA SPRINT SPECIALE COACHWORK BY BERTONE
Chassis No. AR380020 Engine No. AR00121*00012
White with red leather interior
Engine: four cylinder in-line, twin overhead camshafts, 1,570cc, 129bhp at 6,500rpm;
Gearbox: five-speed manual;
Suspension: front independent with unequal A-arms, coil springs, rear coil springs, radius arms;
Brakes: front disc, rear Alfin drums. Left hand drive.
The prototype Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Speciale made its debut at the Turin Salon in October 1957 and went into limited production in mid 1959. The Bertone design was futuristic and reflected the streamlining principles that had been incorporated on the B.A.T. concept cars. Typically, the engine was a sweet jewel, free revving and sporting. Coupled with a new five-speed gearbox, the mechanical specification was almost as revolutionary as the inspired body design. The SS engine was uprated to 1570cc and henceforth the car became known as a Giulia Sprint Speciale. It was introduced in Geneva in March 1963 and there were further interior improvements, as well as the addition of the script along the front wing and tail. Mechanically the torque was much improved and in a Road & Track feature test, the testers commented on the impressive acceleration of the new SS, with a 0-60mph time recorded in 12 seconds. This gorgeous Giulia SS was supplied new in August 1965 by Dutch main agents Louwman & Co. of Leidschendam to a Dr. Carter living in San Diego, CA. In July 1967 Mr. D. Theige of Long Beach purchased the car and fastidiously kept a complete log book for the Alfa, recording each and every journey with dates, mileage and trips. He fondly remembers his period of ownership and how admired the Alfa always was. The mileage in 1967 was 10,766 and Mr. Theige sold the car in March 1975 when the mileage was 79,289. The car was then fully restored, but amazingly has traveled only a further 500 miles, the indicated mileage now being just 79,787. The early chassis number for the Alfa would indicate that it is a 1963/64 example, but the original Service Coupon Book confirms that it was retailed new in August 1965. The condition today is quite superb and to show standard, with excellent panelwork and virtually flawless ivory white paintwork. The brightwork is unmarked and the steel wheels are immaculate. The shut lines around the doors, bonnet and boot are outstanding. The interior has been retrimmed with red leather upholstery for the seats and matching door trim and red carpeting. The whole of the interior is unmarked and as well presented as the paintwork. A rare feature is the original factory Bertone blanking plate for the radio. The present owner has also been fastidious during his ownership of the car and recorded every journey, always keeping the car garaged and covered when not in use. On a modest test drive it ran sweetly and, when fully warmed up, it drove well and without fault. The condition is exemplary and a tribute to the ownership history. It is offered with an original copy of the Road & Track report, original Giulia SS Instruction Book (in poor condition) and original Alfa Romeo SS Giulia Spare Parts Catalogue. This smartly presented model would make a fine addition to any motor house, as it is both rare and attractive.