1970 Alfa Romeo 1750 GT Veloce GTV

Background:

The Alfa Romeo 1750 GTV appeared in 1967, replacing the Giulia Sprint GT Veloce and introducing many updates and modifications. Most significantly, the engine capacity was increased to 1779cc, and the peak power from the engine was raised to 120bhp at 5500rpm. A higher ratio final drive was fitted, but the same gearbox ratios were retained. The result was that, on paper, the car had only slightly improved performance compared to the Giulia Sprint GT Veloce. However, on the road, it was much more flexible to drive, and it was easier to maintain higher average speeds for fast touring.

The new nose styling eliminated the "stepped" bonnet of the Giulia Sprint GT, GTC, GTA, and early GT 1300 Juniors. It now incorporated four headlamps. There was a new dashboard with large speedometer and tachometer instruments in twin binnacles that were closer to the driver's line of sight. The instruments were also mounted at a more conventional angle, thus avoiding the reflections caused by the upward-angled flat dash of the earlier cars. New seats were introduced with adjustable headrests, which merged with the top of the seat when fully lowered. The window winder levers, the door release levers, and the quarter-light vent knobs were also restyled.

The later Series 2 1750 GTV of 1970 introduced other mechanical changes, including a dual-circuit braking system. Externally, the Series 2 1750 GTV is identified by new, slimmer bumpers with front and rear over-riders. The combined front indicator and sidelight units were now mounted to the front panel instead of the front bumper, and the interior was slightly modified, with the seats retaining the same basic outline but following a simpler design.

The car:

This beautiful example was first registered in Italy in 1970 and was fully restored just one year ago in 2023. Despite this, it still carries its original number plates and has a genuine 79,950kms on the clock. The chassis number is AR 1381395, along with Engine: 00548.

During the pandemic, the car, which was already in decent condition, was completely disassembled and restored inside, outside, and underneath. The exterior was repainted in French Blue, a colour used for only 200 cars, and it is the original colour, as confirmed by the certificate issued by Alfa Heritage. Underneath, two corners of the front floor pan were replaced with new sheet metal due to rust. The underside was cleaned, and the original grey underbody protective coating was reapplied. The brakes were fully overhauled, with the replacement of rubber hoses, the pump, brake pads, and a complete revision of the four brake calipers. All the tie rods in the front end are new, along with new tyres and Chromodora magnesium alloy wheels, which were an optional feature at the time and have been refurbished.

The engine has been completely rebuilt, including a new water pump, alternator, starter motor, carburettor overhaul, and a brand-new exhaust system. The windshield was replaced because the old one was scratched. The seat covers were replaced because the old ones were worn out over time, with new covers identical to the originals. The dashboard is perfect, without cracks or defects, and the instruments work perfectly, as does the electrical system. The front headlights and rear taillights are also new.

The bodywork is excellent, with the chassis free of any kind of visible corrosion. The chrome parts are excellent, the alloy wheels are correct and in excellent condition, as are all the tyres. The beautiful light brown leather interior presents beautifully and has no rips or tears. The headlining is also perfect, completely intact, which is extraordinary.

The car is in perfect mechanical condition, as you would expect given how recently it was restored. The legendary 4-cylinder double overhead cam engine is perfect and "on the button," as is the wonderful 5-speed gearbox.

Summary:

You would be hard-pressed to find a better example. A superb find, given its recent restoration, and the fact it still retains many original features — a rare combination.

Location: Lazio, Italy

Seller: Private

Photos: Vendor Supplied