1972 Alfa Romeo 2000 GTV

The 2000 GTV was introduced in 1971 as the replacement for the 1750 range. Once again the engine was rationalised throughout the range with its displacement increased to 1962cc by changing the bore and stroke. The engine produces 150bhp at 5500rpm with carburettors that were retained for European markets.

Externally the 2000 GTV is most easily distinguished by the facelift grille with horizontal chrome bars, featuring protruding blocks forming the familiar Alfa heart in outline, smaller hubcaps with exposed wheel nuts and optional aluminium alloy wheels are styled to the "turbina" design first seen on the alloy wheels of the Alfa Romeo Montreal.

Often overlooked, the beautiful 105 Series Coupés have been under-appreciated for a long time. In the retail marketplace there is evidence that these models may have matured, with asking prices approaching £20,000 in many cases. Partly due to their usability, but largely owing to their impressive styling, the GTV has become sought after and a great alternative as a classic GT. The 105 was an extremely well specified car in its day with a 5-speed gearbox and discs all round, not to mention the LSD; even by today's standards the GTV is spritely and exhilarating to drive.

This particular GTV is finished in Rosso AR501 with Black Connolly leather replacing the vinyl seat furnishing which would have originally been in place. The bodywork presents beautifully with sharp lines and the paintwork, though not flawless, looks very pleasing and responds well to polish. It is described by the vendor as a car he is proud to own. The recipient of an older restoration, the sills and major rust spots were all taken care of in the late 90's/early 2000's by Lombarda London so structurally the car is sound and the door and window shuts are tight. The interior, as mentioned, shows very little sign of wear, the carpets are as new, though the dash unfortunately has the usual crack in the middle. The wooden veneers are great as is the rest of the interior, described by the vendor as a fantastic place to sit. He further offers, (with an element of surprise) that even the electrics work as they should - not a boast you'll hear from every Alfa owner!

The engine is the heart and soul of any Italian sports car and the 2000cc all alloy inline 4 fitted here is no disappointment. It sports Dell'Orto DHLA40 carburettors and sounds as well as she goes thanks to the straight-through GTA tail-pipe. The gearbox is great and precise and compliments the rear axle well. The brakes benefit from the recent replacement servo/master cylinder and braided brake lines giving impressive brake performance for a 40 year old vehicle. The suspension is courtesy of the Alfaholics fast road kit and transforms the car radically. The dampers are Koni's. The axle and prop shaft are in great condition with no whines or issues. This car is reported to handle sublimely with the capability to embarrass many modern cars. Finally, the fantastic 40:10 rear LSD is a massive improvement from earlier differentials.

The history of this car is a testament to its 5 previous owners with many receipts for various parts and services included in the generous history file.

Having covered just 75,000 miles through 40 years, this is a car which deserves serious consideration at a guide significantly below many inferior cars in the market.