Alfa Romeo 2600 Spider

Description

This 1964 Alfa Romeo 2600 Spider (Tipo 106), performs as well as it looks. It’s an exciting convertible with graceful coachwork, hand built by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan and is one of just 103, right hand drive factory produced cars. It’s powered by a glorious six-cylinder engine, fueled by three double barrel carburettors with a claimed maximum output of 145bhp which was good enough for a top speed of around 125mph. Cars Illustrated magazine reckoned this magnificent power unit “one of the smoothest, quietest running sixes, irrespective of the speed at which it is running, in our experience”.

This particular car was delivered by Chipstead Motors in London, to its first owner in 1964 and remained in the UK until approximately 1994. It then came to Ireland and has been in continuous use and well cared for by three previous owners, the most recent of whom has owned it since 2012.

The car presents superbly thanks to a body restoration and repaint that was completed in 2017. Chrome work is bright and free of pitting and many items were replaced or rechromed as part of the 2017 work. The bodywork is solid throughout, with no visible signs of rust or previous accident damage. It sits on correct steel wheels with new Alfa Romeo centre caps and period correct Michelin tyres, adding to its authentic appearance.

Inside, the cabin retains much of its original charm. The seats were retrimmed at some point in the past and new carpets were recently fitted. The dashboard is free of cracks, and all gauges and switches work correctly. The interior offers a clean, honest feel that reflects careful use and ownership.

Mechanically sound and well-sorted, the inline six cylinder motor fires up easily from all temperatures and runs smoothly through all five gears. The car benefits from consistent maintenance and as a result it starts, idles, and revs cleanly, showing good oil pressure and temperature stability. Underneath, the chassis is clean and shows no signs of corrosion.

On the road, this classic drives as it should, it’s engaging, smooth, and with plenty of character. Steering is direct, braking is confident, and the ride is composed for a car of its age. Whether cruising or pressing on, it offers an enjoyable, nostalgic driving experience that’s hard to match with modern equivalents.