Alfa Romeo Spider
Reviewed by Unique Cars and Parts
Our Rating: 3
Introduction
The Geneva motor show of 1966 was the launch of the Alfa Romeo Duetto Spider, and was the last complete design from Battista
Pininfarina. Despite initial sales being disappointing the basic model managed to stay in production for 27 years.
At first the shape attracted some criticism, but over time, the car's lines became more graceful which culminated in the square-tailed cars made during the late 1980's. The variations of the Alfa twin cam engine grew from 1300cc through to 1600, 1750 and finally, a full 2-litre in the early 1970's. Popular opinion rates the 1750 the highest, due to its refinement, although the 1600 was known to give great acceleration.
But the two-litre model clearly offered the most torque. Although distinctively slower, the 1750 Spider was priced similarly to the Jaguar E-Type making it an expensive acquisition in 1969. But it did give the driver smoother
steering, slicker gears and fine disc
brakes considered far and above most cars of its time. Its hood was both watertight and easy to use, with one hand only needing for its lifting.
The car was made famous by Dustin Hoffman in the film "The Graduate".
