1958 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider
HIGHLIGHTS
Matching Numbers in Desirable Factory Colors
Matured Restoration Performed to High Standard
25 Years of Previous Western-Washington Ownership
SPECIFICATIONS
Chassis Number - 1495 04616
Engine – 1.3-Liter Inline 4-Cylinder Twin Cam
Gearbox – 4-Speed Manual
Drivetrain - Front-Engine, RWD
PRICING INFORMATION
Price - Please Inquire
OVERVIEW
One of the oldest and most respected builders of performance cars, Alfa Romeo has survived two world wars, rapidly changing technologies, and political strife. After years of making finely crafted hand-built cars Alfa shifted their focus to broader markets with new models that were small, sporty, fashionable, and finely trimmed. These cars achieved strong sales in Europe and America due to their twin cam in-line four-cylinder engine, synchromesh gearbox, and excellent suspension, all of which combined to offer a spirited and elegant driving experience. Nowhere was this more notable than in the Spider configuration which allowed for two passenger open air motoring, nimble handling, and spirited performance.
This Alfa Romeo Spider was originally delivered to Thomas Chalfon McCornell, a resident of Illinois on October 8, 1958. Originally finished in the desirable Celeste blue color, this Spider remained in North America until it was purchased by California resident Eric Van Nice in the 1990s. In 1997/98 Mr. Van Nice commissioned a comprehensive restoration including repaint by Fabricante Auto Body and Paint, Lake Forest, CA. For the interior, a new top and interior materials were sourced from Re-Originals, and the interior was reupholstered by Mike’s Auto Tops and Upholstery, Laguna Hills, CA. The engine and mechanical details were completed by APC, Laguna Hills, CA. Additionally, the restoration included rebuilding and refinishing all three Veglia gauges by Palo Alto Speedometer, sourcing and installing a pair of correct Carello headlights, and fitting or restoring numerous correct engine components and details per the original specifications. After the restoration was completed, this Spider was exhibited at the 1999 Concorso Italiano during Monterey Car Week, and subsequently sold to an Alfa Romeo enthusiast in Kirkland, WA in 2000.
The owner enjoyed occasional driving and attendance at local shows while tending to general services as needed. Regular fluid services and general maintenance have also included upgrading the car with new ignition components including Lucas rotor, new spark plug wires, and a Bosch coil. More recently, the original Solex carburetor was rebuilt and placed in a box for storage, and a period-correct-upgrade Weber 36 DCD unit was installed, offering a more-steady state of tune (The Solex is included with the car.) Additionally, new bearings and seals were installed in the gearbox by NW Vintage and Classic in Puyallup, WA.
The condition of the car beguiles the years that have lapsed since the restoration was completed, showing the care that this car was subject to during its 25-year prior ownership. Though the finish was applied many years ago, the quality has continued to prevail with vivid luster, excellent panel work, and smooth reflections. The body panels and gaps are particularly nice including the hood and trunk which open easily and close with tight latching. The chrome plating is excellent throughout, even on parts that more typically exhibit pitting or crazing. The door handles, side trim, and headlight trim are visually quite nice including the thin windshield perimeter trim, correct Carello headlights, excellent taillight lenses, and colorful emblems. The delicate trim and Pininfarina badges are delightful touches of jewelry, subtly identifying the coachwork and manufacturer.
The interior is very well presented overall including the black trimmed seats, door panels, and dashboard pad. The seats are trimmed in black with matching Celeste piping, backed by black rear cowl drape concealing the full-sized spare tire. The black canvas convertible top and clear rear plastic window are in excellent condition and the top latches properly when mounted to the windshield header. The condition of the top is quite nice as are the inside headliner and refinished top irons. The trunk is finished with correct ribbed rubber matting laid over the matching Celeste finished inner trunk panels.
The matching numbers engine has been prepared with attention to detail and authenticity. The finishes are correct and well-detailed including the textured black twin-cam cover, correct finish to the firewall, correct green ignition wires, and proper period hardware. It should be noted that the car was photographed with the original Solex carb in place, not the current Weber. The underside of the car has been properly preserved since restoration, and is quite suitable for local or regional shows.
The car starts easily on the current Weber carburetor and the recently serviced 4-speed gearbox shifts well. The engine works very well with the 4-speed gear spacing while the overall weight of the car is enhanced by the high-revving twin-cam engine. Handling is very satisfying, with enchanting road manners readily appreciated wether carving mountain roads or engaging in delightful sunset cruising with the top down.
This Alfa Romeo is accompanied by service records and restoration receipts from the former and current owners dating back to 1997, an owner’s manual, and a rebuilt Solex carburetor.
This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a beautifully restored Giulietta Spider featuring excellent cosmetics and mechanical preparation. Finished in stunning original colors, equipped with a matching numbers engine, and lovingly cared for over the past 25 years, this Spider is ready for enjoyable driving, vintage shows, and Alfa Romeo club events.
Please contact Jason at +1-206-355-7727 or Hans at +1-425-417-5877 for more information on this vehicle.
