Description
Introduced in 1962, the Alfa Romeo 2600 traces its origins back to the earlier 2000—itself a 1958 update of the venerable 1900. However, the 2600 had something which earlier models lacked: Specifically, a double-overhead camshaft six-cylinder engine, which gave it smoothness, flexibility, and a top speed of 125 mph. This 2. 6-liter engine fit neatly into the same engine compartment as the 2000’s four-cylinder and had been developed from the Giulietta engine, suggesting that the designers had a six-cylinder in mind for the model from the start. Styling was also Giulietta-derived, as the 2600 added single-piece bumpers, built-in driving lights, and a single air intake perched near the front of the elongated hood.
The 2600 was fitted with a smooth five-speed gearbox and also featured four-wheel disc brakes—a first for street Alfa Romeos. It was offered as a sharp-edged berlina sedan, which was styled in-house, a Bertone-penned coupe, which was one of Giorgetto Giugiaro’s first designs, and the handsome 2600 spider by Touring.
The wonderful Spider example we are offering for sale was built in RHD and registered new in the United Kingdom on the 27th February, 1964. It is the 20th of just 103 RHD car built by Alfa Romeo and Carrozzeria Touring of Milan.
It is understood that the first owner of this Spider was a racing driver who purchased it for his wife who found it all bit too heavy to drive. As a result, it remained virtually unused until it changed hands in 1980. The MOT certificate on file at the time documents an odometer reading of just 98 miles.
Car collector and rally driver John Rondeau later purchased it on 11th April 1994 from the Sotheby's sale at RAF Hendon. He used the car sparingly until 2009 when he sold it to a Hampshire based enthusiast who commenced a cosmetic restoration of the car. The last MOT issued prior to restoration states an odometer reading of just 22, 384 miles.
The restoration works were all carried out to a very high level of detail and included re stripping the body and finishing it in Blu Sera Metallizzate and retrimming the interior in tan leather. Shortly after this, a full mechanical overhaul was carried out with new pistons, liners, bearings and chains throughout. The cylinder head has also been overhauled with new-hardened valves, guides and springs. The triple Weber carburettors have been stripped and overhauled, as have the water pump, steering box and idler.
As a result, the car sits today in wonderful condition and maintains an extensive history file documenting the recent restoration works as well as a Certificato di Origine from Alfa Romeo Classiche confirming the delivery date and location. It also includes original copies of all MOTs issued from 1980 through to 2009 when the car was taken off of the road for cosmetic restoration, confirming the low mileage.
This attractive and masterfully restored 2600 Spider is an ideal Alfa Romeo candidate for shows and tours alike. Contact us now for more information or to arrange a viewing.
