Lot 312: 1967 Alfa Romeo GTC Convertible

A direct evolution of the 1954 Giulietta Sprint, the Bertone designed Giulia Sprint GT soon established a fine reputation on road and track following its introduction in 1962. Against its predecessor, it was a much more refined and relaxed car to drive, reflecting the changing nature of Europe's roads as higher cruising speeds became more easily attainable. Initially, the Giulia was little more than a Giulietta powered by a 92bhp, 1,570cc version of the Giulietta 1,290cc twin-cam, all-alloy four cylinder engine. At the 1963 Frankfurt Show however, Alfa launched the Giulia Sprint GT, with pretty all-new Bertone coachwork which, for the first time, allowed practical rear seat accommodation. Power was also increased to 105bhp, good for 112mph and comfortable 100mph cruising via a five-speed gearbox. Under the steel skin, the chassis remained much as for the Giulietta: coil spring independent front suspension and a live rear axle but now with standard front disc brakes with rear discs added the following year. For 1965, a new limited production convertible model, the 1600 GTC, joined the line-up. Based on the Sprint GT but subtly restyled by Touring of Milan, this attractive variation featured a slightly more sloping tail, a larger boot, wind-up rear quarter-light windows and a hood which folded unobtrusively into a recess behind the rear seats; otherwise it shared the same mechanical specification as the Giulia Sprint GT. When GTC production ceased in 1967, less than 99 right-hand drive examples had been built.It is indeed rare, therefore, to see one for sale. This sound example has been in the same family for over 20 years and was fully restored in 1987 by Richard Banks. The restoration included an engine rebuild and the car left his premises in excellent condition and in full mechanical working order. After 103,000 miles, in 1999, the engine was again rebuilt and this car has covered just 5,000 miles since. Included in the sale is over 20 years of paperwork, including repair bills, service receipts and engine rebuild details. A special and extremely good looking example from the famous Milanese stable.