Lot 660: Alfa Romeo Guilia Sprint Speciale

The Sprint Speciale introduced in 1957, clothed with coachwork is amongst the most sensuous bodywork ever to emerge from the Bertone design studio. Inspired by the great aerodynamicist Franco Scaglione, the lovingly formed panels reflected the global 1950s love affair with supersonic flight, as well as the passion and the sexiness inherent in all the great Italian automotive designs. In fact, the streamlined, two door, coupe bodywork bore a marked resemblance to some of Alfa Romeo's earlier competition designs, particularly the famous Disco Volante sports-racer. From every angle, delicate curve gave way to subtle sweep. Yet there was nothing flighty or voluptuous about the SS's lines. Rather, it quickened the pulse in the way of a demure woman who reveals previously undreamt of curves. Although the first five or six Sprint Speciales produced were bodied in aluminium rather than steel, all subsequent models were still fitted with an aluminium bonnet and boot lid. Quite apart from great looks, the SS was the performance revelation of its day. Powered by the 1,290cc, twin overhead camshaft, four cylinder Giulietta engine, specially tuned to produce 116bhp at 6,500rpm, it could achieve 124mph, thanks to the combination of a specially tuned motor, a weight of just 875kg (dry) and, in particular, incredible aerodynamic efficiency; way back in 1958, the SS had a drag coefficient factor of 0.27 which is better than just about any modern saloon or hatchback in production today! From 1963 it would be powered by the more powerful, 129bhp, 1,570cc engine from the new Giulia, again mated to a five speed gearbox; otherwise, apart from a 1600 badge on the tail, it remained identical to its predecessor. Chassis no 381237 was manufactured in 1964 and imported into the UK in 1989 and sold to Lord Brocket, the well-known peer and classic car enthusiast who has recently become a recognisable face due to his appearances on reality TV shows. Lord Brocket raced the car in numerous races including the 1989 Coppa d'Italia and the Oldtimer Grand Prix at Nurburgring. Prior to this it had been owned by Stefano d'Amico, President of the Italian Alfa-Romeo Register. Stefano campaigned the car very successfully during this period, eventually winning two Italian historic championships. Described by the vendor as being in very good condition throughout, this historic Alfa comes complete with FIA and HSCC papers, and as such would make an ideal purchase for anyone wishing to compete in any historic competition events.