Alfa Romeo GTV Spider Lusso

Launched at the 1995 Geneva Motor Show, the Alfa Romeo GTV Coupe and Spider convertible were rapturously received by press and public alike. 

Beautifully styled by Pininfarina, both cars featured a flying wedge shape with a low nose and high kicked up tail that looked fast even when standing still. To save weight the bonnet, inner and outer front wings and bumpers were made from a composite plastic, while the rest of the body was galvanized to end once and for all that old Alfa bugbear of rust.

Two main engines were available, the 150bhp 2-litre Twin Spark or the more potent 3-litre V6 in either 12-valve 190bhp spec or 220bhp 24-valve spec. Even the 2-litre engine could propel the car to 60mph in 8.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 137mph while the lighter weight actually made it more fun to drive fast than the 3-litre. Allied to secure front-wheel drive handling were direct 2.2 turns lock-to-lock steering and an all new multilink rear suspension which gave pin-sharp responses.

This lovely 1999 2-litre Spider has the top-spec Lusso equipment pack with a gorgeous Momo red leather interior, brushed-aluminium centre console, electric hood and air conditioning. Said to be in “very good condition and a joy to drive” it has covered just over 61,000 miles from new with a full service history including a recent cam belt change.

Supplied with a current MOT and tax it just needs a happy new owner behind the wheel – and a sunny day on which to enjoy it! As anyone who has hustled one along a country road will know, these little sportscars are an absolute hoot to drive and this one looks a steal at the guide price suggested today.