Alfa Romeo 2000 Spider (Series 102)

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Alfa Romeo’s 2000 model line (102 Series) was its second production car after World War 2. The first, the 1,884cc four-cylinder powered 1900, had been its first model built on a production line.

First shown at the 1957 Turin Motor Show, the 2000 would initially be produced in two forms. Featuring independent front suspension with A-arms, a live rear axle with longitudinal radius arms, and four-wheel hydraulic Alfin drum brakes, the saloon (Berlina), would be built by Alfa itself, whereas the open-topped spider (on the same 98in wheelbase) was outsourced to Carrozzeria Touring.

Both models were powered by an enlarged 1975cc version of the 1900’s engine, a twin overhead cam, ‘hemi’ four-cylinder with a cast-iron block and aluminium head. Equipped with a single downdraft Solex carburetor in the saloon, it gave 105bhp.

Thanks to a higher compression ratio and twin Weber carbs, the roadster had 115bhp. And where the Berlina had a more sedentary column gear shift, the open car retained the more sporting-oriented floor-mounted gear stick. In 1960, the Sprint coupe (also with floor-mounted gear shift) was added to the range.

Produced between 1958 and 1962, the 2000 Spider was a fairly rare beast with only 3,443 built. It was succeeded by the outwardly similar 2600. Improving on the earlier model, that car was powered by a 2.6-litre DOHC straight-six that produced 142bhp. This model also had a five-speed transmission, but had improved hydraulically-assisted disc brakes all round.

Compared with Alfa’s other roadster of the period, the petite Giulietta Spider (101 Series), the 2000 was far more the long-legged, long distance tourer. Indeed its bigger cabin and graceful styling more resemble the Ferrari 250 cabriolets. And, while the Alfa six cannot compete with the wail of a V12, on the open road, at cruising speeds it is an able and rewarding car to drive. Build quality was also high.

This c.1960 Alfa 2000 Spider spent its first 10 years in Italy, being first registered in the UK in 1970 to a London gentleman who was to keep it until 1988 when it was acquired by the current owner. He has never driven the car and it has remained in dry storage for the last 26 years.

About six years ago some attempt was made to get the car in more useable condition and we are informed that the engine was got running for a brief time before the car went back into storage. It comes with an owners handbook, an old style V5 and a factory hardtop.

Now in need of restoration, it should amply reward the work required to return it to the road and will make a great winter project.