Alfa Romeo Spider 2.0 S3

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The Alfa Romeo Spider was manufactured from 1966 to 1993 and is widely regarded as a design classic, remaining in production for almost three decades with only minor aesthetic and mechanical changes along the way.

The first three series were assembled by Pininfarina in Grugliasco and the fourth series in San Giorgio Canavese, this being the last rear-wheel drive Alfa. The Series Three Spider was previewed in North America for the 1982 model year with the introduction of Bosch electronic fuel injection to replace the SPICA mechanical injection on the 134bhp 2-litre engine. A 5-speed gearbox was standard.

The S3 Spider also underwent a styling revamp which saw the introduction of black rubber front and rear bumpers. The front bumper incorporated the grille and a soft rubber spoiler was added to the boot lid for improved aerodynamics. The underpinnings were effectively the same as the superb Giulia saloon, so beloved of the Italian Carabinieri, comprising independent front suspension, coil-suspended live rear axle, servo-assisted disc brakes all round and the most communicative steering you could ever wish to experience.

“It is difficult to put into words the sheer charm of this open sports Alfa Romeo,” wrote Autocar’s John Bolster in 1969. “It is the kind of car that even an experienced test driver will take out for the sheer fun of handling it… yet it is just as easy to drive as the most unexciting family hack.”

This super left-hand drive 1984 Spider S3 was supplied new in Germany and was imported to the UK in 2007, shortly after which the body received light restoration where necessary and rectification of the Nero Metallico paintwork. The vendor states that: “The tan leather is in lovely supple condition with no rips or tears and the mohair hood in excellent condition. The 2-litre twin cam engine is strong, has good oil pressure and pulls well with an MOT until April 2017. The indicated mileage of 74,000 is believed genuine.”

Quite apart from being one of the best-looking classic convertibles, the Spider is also thoroughly practical as a usable daily driver or just for weekend pleasure. As Top Gear said: “You are not a true classic car enthusiast until you have owned an Alfa”.