Original very early and correct Duetto
Original very early and correct Duetto
When Alfa Romeo unveiled the new Spider 1600 in 1966, it faced the difficult task of succeeding the small Giulietta/Giulia Spider, a car beloved unconditionally across Italy. However, the design masters of Pininfarina succeeded in creating Alfa’s greatest sports car success ever, with a design that remained virtually unchanged throughout a production run spanning four decades. Undoubtedly, the new 105-series Spider got a kickstart among car enthusiasts thanks to its appearance in the 1967 film The Graduate, starring a young Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft as the stunning Mrs. Robinson.
To mark the launch, Alfa Romeo held a naming contest that drew over 100,000 entries. The winning name was “Duetto” – Italian for “duet” or “for two.” However, since a chocolate manufacturer already held the rights to the name, Alfa was unable to use it officially. Nevertheless, the model became popularly known as the “Duetto”—a nickname that stuck to the model until the 1967 facelift, which introduced the models more modern and distinctive “cut-off” (Kamm-tail) rear end. In fact, Italians still use this nickname for all versions of the 105-series Spider to this day.
Technically, the Duetto featured the ever classic all-aluminum “North” engine with dual overhead camshafts. Output was 109 bhp – significantly more power than comparable 1600cc engines of the era. For comparison, Porsche could only extract 90 hp from its equivalent 1600cc Super 90 engine! Add to that a five-speed gearbox and disc brakes front and rear – and you have a true sports car.
This Duetto is in remarkably original condition and is one of the earliest examples, featuring the original Dunlop braking system. It is finished in classic Pininfarina Rosso with a black vinyl interior. The previous owner has restored and repaired numerous components (the list is extensive), including the gearbox and the entire suspension, which can be felt when driving the car, it’s still a great pleasure to use. The soft top and tonneau cover are also new. Originally imported from Como, Italy, the car comes with its original libretto. Ready to be enjoyed by its lucky new owner, the car simply awaits a connoisseur who appreciates the high quality it offers.
Have this vehicle inspected by experts!
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