Alfa Romeo 1750 classic car for sale

History of the Alfa Romeo 1750

First introduced at the Brussels Motor Show on 17 January 1968, the Alfa Romeo 1750 Berlina emerged as a higher-class saloon based on the success of the Giulia. The design, executed by Bertone, maintained clear stylistic ties to its predecessor while signalling a shift towards greater spaciousness and practical comfort, thanks to a wheelbase stretched by 60 mm. The model designation '1750' paid homage to the celebrated pre-war 6C 1750 six-cylinder. Offered mainly as a Berlina but also underpinning the coupe and spider models, the 1750 made a mark until 1971 when it was succeeded by the 2000 Berlina.

Model History

The Alfa Romeo 1750 was crafted as a successor to the Giulia but offered more space, higher grade appointments, and an uprated engine. Its key mechanical advance was the 1779 cc twin-cam four-cylinder, developing 113 PS in early versions. Two series were produced, identified as Serie I and II; the latter came with updates like high-mounted pedals and black number plates. The model code 105.48 (AR00548 engine) is typical. The 1750 Berlina was later succeeded by the Alfa Romeo 2000 Berlina in 1971 and ultimately the Alfetta in 1972. Coupé (GT Veloce) and Spider Veloce versions shared the 1750's core engineering, cementing the 1750’s influence across the Alfa range.

Highlights of the Alfa Romeo 1750

The 1750 boasts several technical and design highlights: a 1.8-litre double overhead camshaft engine known for its lively torque and responsiveness, a five-speed manual gearbox, and power delivered to the rear wheels. Notable interior features include fine wooden trim, an elegant classic dashboard, supportive continuously adjustable seats, and four supplementary instruments in the centre console. Exterior signatures include slim A-pillars for excellent forward visibility, large headlights on early Berlinas, sloped rear screen, and distinctive Italian paintwork choices, including metallic blue and olive green. Enthusiasts value authentic period color combinations and original interior trim.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Alongside the Berlina, the 1750 badge was carried by notable sporting derivatives such as the 1750 GT Veloce coupé, which featured a more aggressive front end and performance-orientated characteristics, and the Pininfarina-bodied 1750 Spider Veloce, famed for its American export success and pop culture appearance in films like 'The Graduate'. The ultra-rare 1750 GTAm, produced in fewer than forty units, became a touring car championship winner and remains highly desirable for specialist collectors.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

While the Alfa Romeo 1750 enjoys a longstanding reputation for mechanical reliability and service-friendly engineering, buyers should pay close attention to interior originality, especially seat upholstery and dashboards, as well as the condition of metallic paintwork and chrome details. Check for signs of wear on moving parts (clutch, brakes), potential rust in the body shell, and the integrity of classic electrical systems. Many vehicles are found with well-preserved original documentation, Italian first registrations, and service booklets—but always verify these during purchase.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Driven by its 1.8-litre twin-cam engine, the 1750 offers an eager throttle response and robust torque, making everyday and long-distance driving a pleasure. Its five-speed gearbox, classic rear-wheel drive setup, and four-wheel disc brakes contribute to balanced, secure handling and efficient braking performance. Early models had a distinctive engine sound and lighter feel, while Serie II examples introduced incremental updates. The brief offering of an automatic transmission was notably less successful due to performance compromises. - 1750 Berlina: Practical, spacious, revered for comfort and usability with period details preserved.

• 1750 GT Veloce: Coupe variant, agile, sportier lines, celebrated on the track and road.
• 1750 Spider Veloce: Convertible style by Pininfarina, strong American following.
• 1750 GTAm: Racing homologation model for touring car championships.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Styled initially by Bertone and further developed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the 1750 Berlina features a light, airy cabin with slim pillars and expansive glazing. Chrome accents, refined wooden trims, and classic seat and instrument layouts define the 1750’s cockpit. Spacious rear legroom results from the stretched wheelbase. Common options included distinct metallic paint finishes (Metallic Light Blue, Olive Green), interior combinations in leather or synthetic leather, and a host of period radio and audio additions—often retrofitted but in keeping with the car’s character. The sloping rear window and slim pillars contributed to a sense of transparency and improved summertime comfort.

Other Relevant Features

Vehicle authenticity is enhanced by original Italian documentation, matching set of keys, and often a preserved service booklet. H-registration ensures recognition as a historic vehicle. Most cars were originally supplied as Berlinas suited for both daily and long-distance use, with typical period wheels (often original, sometimes switched to sportier GTA styles) and typical tyre formats.

Summary

The Alfa Romeo 1750 offers classic car enthusiasts a sophisticated Italian saloon with authentic driving dynamics, balanced styling, and technical reliability. Its enduring value lies in its design pedigree, robust mechanics, and a characterful driving experience that makes the 1750 as relevant on today’s roads as in its era.