Alfa Romeo Montreal
A Silver Arrow, Italian style. And that’s where the comparison with a certain German "competitor" ends. Because this beautiful, originally Dutch (delivered by Sam van Lingen) Montreal from April 1973 is an Alfa Romeo of the purest kind. The looks are incredibly fine, but technically the Alfa makes a big difference compared to others: it’s been a long time since we drove such a smooth riding Montreal!
History & condition
To give you an idea of the exclusive character of the Alfa Montreal: 47 years ago, one new Montreal cost more than 10 "regular" cars. Does that make this classic relatively low-priced? Once you understand what it’s about, it definitely does. Because this brings you the classic Alfa feeling in a unique way. No wonder Fred van Lingen (brother of know Dutch Alfa specialist Sam van Lingen) brought the car back to the Netherlands in 1987, after having a Belgian adventure for some years. Next the Montreal was sold to a famous Dutch racing driver who had a special bond with Alfa Romeo: Bob van der Sluis.
To get the Montreal in its current condition, some restoration work had to be done. In the 90s, bodywork, interior and engine were restored, overhauled or revised. Sam van Lingen is responsible for the engine revision, which means we’re missing the matching numbers. Something we don’t miss though, is the great driving experience. That’s exactly why we needed to transfer her from the Porsche Centre to Prins Classics!
In 2010 Bob van der Sluis died because of cancer. With this the racing world lost a legend. The Montreal remained within the family for years, but saw more dust than asphalt. A new owner was found in 2014. This particular man is responsible for a more recent technical makeover, which makes the Alfa drive as sublime as it does now. To ensure that techique, sound and looks are in perfect harmony, we installed an original exhaust (instead of the non-original sports exhaust) and we also brought the interior and exterior back to a perfect shape.
Interior & exterior
You could almost recognize a Bertone design in the dark. Especially in this case. At the drafting table was Marcello Gandini, known for the Lancia Stratos and a whole range of Lamborghinis – from Miura to Countach and Diablo. All exotics, which makes it a unique list. The Montreal certainly fits in, but is much more elegant. The silver Argento Alfa lacquer helps to highlight the many characteristic details thanks to a beautiful contrast. Of course we refer to the body-colored headlight covers, the air inlets in the C-pillar and integrated "NACA" air duct in the hood. But there’s also plenty to see for the driver and passenger: the seats have been reupholstered and the Montreal has lots of original elements. Not new enough to win Concours d’Elegance, but pretty enough to fully enjoy it.
Technique
You can also fully enjoy the powertrain. Engine and transmission feel extremely smooth. The 2.6 liter V8 is mounted in the front of the Montreal, in contrast to the mid-engined prototype. Designer Gandini used this as an excuse to leave the air slots right next to the doors, which originally served as cooling. This unique style characteristic helps reminding us of this fun fact every day. And we don’t mind at all… The only question is: what memories will you have of this beautiful Montreal in the future?
Kind regards,
team Prins
