For Sale at Auction: 1959 Alfa Romeo 2000 in Carmel, California

Chassis No. AR1020400113
Engine No. AR0020400069
Body No. 5372

In the aftermath of World War II, Alfa Romeo faced a difficult climb back toward its prewar prominence. Allied bombing had devastated its Portello works in Milan, and the market for high-end, coach-built sports cars was small. Against those headwinds, the firm introduced a new flagship at the 1957 Turin Motor Show, the Tipo 102, better known as the 2000, with series production beginning the following year. At its heart sat an enlarged 1,975 cc version of the 1900's iron-block, twin-cam four-cylinder engine, producing 105 horsepower in standard Berlina form.

Introduced in 1958, the Spider wore elegant coachwork by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan and received an uprated, higher-compression unit fed by twin sidedraft Solex 44 PHH carburetors, raising output to 115 horsepower. A refined and exclusive grand tourer in its day, the 2000 Spider was built in limited numbers, with fewer than 3,500 completed by the end of production in 1962. They are now prized for their handsome Touring lines, their eager twin-cam character, and their rarity; these "iron block" Tipo 102 Spiders rank among the most sought-after open Alfa Romeos of the era.

According to the production registers held in the Centro Documentazione Alfa Romeo, this Spider was specified in Grigio Biacca. The Certificate of Origin shows the car completed production on 6 February 1959 and was delivered on 3 March of that year, dispatched new to the United States. The certificate also confirms that the Spider still retains its original matching-numbers engine today.

It presents beautifully today, having covered only 306 miles since the completion of its restoration at cataloging. It is finished in a striking bright red over a black leather interior, a classic and timeless combination that suits the Touring lines exceptionally well. A black folding convertible top is neatly stored beneath the tonneau cover when not in use. It is furnished with a tool kit and a folder of invoices. With its fresh presentation, minimal post-restoration mileage, and the timeless appeal of Touring's design, it represents an inviting opportunity to acquire one of the most coveted four-cylinder Alfa Romeos of its generation.