THE ALFA GIULIETTA SPRINT
'The Alfa, in a few words then, is a small car with a rev-happy dohc engine that can carry two people from point A to point B over all types of roads quicker than most cars twice its size. It does this not with blinding speed but with a wonderful combination of roadholding, compact size and sheer willingness.' – Car & Driver on the Giulietta Sprint.
With the introduction of the Bertone-styled Giulietta Sprint in 1954, Alfa Romeo established the 'small car, big performance' formula that would characterise the Milanese marque's finest offerings from then on. Alfa's classic twin-cam four was downsized to 1,290ccc for the 750-Series Giulietta, gaining an alloy cylinder block in the process. The Sprint coupé was soon joined by Berlina and Spider versions, the latter styled by Pinin Farina and built on a slightly shorter wheelbase. The Giulietta family's success surprised even Alfa themselves; production targets were revised upwards and to satisfy demands for increased performance, upgraded Veloce versions of the Sprint and Spider were introduced. The combination of a rev-happy engine, fine-handling, responsive chassis and excellent brakes make the Giulietta Sprint a driver's car par excellence and explains why these stylish Alfa Romeos continue to attract the discerning enthusiast today.
THIS ALFA GIULIETTA SPRINT
This 750-Series Giulietta Sprint was sold new in the USA and first owned by one W Y Humphreys of Dallas, Texas. Costing $1,780 new, the Alfa was delivered on 12th February 1958 having been manufactured in July 1957. Some 28 years ago the car was imported into Holland from the USA and sold to a Belgian collector. The latter had the car meticulously restored by Charles Wijnands, the interior being restored at the same time by Wijnands' wife. Once finished, the Giulietta was returned by trailer to the Belgian collector and kept garaged during his ownership. It was declared at the Belgian customs in 1992.
In 2016 the car resurfaced after a long period off the road following its restoration. It was still in beautiful condition throughout and did not need any further attention apart from, of course, re-commissioning after having stood for a long time. The car has benefited from a service, with the oil and brake fluid changed, and the old fuel drained and replaced. Clearly not driven since its restoration, the Giulietta is presented in lovely condition today. Offered with Belgian papers, it is a desirable early '1st series' model (with the small rear lights) and is Mille Miglia eligible. Interest in these small Alfas has grown markedly in recent years, and this rare and beautiful example is an opportunity not to be missed.