To Be OFFERED AT AUCTIONEstimate:
$225,000 - $250,000
- An excellent example of a pivotal Alfa Romeo model
- Equipped with numbers-matching Tipo 1308 2.0-liter
inline-four
- "Superleggera" coachwork by the famed Carrozzeria Touring of
Milan
- Fully restored to original build configuration and attractive
Verde Ortica color
- Eligible for the Mille Miglia and other top-level historic
tours
The Alfa Romeo 1900 was not merely the company's first all-new
design produced in the wake of World War II: With their
forward-looking styling and unibody construction, the 1900 and its
high-performance evolutions-like this 1954 1900C SS-represent a
pivotal step into the modern era of automotive engineering for the
acclaimed Italian operation.
This example, chassis number 01678, wears bodywork by Carrozzeria
Touring of Milan. One of several Italian firms to provide bodies
for the 1900, Touring pioneered the legendary lightweight
"Superleggera" construction system; fittingly, carrozzeria's name
and logo are proudly and prominently displayed on badging found
around the car. Completed on 22 March 1954, it was first sold on 9
July 1954 in Lugano, Switzerland.
The car's SS, or "Super Sprint," model designation refers to its
high-performance Tipo 1308 dual-overhead cam 2.0-liter inline-four
powerplant. It retains its original engine, number 00792, according
to the records of Alfa Romeo. With its enlarged displacement and
twin Solex carburetors, the Tipo 1308 improved upon the base 1900's
already respectable performance; its 115-hp stated output was
enough to propel the lightweight car to a reported top speed of 118
mph. It is paired here with a five-speed manual transmission with
column shift.
This car benefits from recent restoration work, undertaken by
Rome-based firm RizzaClassic, that returned the car to its original
configuration and appearance-including the factory-correct Verde
Ortica exterior paint color. This attractive dark metallic green is
complimented by an interior re-created to original patterns using
period-appropriate materials-in this case, tan leather and cloth
with tan wool carpets. Chrome and other brightwork was refinished
as well, again to a very high standard. Borrani wire wheels, here
fastened with two-ear knock-offs emblazoned with the Alfa Romeo
script, perfectly compliment the car's sporting nature.
Equal attention has been paid to the 1900C SS' mechanicals, with
original-style hoses, clamps and hardware used throughout the
engine bay. The car is equipped with a stainless steel exhaust
system.
With an odometer showing just 1,608 km (~1,000 miles) since its
restoration, this 1954 Alfa Romeo 1900C SS by Touring is an
excellent candidate for show-though it has also been mechanically
prepared for, and is eligible for entry in, prestigious vintage
rallies and tours, including the Mille Miglia. The car is
accompanied by historical files, photographic documentation of its
restoration, records detailing recent maintenance, and historical
research from Alfa Romeo and FCA. To view this car and others
currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo20.