Rust-Free Survivor: 1984 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce

Alfa Romeos suffer an unfortunate reputation for rust vulnerability, and finding older examples with steel consumed by the dreaded tin worm is not unusual. However, this 1984 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce breaks that mold. It is a rock-solid survivor that runs and drives well. The seller states that while they have enjoyed owning this sweet Italian sports car, it is time for it to find a new home. Why not take a close look to determine whether this is the classic of your dreams?

The Alfa Romeo Spider enjoyed a long production life, rolling from the factory in various forms between 1966 and 1994. The company performed many upgrades during that run, with our feature car a Series 3 model that the original owner ordered in 1984. They elected to cloak its panels in Silver with a contrasting Black soft-top. The overall presentation is impressive, although it is worth noting that the seller doesn’t mention a history of restoration or repairs. The paint shines nicely, with no significant flaws or defects. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and the top appears to be in good order. Since this is a classic Alfa Romeo with decades of active service under its belt, we must inevitably address the question of rust. These little classics are prone to problems, but the news is nothing but positive. The exterior looks remarkably clean, and while the Spider was up on a lift for a recent service, the seller took the opportunity to thoroughly inspect the underside. They claim that not only is there no penetrating rust, but there is no surface corrosion that could cause future problems. The car sits on a new set of 15″ Rota wheels, and the seller includes the original 14″ Campagnolo wheels for those preferring a more “stock” appearance.

Alfa Romeo enjoys a well-earned reputation for producing some of the world’s great engines, and the one hiding under this Spider’s hood is no exception. The 2.0-liter fuel-injected DOHC four should produce 115hp and 120 ft/lbs of torque. That power feeds to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, and although the figures are relatively modest, the Spider’s curb weight of 2,548 lbs makes these classics lively performers that genuinely shine on twisting roads. Apart from the new wheels and tires, this gem recently underwent a complete service and received a new battery. The seller states that it runs and drives perfectly, with no mechanical faults or shortcomings. It is a turnkey proposition that can provide the winning bidder with immediate classic motoring fun.

This Spider’s interior is a mixed bag. It has avoided the UV deterioration and broken plastic that often plagues these classics. However, the seatcovers exhibit significant wear that will probably motivate the buyer to source replacements. Otherwise, the dash looks extremely nice, the gauges are crisp and clean, and there is no wear on the beautiful timber wheel. The factory radio has made way for a modern Pioneer CD stereo, which appears to be the only aftermarket addition. The seller states that the power windows can be slightly intermittent, and the air conditioning doesn’t blow cold. Neither problem is a deal-breaker and could be tackled at the buyer’s leisure.

This 1984 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce seems to tick many right boxes for enthusiasts seeking a small European sports car. Its lack of rust is excellent news, while its mechanical good health makes it a turnkey proposition for its new owner. It has a few minor issues, but their non-urgent nature will allow the winning bidder to address these as time and circumstances allow. The seller has listed the Spider here on eBay in Windsor, Connecticut. It has attracted plenty of attention, with forty-one bids pushing the price beyond the reserve to $5,500. That means that it remains firmly within the affordable category, and I would hardly blame you if you decide to pursue this gem further.