The owner of this 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider claims that it is a solid car and that it would make a great restoration project. With Alfas being a truly rewarding car to drive, if this one is solid, then the restored car should be a pleasure to own and drive. It is located in Plainfield, Indiana, and is being sold with a clear title. If you’ve always wanted an Alfa, you will find it listed for sale here on eBay.
The Spider really doesn’t look that bad, and there are really only two visible rust spots on the car. Of course, being an Alfa, it will require a full check to ensure that there are no further rust problems lurking in the dark depths, as these can really cripple these cars. The soft-top is also beyond saving, so a new one will need to be sourced.
While to the original 2.0l 4-cylinder engine and 5-speed transmission are both in place, the engine has not been started in more than 2 years, and the car hasn’t actually been driven in 20 years. These engines are relatively bullet-proof, but the car will need a thorough check before it will hit the road again.
The interior is quite tatty in places, with a crack in the dash pad, at least one door trim missing, and the carpet and seat covers will need replacing. The bundle of wires hanging down under the dash, just waiting to tangle around the driver’s feet is also quite a common sight. I’ve also noticed that the original radio is gone, and an aftermarket CD player has been fitted instead.
I really hope that this Spider is a solid car, as so many of them have succumbed to major rust issues. If this one is solid, then it really would make a great project. The other thing to consider very carefully is the price. Due to the rapidly diminishing numbers of these Spiders that are on our roads today, it is really hard to get a nice, clean example for under $15,000, and prices can climb as high as $23,000. The owner of this Alfa has set a BIN price of $3,500 but has left the option to make an offer. If the car is solid, then it could potentially be a very good investment.
Considering that I just bought a rust-free 1989 Spider Veloce that is running, licensed, insured, and a driver for $2500, this price is far too high. My seats are a bit tattered (not as bad as the instance car) and my top needs replacing (but doesn’t leak), but I drove it home at speed and it felt great, and I continue to drive it regularly. Sure it needs a few items to make it really nice, but still, for $2500 and 102K miles I’m thrilled. I’ve always wanted one of these (and a Fiat 124 Spyder too) with its strong TOHC chain-driven engine. Fun car for sure.
Overpriced
This is another car on my list of “would love to have one”. But, with all of the comments here regarding hidden rust issues, I’d need to buy one that I can put my hands on.
There were a couple that did not sell at an auction that I got to see up close. Not sure what they were bid to, but both looked really nice. There was a final model year one that I had never seen before, and although it did not have the “classic” look, it was still an attractive car.
Someone should buy this and give to Dustin Hoffman! No need to fix, just put in his garage to look at. It’s a thrill to see him motoring thru the Goleta Tunnel, going south to get north to Oakland.
If you are over 5’10 forget about getting behind the wheel. Fell in love with one once, if only Italians weren’t that short.
I thought the “Graduate” was a boat tail?
Here’s to you Mrs. Robinson………………………………….