Penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro at Bertone, the 105s clean and distinctive design made it one of the most attractive small coupes of the 1960s and 70s and the earlier Stepnose cars were the first of that body shape and seen as the most desirable.
As confirmed by Alfa Romeo our example is an RHD Stepnose car delivered in 1969 to London, UK. It still wears it original delivery colour of AR209 Musk green.
This car has had an engine change at some point to a later 1750 unit providing a useful increase in power and torque over the original. Not much is known about its earlier history, however we know it was in Australia from 1997 and with the 1750 motor in place, and we have a continuous history from that point. The car has always been local to Brisbane in QLD and has had 5 owners in that time. A decent folder of history and invoices accompanies the car with evidence of much expenditure over the last 25 years with little use during that time. The mileage in 2008 was 49,410, in 2012 it was 52,540 and it currently reads just 53,707.
Much of this work was focussed on improving performance and handling of the car and that certainly translates to a rewarding experience when driving it.
The current owner bought the car around 3 years ago and now needs to part with it due to a change in personal circumstances. During his ownership he has undertaken an extensive amount of work resulting in a car that is a blast to drive and looks the part too.
Recent work includes, new wiring loom, updated interior, new battery, reconditioned gearbox, rebuilt steering box, heavy duty Alfaholics sway bar, Aluminium radiator, new Alternator and oil cooler along with rebuilt Weber carbs. The engine benefits from a new crankshaft, bearings and general refresh.
To aid steering and handling the car has adjustable upper control arms, rose jointed drop links, lowered suspension with yellow Konis and fast road springs. It is also fitted with a limited slip diff and in addition the rear upper spring mounts have been reinforced. The gearbox is excellent and a delight to use.
Turn the key and the engine fires up to a familiar Alfa growl. Out on the open road this car is just superb with the steering and braking being pin sharp. The induction noise from the race trumpets is intoxicating and only adds to the on-road experience.
The paint although perfectly presentable from a distance, on close inspection shows areas of blistering due to moisture being in the primer when the topcoats were applied. Areas to the front and rear are fine and the roof too however patches of this blistering are present elsewhere. On the turret there are 2 small dents, however these might be able to be pulled out.
The GTA style wheels are from Campagnolo in Italy and are unmarked and like new. The tyres are just fitted and overall, they sit at the right height and look purposeful.
Once inside you are greeted by a new GTA style Hellebore steering wheel which looks superb. The dash has a new cover, and the classic gauges present very well. An interior from a later Series One 1750 GTV has been fitted to the car which includes the rare and desirable flying buttress seats. They show no signs of rips or tears, and the tan colour works well with the Musk green exterior.
Although the paint isnt perfect, this is a sorted car and a drivers delight which begs to be taken out in the hills for a good blast. The body is solid, and it looks wonderful on the GTA wheels and overall, there is a lot to like about this car.
All the stainless steel brightwork is in good order and the car is freshly serviced and ready for its new owner to enjoy.