Car Number 2, where are you?

The search for the elusive under-priced 1962 Porsche 356b Notchback continues. Seeing as how I have no money for the car, and no where to park it, that's just as well. The journey is more fun than the destination, or so I'll believe until I'm cruising the PCH in my blue '62 Notch.

In the meantime, I believe I've found Car Number 2: a back-up car for when I've exhausted that week's Porsche classified ads, or when I lose all hope of finding Car Number 1.

I've posted about it before: 1954-59 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint. With classic Italian styling by Bertone, this was the first major production car by Alfa Romeo. Story goes, a bunch of Alfistis were sitting around a bar in Italy, thinking of their company's next move, when a guy walks up and jokes, "What, 5 Romeos and no Giulietta?" (Basically, the literati equivalent of calling it a "sausage fest.") In response, the Alfa guys dreamed up this beauty. In fact, Bertone's website claims that it was this body design that launched their company into the big leagues.

It's easy to see why: simple 2+2 design, nice curves, small tail fins, just enough chrome. With a front-mounted 1290cc four-cylinder engine, it's capable of 80 bhp, besting the 356 in power if not in top speed or handling.

Also attractive to me is the sticker price: whereas classic Porsches are currently over-priced, these classic Alfa Romeos are surprisingly under-priced. This may be explained by the large number of Giuliettas produced (40,000+), and the wide range of body styles. The "Spyder" convertible is a hot commodity, and the "Veloce" is this same car, but with some aluminum body panels to reduce weight. The desirability of these versions means a lower price for the normal "Sprint."

Check out this 1955 Giulietta, which sold for $23,000 recently. It's in perfect condition for me: straight, no rust, runs well but hasn't been restored. If it were 1/2 as nice at 1/2 the price, I'd forsake my Porsche dreams and become an Alfisti already.

The joke may, however, be on me. The huge demand for the Porsche 356 means readily available spare parts, how-to books, knowledgable mechanics and the awe-inspiring assistance and comraderie available at the 356 Registry. Becoming an Alfa Romeo owner probably means becoming close friends with my local classic import specialist, a thought that sends shivers down the spine of my wallet.

Still, it's a 50s car, so the mechanicals can't be that difficult to figure out myself. After some basic sorting and then consistent TLC, I'm sure it could provide years of happiness. Plus, it's got a useable trunk!

It's hard to argue with an Italian racecar. Especially one that'll fit (future) kids. As always, if you have one for sale, please contact me!

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UPDATE:

Check out this amazing video of an early-model Giulietta in action! Also: Barbara says she likes the Alfa over the 356 ... maybe that's a green light?