Description
For sale is pretty much a one of one machine. I know of perhaps two or three RHD original cars out there. They will never be for sale.
An object can only be original once and an unrestored RHD rust free Bertone 105 series Coupe can only be described as an utter masterpiece. This Alfa has a pretty unique history going right back to day one.
It was sold new in Cyprus on 13th December 1973 by the Nicosia dealer Demades Bros to a Mr Demetrios. S. Ghinis. Mr Ghinis treasured his Alfa until his death in 1999. His wife kept the car in the garage (where it was always kept) and refused to sell it until 2015 when it came to the UK and was fully recommissioned. It was not the first time this Alfa had been to the UK. Mr Ghinis used his Alfa as they were intended being a high speed grand tourer and used it to travel across Europe in its formative years. The original coupon books show the car was serviced in Greece, Italy and the UK in the first few years of its life.
Cyprus 105 series models are totally identical to UK spec. being RHD on twin 40's with a MPH/ KMH speedo. They even have a heated rear window. This bodyshell can only be described as exceptional. All panels are original and the underside is remarkable. Factory paint is everywhere with no corrosion. All the spot welds on the body are factory. No rust/ rot at all in any of the typical Bertone places. The sills, arches, valances etc etc are as new. Likewise the boot lid, doors, floors and front crossmember. The Mediterranean dry climate together with being garaged has really preserved this car. These Alfas started to fall to pieces in the UK by their first MOT and many needed welding to get a pass certificate. They were not suited to harsh salty damp British winters and most ended up being scrapped.
The interior is in crisp unrestored condition. It has its original carpets as well as an uncracked dash and its original Pioneer 8 track and matching speakers. The steering wheel is also excellent as are the door casings, seats, headliner and centre console. The car smells like an old Alfa inside as only an unrestored car can. It drives superb and tight. No rattles or vibration. These are pure drivers cars and reward a skilled pilot. The engine pulls hard as a two litre should and the gearbox has excellent synchros. The 'box is filled with Redline synthetic gear oil which really transforms and improves the excellent Alfa direct shift.
The car has covered only a genuine 73, 000 miles from new and comes with its original handbook, two sets of original keys, service coupon books and masses of paperwork going right back to the 70's including the Cypriot registration book.
This car is will be of interest to an Alfa enthusiast who really values and appreciates what originality represents. An unrestored properly maintained car cannot be compared to a rusted out UK machine that has been welded up, rebuilt, retrimmed etc with no history and even less provenance. This car has been cherished from day one and will be all but impossible to replace. I concede the car is not cheap but the best never is! These 105 Coupes are now being appreciated rightfully for what they are after being overlooked for so very long.
Many more photos are available if requested.
Viewing is available in London W11 in my underground car park. The plate is not included.
