Description
The Alfa Romeo 2600, produced between 1962 and 1968, represents the marque’s last great saloon and coupé to adopt an inline six with dual overhead camshafts, faithful to the mechanical tradition that built Alfa Romeo’s reputation. Offered in several versions – Berlina, Sprint and Spider – it embodied the refinement, power and elegance of the Milanese firm at the start of the sixties. The second series, introduced from 1964, benefited from various improvements: engine optimisation, four-wheel disc brakes, firmer suspension, as well as subtle aesthetic adjustments. Produced in limited numbers, it was aimed primarily at connoisseurs, enticed by its 2, 584 cm³ inline six developing 145 hp at 5, 900 rpm, paired with a five-speed manual and capable of reaching 200 km/ h in sovereign comfort.
The example presented here belongs to this second series. Its first owner is said to have been engineer Carlo Chiti, an iconic figure of Italian motorsport and craftsman of Alfa Romeo’s competition engines. It was he who allegedly replaced the original Solex carburettors with Weber units equipped with individual filters, enhancing the engine’s breathing and liveliness. Subsequently, the car was owned by Ettore Delli Carri, a veterinarian and presenter of the Italian wildlife programme “Il Giardino Straordinario”, broadcast on Italian television. It was he who began the procedures to register the car with ASI (Automotoclub Storico Italiano).
The car arrived in Belgium in November 2003, after a road trip from the north of Italy. On arrival, the head gasket was replaced, the car having stood for several years. The odometer then showed 4, 500 km, corresponding to the distance travelled since the engine was completely rebuilt by the previous owner. Since then, around 20, 000 km have been covered without the slightest trouble in twenty-two years of use. The engine today totals 25, 000 km and runs perfectly, aided by an electronic ignition of type 1-2-3 ensuring increased reliability.
The interior was entirely refitted at the end of 2020, including the upholstery and carpets, and remains in as-new condition. The Michelin X tyres, fitted in 2023, show barely 1, 000 km of use. The complete exhaust system, made in stainless steel by Freddy Bantuelle from the collector, offers a noble yet hushed tone, in perfect harmony with the nobility of the six-cylinder. The original tool kit is still present, though partly incomplete and requiring restoration. This is also the example that was the subject of an article in the Italian magazine Ruote Classiche in 1988, of which a photocopy accompanies the vehicle.
