Beautifully restored coachbuilt Alfa. Mille Miglia eligible!
In 1954, Alfa Romeo launched the 2nd series (aka Tipo 1308) of the elegant 1900 CSS with full aluminium body from Touring. It was again built following the patented Superleggera construction, but the changes were recognisable at first glance. The air intakes with integrated foglights and indicators now had aluminium surrounds, similar to the previously presented Pinin Farina coupé. The rear side windows and rear window were bigger, to increase allround visibility and to create a more stylish look with the very slim body pillars. The technical changes were similarly succesful, with an enlarged engine capacity of 1975 ccm achieved with an increased bore. Compression ratio was increased to 8:1, and two Solex downdraught carburettors were fitted. The result was a very healthy 115 bhp. The gearbox, although still with column shift, now had a fifth gear, and allowed a top speed of 188 km/h.
This example is a 1954 car. It went to a 2-years restoration between 2010 and 2012, and retained its original colour of beautiful Verde Seta. The interior is finished in sage green with beige leather, and looks absolutely stunning in combination with the dark green exterior. The column gearshift is easy to operate, and is correct as it left the factory. The matching nrs engine has good oil pressure and offers good performance. The Alfa Romeo is fitted with correct and expensive Borrani wire wheels, in combination with new Michelin X tyres. With a total production number of only 540 CSS Touring 2nd series versions, this is a very rare car and one of the last proper coachbuilt Alfa Romeo’s. The car is ready for any event, and is also eligible for the Mille Miglia.
A coachbuilt Alfa Romeo CSS with Touring body does come rarely on the market, and is quite sought after as it is eligible for almost every historical event. Better still, this beautiful example may be your entry ticket for the MM at an acceptable price level. Being the proud owner of a very attracitve and much appreciated Alfa Romeo is a childhood dream of many people, so this is an opportunity which can’t be missed!
Report by albionmotorcars.com
