At the 1967 Montreal Exposition, Alfa Romeo showcased two identical prototypes that would ultimately evolve into the revered Montreal. The design, masterfully penned by the visionary Marcello Gandini at Carrozzeria Bertone, carried the bold, avant-garde spirit that had made Gandini’s Lamborghini Miura a sensation. The influence of the Miura is evident in the Montreal’s wide, low stance, with its shark-like nose flowing effortlessly into sculpted fenders and gracefully pronounced shoulder haunches, culminating in a sleek, truncated tail. Its radical headlight “blinds” and stacked horizontal vents on the C-pillar imbued the design with a distinctly futuristic and aerodynamic appeal.

Strong customer interest following the Expo prompted Alfa Romeo to develop a production version, with the company’s engineers elevating the design by incorporating a V-8 engine borrowed from the firm’s Tipo 33 prototype race car. This advanced powerplant, featuring aluminum alloy construction, dual overhead camshafts, and dry-sump lubrication, delivered unprecedented performance for a production Alfa Romeo, with top speeds nearing 140 mph.

Per accompanying correspondence with Alfa Romeo, this Montreal was produced 4 October 1971 finished as it presents today in Rosso over a blend of a Nero vinyl and cloth interior with red carpeting. Following its completion at Alfa Romeo’s Arese plant, the Italian home-market example was sold new 5 January 1972 to Pietro Amaducci of Milan. An accompanying service manual confirms the car’s sale to Signor Amaducci and records several service entries into the mid-1970s.

The car is believed to have remained in the city of Milan until its acquisition by the consignor in 2006. Under his care, the V-8 was equipped with a quartet of Weber two-barrel carburetors for substantially improved performance and sound when compared to the original fuel-injection system. In addition to its service manual, it is also accompanied by an owner’s manual, maintenance manual, period advertising brochure, and correspondence with Alfa Romeo.

Exotic, rare, and unmistakably Italian, this Alfa Romeo Montreal, having spent its first three and a half decades maturing gracefully in its home country, awaits a passionate new Alfista to author its next chapter.