Alfa Romeo’s long-lived 6C model made its debut in 1925. It was designed by the brilliant engineer Vittorio Jano and first appeared with 1,487 cubic centimetres of displacement and a single overhead camshaft. Twin cams were introduced in 1928, and they were joined by a 1,750-cubic centimetre sibling a year later. That year, the 6C 1750 won every racing event it entered. A 1,900-cubic centimetre version came in 1933, followed by the 6C 2300 the next year. The final variant, the 2500, of which this car is an excellent example, was introduced in 1938, and it remained in production until 1952.

As Alfa’s post-war cars followed pre-war practices, so did the coachwork of Turin’s Pinin Farina, although the Art Deco obsession somewhat faded. Thus, post-war bodies omitted much of the brightwork, which allowed for their handsome lines to make their own statement. Such is the nature of this beautiful 6C 2500, which is the most desirable short-wheelbase model with the most powerful engine, known as the SS, or Super Sport. One of the most expensive cars of its time, it was a model whose clientele included numerous celebrity luminaries—and this car was certainly no exception to that rule.

THE PRINCE ALY KHAN 6C 2500 SS

While a “who’s who” of world society enjoyed the 6C 2500 in its many variants, undoubtedly the most famous buyer was Prince Ali Salman Aga Khan, better known in the world tabloid press as Aly Khan. Son of the leader of the Ismaili Muslims—a man who received his literal weight in gold and gems from followers once a year—Aly Khan spent his life spending his family’s vast wealth, enjoying a jet-setting lifestyle, and dating the world’s most beautiful women. In fact, he was one of the most famous international celebrities and playboys of his time.

According to Angelo Tito Anselmi’s book on the 6C 2500, the car offered here, chassis number 915.766, is that which was purchased new by Prince Aly Khan. It was registered in Como, under his name, as CO 30455 on 31 October 1950, and delivered on 4 December. At the time, Prince Aly Khan was married to the famed American actress and sex symbol Rita Hayworth, for whom he purchased a second 6C 2500 SS. He retained his car until their divorce, at which point it was sold to Tessiture Gildo Guenzoni S.r.l. on 20 February 1953. It was subsequently re-registered on 6 March 1953 as VA 36245.

In September 1956, the car passed to Umberto Torreta, then in November of that year, to Michele Verola, for whom it was re-registered in Milano. It eventually made its way to the United States, where in 1985 it was owned by Hobart Phelps of Sacramento, California, and subsequently by Knute Kolmann of San Carlos, California. In 1991, it was returned to Italy by Claude Ferioli and joined the current Italian-based owner’s collection in 2004.

Recipient of a four-year restoration to original condition and only seldom driven since, the car is finished in black with a beautiful scarlet leather interior and matching soft top, as well as painted wire wheels shod in blackwall tyres, which give it an exceptionally sporting and appropriately masculine appearance. It has been mechanically sorted prior to the sale and is confirmed to be a wonderful driver by an RM Sotheby’s specialist. He notes the quality of the engine work, panel fit, and finishes inside and out, with even the soft top working perfectly.

Similar to Rudolph Valentino Isotta Fraschinis and Bill Harrah Ferraris, it seems that almost every other 6C 2500 Super Sport brought to market claims Prince Aly Khan’s ownership. The car offered here is the real thing, enjoyed by one of the most famous motorists and socialites of its era, and arguably one of the most well-known men to have enjoyed the greatest Alfa Romeo of the early post-war era. Furthermore, the car is accompanied by a copy of the registration to Prince Aly Khan, noting the original number plate and chassis number as well as a collection of restoration photos and import documentation. It is a spectacular automobile and one deserving of discerning ownership.