Launched in 1957, the Sprint Speciale was a stunning design unmistakably derived from the otherworldly Berlina Aerodinamica Tecnica, or B.A.T., show cars created by Carrozzeria Bertone in the mid-1950s. Those aerodynamic studies led to what seemed to be a perfect solution to a competition version of the Bertone-bodied Giulietta Sprint Veloce. With its extremely low drag coefficient of 0.29, it was aimed at competition, and a limited number were produced to meet FIA homologation rules. The Speciale utilised lightweight construction that had been built on the chassis of the popular Giulietta Spider, and it came with a domed roofline and gracefully peaked fenders.

The Giulietta’s sturdy 1,300-cubic centimetre, all-alloy, four-cylinder engine provided enough power to push the svelte two-seater coupé to almost 125 mph, which was considerably more than its conventionally bodied Sprint coupé and spider siblings could achieve. The unique plastic air deflector mounted ahead of the windscreen, which was more commonly seen on competition cars of the era, added to the car’s racy flavour. When the 1,570-cubic centimetre twin-cam engine was introduced with the 101-series Giulia, the Sprint Speciale received both the powerplant and the new name.

The example offered here is from the first year of Giulia SS production. It was built on 1 October 1963 and finished in the traditional Alfa Romeo red. Just six days later, on the 7th, it was sold to the Alfa Romeo dealer in Brussels, Belgium. The Alfa is believed to have resided in Belgium for the majority of its subsequent life when it was discovered by the previous owner in Belgium in 2006. Though finished in blue with a white nose and stripe, the original colour was evident beneath the trim pieces as well as in the interior. Acquired by the current consignor in 2013, the Giulia SS was then subject to a comprehensive restoration beginning in 2014 and recently completed. Restored to its original colour and trimmed with a matching red carpeting and two-tone red and white seats, the Alfa has also been fitted with a correct-type 1600 engine. Further photos of the car as discovered, as well as its restoration, are available on file.

Ready to be driven and enjoyed, this Sprint Speciale offers the rare opportunity to acquire a rapidly appreciating example of one of Bertone’s most famous road-going designs.