Unveiling the Rare Gem: 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Series V Gran Sport
The automotive world is no stranger to legends, but few evoke the same passion and reverence as the 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Series V Gran Sport. A stunning marriage of performance, design, and history, the Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Birth of a Legacy
The Alfa Romeo 6C lineage has its roots deep in the competitive 1920s racing scene. Hired by Nicola Romeo, engineer Vittorio Jano produced the P2 in 1923, a car that would herald the beginning of Alfa's grand racing legacy. Jano's vision for a production chassis yielded an impressive lineup of six-cylinder (6C) cars from 1927 to 1933, culminating in models that would not only dominate the race tracks but also find favor among affluent buyers.
Among the various models, the 1750 Super Sport and Gran Sport stood tall. Out of the 3,514 units ever manufactured, only 309 of the exquisite 6C 1750 variants were crafted, each adorned with custom bodies from Europe’s finest carrozzerie. These cars were masterpieces not only in their engineering but also in their aesthetic appeal.
Performance that Astonished
Lightweight and nimble, the supercharged 6C models became the darlings of the racing circuits, outpacing competitors such as Bugatti and Maserati. These cars weren't merely built for show; they dominated events including the illustrious Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Spa. Their exceptional roadholding and reliable power made them formidable champions, often clinching victories against larger-displacement rivals.
For enthusiasts, the 6C 1750 represents a perfect blend of performance and elegance, offering a glimpse into an era when cars were more than simple transportation; they were expressions of art and engineering.
Introducing Chassis 10814349
Among this exclusive lineage lies the specific example of Chassis 10814349, manufactured for the 1931 model year. With its history tracing back to February 1934, this beauty made its way to Switzerland, where it underwent repairs after some body damage. Although the past remains cloudy, what we know is this 6C’s original substructure has endured through decades.
Over the years, the car has gained a reputation not just as a collector's item but as a well-preserved piece of history, reflecting the peak of Alfa Romeo's engineering prowess.
Features that Stand Out
- One-of-a-Kind 6C 1750 Gran Sport with matching engine and chassis numbers
- Ownership history spans over five decades within a single family
- Underwent extensive restoration by renowned experts, ensuring every detail was meticulously taken care of
- Award-winning vehicle, featuring numerous accolades from prestigious automotive events
- Competitor-perfect for iconic events like the Mille Miglia and luxury car festivals
Technical Specifications
- Engine: 1,752 CC DOHC Inline 6-Cylinder
- Supercharged via Roots-type mechanism
- 135 BHP at 4,400 RPM
- Transmission: 4-Speed Manual Gearbox
- 4-Wheel Mechanical Drum Brakes
- Suspension: Front – Solid-Axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs; Rear – Live-axle setup
A Tale of Restoration
The exquisite restoration of this Alfa Romeo was entrusted to C. Cook Enterprises in 1993. Their painstaking attention to detail restored the Zagato Spider coachwork while remaining true to its historical accuracy. Every component, from the traditional color to the crackle finish on the dashboard, was recreated with precision.
It debuted at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®, taking home the Best in Class award, and continued to grace other prestigious events, impressing judges across the board. A highlight was at the exclusive Louis Vuitton Classic, where it was awarded Best of Show, affirming its place among the world's finest automotive creations.
Current Chapter
This Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 has seen invigorating usage following a major overhaul by the renowned Jim Stokes Workshops in Hampshire. In 2023, it participated in the celebrated Alfa Romeo 8C tour through Bavaria, where it outperformed multiple contemporary models, a testament to the timeless engineering that Alfa Romeo is known for.
The Opportunity
With a captivating history and immaculate restoration, the 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Series V Gran Sport is now offered for acquisition. Gooding & Company is thrilled to present this masterpiece, inviting collectors and car enthusiasts to embrace the opportunity to own a piece of automotive history.
Provenance and Ownership
- Various notable owners, including classic car circuit legends and restoration experts
- Last acquired in 2017 with a documented lineage that adds to its significance
For those who crave to own this remarkable automobile and experience firsthand the beauty and performance of the Alfa Romeo 6C 1750, opportunities like this are rare. This isn't merely a classic car; it's a storied investment that promises both prestige and excitement.