The 1966 Geneva Motor Show saw the debut of the Alfa Romeo Duetto Spider, which replaced the existing 101 Series Giulia Spider. The Duetto's Pininfarina-designed body was inspired by a styling exercise on a 3.0 litre Disco Volante chassis seen at Geneva in 1959, and sported an extremely attractive and individual line. The mechanical components were largely unaltered from those of the Giulia, with a 1300cc or 1600cc four cylinder all alloy double overhead cam engine, mated to a slick 5-speed gearbox and driving through the rear wheels. Disc brakes were fitted all around and the whole package provided the new model with excellent reliability and superb performance for a car of its size. The traditional Alfa qualities of lightness, agility and fine handling remained, ensuring that the Duetto was as popular and sought-after as its predecessor had been. Real worldwide success came when a Duetto featured as Dustin Hoffman's transport in the cult movie classic "The Graduate."
The model soon began an inevitable evolution, firstly with the adoption of the 1750 engine and then with a styling revision which saw the tail change from a gently sloping form to an abrubtly truncated Kamm tail. Later still a two liter engine with a longer stroke, providing slightly more power and significantly more torque, was installed. This was the ultimate version of this classic car, offering equally high levels of performance, fun, chic and good looks.
The example on offer is the property of Hans Durst, ex Swiss Olympian and noted collector. It has been used and maintained on a regular basis, clocking up 109,000 km, and is generally in good condition, with a new tan leather interior and new top.
{analysis} The car pictured sold for $4,929 at Coys' auction at the Klausenrennen Hillclimb in Switzerland on September 26, 1998. {/analysis}