About the Alfa Romeo Spider
Dustin H purchased this Alfa Romeo Spider used for $42,000 (including all on-road costs) in 2020. Dustin H would buy this car again because: “It makes getting anywhere an experience and it makes people smile, wave, and feel the need to give me a thumbs up. My kids love the car and our family life would be very different without it as it would mean no arguments about who gets to go in the passenger seat whenever it leaves the garage. “
How reliable has your car been? Tell us about any issues.
Quite reliable so far in my ownership but let’s face it, it is a car from the 1970s so it might not start next time I go to the garage which will cause swear words – but then no doubt I’ll lavish it with hours of attention, which is likely what it wants anyway.
What do you think of the ownership experience with your car?
It is amazing to own and treasure such a beautiful car that not only puts a smile on my face every time I drive it but also onto whoever else is in the car and of many who see it drive past especially young kids to whom it stands out in a sea of modern SUVs and twin cabs that now dominate our roads.
It is worth the price of admission just to see the kids point and smile when driving by.
The cost of ownership… well that can be high for any old car but the Alfa mechanicals are actually more robust than they are given credit for and we have not had to do any bodywork to cut out rust (yet).
Are you happy with the price and features of your car?
I was unsure at first but the price now seems worth every cent in hindsight.
I am super happy with the “induce happiness” feature. The other key features are the remote boot open lever, tachometer, and cigarette lighter are all ok I guess.
What do you think of the performance and economy of your car?
Being based on the Alfa 105 platform the car could be made to perform quite well but is that what it is about I often wonder.
With roof down on a nice day the performance is related to the sound and is more than adequate, especially given it is probably a negative five ANCAP star rating and about as safe as riding a motorcycle in shorts and a t-shirt.
I have never measured its fuel use and do not plan to.
What do you think of the technology in your car?
The double overhead cams and disc brakes are amazing… well they were at launch anyway.
The incorrect period CD player I am generally okay with and the rest of the “technology” is highlighted above in the features area which is oh-so-little which is the perfect antidote to the extremely high-technology new cars.
I am sure my wife would like it to have power steering.
What do you think of the ride comfort and handling of your car?
The ride comfort is good although the seats could do with a new bases which would help. Handling is good for a ’70s convertible but it does have the usual shake and lack of rigidity as you would expect from an old convertible.