1990 Alfa Romeo Spider 1600 S3 |

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1990 Alfa Romeo Spider 1600 S3

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£8,480

Mileage~85,134 KMs On Clock
TransmissionManual
Engine1.6L
LocationEvesham

SOLD

1990 Alfa Romeo Spider 1600 S3

I WANT ONE

Introduction

Glyn Parry

Professional Consigner

Italian flair, handsome looks and beautiful Pininfarina styling - an original Alfa import example with plenty to offer its next keeper.

The Alfa Romeo Spider was produced from 1966 to 1993, remaining in production for almost three decades with only minor aesthetic and mechanical changes over this time. In its time, four distinct models were produced. The first three series were assembled by Pininfarina, Italian designers and coach builders extraordinaire, at their Grugliasco facility.

What made these cars so very special was the beautifully balanced rear-wheel drive chassis, range of lively twin-cam engines and the charming and comfortable interiors. As the Spider passed from generation to generation, the cars increasingly became more refined and sophisticated. The Series 3 had the longest production run, coming close to leaving its teenage years behind with styling updates including the fitment of black rubber bumpers front and rear.

Presented in a left hand drive setup, this example has been imported from Italy to Sea Crest garage in Dover with the current keeper having ownership of the Spider for the last ~30 years. The Spider benefits from being largely original, except for its period relevant alloy wheels upgraded in 1993. The car has had servicing and regular usage in its UK ownership and also is complete with its hard top optional cover as well as a soft top, which has been replaced in recent years.

This listing was written from information supplied by Glyn after meeting Alex the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

With a rich history of Alfa Romeo ownership, getting the Spider was a natural choice for the current owner.

Alexander is very much, 'an Alfa guy' having owned a Junior GT as his first car. As a firm fan of classic Alfas, the Spider was high on Alex's wishlist and when this import model came onto the market, he was quick to snap it up.

As a self confessed petrol-head, the current owner is all about that driving experience, Alexander said, "For me its all about how the car feels on the road, and driving is about enjoying the experience of a great car on the open road. Having driven the car to Rome over my ownership, it's a car that I've loved to drive and have had many great journeys travelled in".

With the car being a lower, more sporty setup, Alex lets us know that, "I do prefer the older style cars but where I need a little more support for my body, I've chosen to be a bit more practical, so unfortunately, this one has to go".

Should there be any questions required, Alexander would be happy to answer these in the section below.

Alexander

Vehicle Owner

Alexander saved £1,440* when they
sold their Alfa Romeo with us.

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EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

The straight cut lines of the Alfa's bodywork is some of Pininfarina's finest styling work - as iconic sports cars go, the Spider is up there with the best.

Wheels and Tyres

The Spider is equipped with a set of 14" after-market FondMetal wheels upgraded by the current owner in May 1993, these are in great condition with very few marks noted. Although these aren't the original genuine versions, these were period relevant, having been originally supplied with steel wheels and didn't look out of place.

Please note, on the wheels, there are only two centre caps fitted to the car where the condition of the current caps showed with signs of wear. There are a full set of Alfa Romeo centre caps provided as part of the final sale, although these are not the right size for installation and would need to be adapted to fit as these are too small.

The Alfa is supplied with a set of Avon CR338 tyres on three corners of the car, with a spec of 185/70. The odd tyre out was an Avon ZT7. Both front and rear tyres are matched with the same tread spec.

The condition of tyres looks great overall with no obvious cracking or major signs of wear. Please take a look at the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior of this Alfa and a closer look at the wheels and tyres.

Bodywork

Around the car, the shut lines and panel gaps look good and we could see no visible distortion to the panels. Both doors and boot sections open and close well.

Overall the car shows with very few signs of exterior issues, there were a few signs of surface corrosion underneath the car, but nothing that was overly concerning.

We did spot a few scuffs and dings on the panelling. There is a slight ding with a scratch on the nearside rear quarter panel that we observed looking around the exterior which we've also noted on our exterior review video.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The paint coverage is good across the car. The red paint coat shows with a lovely deep level around the panelling but would benefit from a good level of detailing and attention where polishing would bring the gleam back to the paint finish. We didn't note many signs of stone chipping overall, although there was a small chip near the offside front headlight.

An area of the car that would require the most work is on the boot section, the paint coverage is good here but a high level of detailing and polishing would really make this section stand out in a much stronger way. We did note a mark to the paint on the offside door which was also present on the rear wheel arch. It appears that the car had caught its edge on a surface and caused a slight abrasion to the finish which we've noted in our exterior gallery images.

Again, we have taken high resolution images and videos of the car for you to assess the condition of the bodywork for yourselves. The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

Windscreen section, side windows and mirrors all appear in good condition and we could see no major signs of scratching or chips on the main glass sections. We noted a mark on the nearside A pillar, but this wasn't a major concern. The rear lip spoiler showed in a good way and added a sporty flair to the Alfa's styling. There were a few signs of scuffing on the rear trim section to the edges of the bumper.

The seals look good around the exterior and in line with the rest of the condition of the car. Looking in closer detail, the edging of the headlight surround appears with a slight crack to the section close to the screw. Soft top roof section shows in great condition with no issues with yellowing or cracking to the rear plastic window section. This has been replaced in recent years which is why the condition and operation of this is as good as it is today.

A good additional note is that the Alfa is also supplied with its hard top, a little rarity with some of these models. The current owner has never used it in his ~30 years of ownership as he prefers the roof down and soft top look to the car. Condition wise, the lining inside could do with some attention as would the exterior finish, which would benefit from a little restorative work.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

With its comfortable cabin space, roomy boot area and great condition interior, the Alfa Romeo Spider is a truly usable and lovely roadster.

Seats and Carpets

The interior of the Alfa was a great highlight looking over the car. We noted very few issues at all with the seats themselves, and minimal concern on either the drive or passenger sections. The seats themselves were deep and supportive and a comfortable place to enjoy roof down adventure from. The Alfa Romeo seatbelt pads were a nice touch to the cabin area.

On the carpet sections, there were some fairly heavy duty rubber mats that had been put down to protect the carpets, although not quite in keeping with all the rest of the Italian flair, they have done a great job in keeping the main carpet sections free from major wear. Over in the boot, the same condition from the front was reflected in the back, great condition carpets and all clean and presentable.

We've captured high-resolution photos and a full interior video tour through the car. This covers off the angles inside the car for you to review and appreciate the condition of what's on offer here in our interior review section.

Dashboard

The smart black dash appears in great shape with no marks or scratches to report. Mileage counter showed with ~85,107 KMs at the time of our visit. All dials and gauges are fully functional, showing well and without concern with no obvious scratching to the facings also free from dust across the drivers section.

We noted no issues with any warning lights and the oil pressure, voltage, fuel read and temperature gauge were all working with no problems observed. As with the other dials, speedometer and rev counter also worked without issue. Please note, due to this being an Italian import, the speedometer is shown in KMs.

Our interior gallery section takes you over some closer images of the Alfa's dash area, head over and see the car's cabin in finer detail.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Presented with a three-spoke Nardi Touring steering wheel, this area is in great condition with no major wear to the rim. The wood finish compliments the rest of the interior and keeps a classic feel in the cabin area. Metal work looked good here too, as did the smart-looking centre placed badge.

The gear stick is also in great condition with leather gaiter showing without splits, cracks or issue. Overall the drivers setup was in lovely condition and gave us very little cause for concern.

We've captured high-resolution photos for you to review and appreciate the condition of the interior in our gallery section.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

The Alfa Spider represents a great way to get the classic and captivating roadster experience.

Engine and Gearbox

Engine bay section appeared in a respectable condition when we looked over the car.

The ~104BHP, 1.6L performed well on our visit having been started up on the morning of our visit to move the car and give it a pre-visit clean down. Given the engine review was carried out much later in the day, the engine was cold when we carried out our checks.

Taking a closer look underneath the car we did note that a sign of a small oil leak was present which we've observed in our mechanical review gallery images.

We took the car on a short drive and go into further detail about the Spider, the car went through the gears without issue - watch the video to see the detail and the car in action.

Suspension and Brakes

On the drive out, the current owner Alexander took us around some local roads; we heard no knocks, bangs or unwanted noise from the suspension and overall the car performed as to be expected with no observed issues.

Alex mentions the brakes and suspension provide an enjoyable journey with the kind of stopping power you'd expect. The brakes felt to have no pull or vibrations but did present a small squeak with usage. Nothing that stood out to us as a major concern when on the journey and these brought the car to a stop without a problem.

The Drive

Hearing the engine sing is a part of the unfiltered experience of driving a Spider and the Italian connection is undeniably another big part of that Alfa charm.

With responsive road feel and its simple driving setup, this is one fun-to-drive roadster that doesn't feel out of its element in modern traffic.

Electrics and Other

The car is fitted with an aftermarket Sony stereo radio and cassette player. The current owner did let us know that the reception isn't great with the current Sony setup. Also supplied with the Spider is a Kenwood CD / USB player for the final sale which we've noted in our paperwork gallery images. Should the new owner wish, there is also a 'blank' covering for the cabin area for a more simplistic look, supplied with the car.

A spare wheel is located in the boot section.

Alexander let us know that he has had no issues with the electrical elements on the car and to the best of his knowledge, everything was working as it should do.

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History and Paperwork

There aren't too many cars that qualify as style icons, but with just over ~30 years of history wrapped up in its stylish bodywork, this is absolutely one of them.

The Alfa has been owned by Alexander since 1993 when it was ~18 months old. It is an Italian import car, having been initially imported to Sea Crest garage in Dover. The car is noted on the UK V5 as having 1 previous owner in the UK, but of course we are unable to verify its Italian keepers.

During its ownership with Alexander, the Alfa has benefitted from servicing and maintenance including; new battery, oil filter in October 2017, centre and rear prop replacement in September 2013, new spark plugs and oil filter in April 2003, new battery in March 1999, new front brake pads in March 1997, new fuel cover release and passenger seat back fix in August 1995, new rear brake pads in August 1994 and a new rear tailpipe silencer in February 1994.

Should there be any questions required, Alexander would be happy to answer these in the section below.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a HPi check on the vehicle.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house. Please note, the car may be in daily use, so the mileage may increase from that shown here - you can request an update check with us after you register your interest.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
05.07.2022	MOT	84,290 KMs
11.05.2021	MOT	83,873 KMs
21.05.2019	MOT	83,829 KMs
05.10.2017	MOT	82,239 KMs
28.09.2013	MOT	82,134 KMs
17.04.2003	MOT	81,845 KMs
13.06.2000	MOT	80,745 KMs
09.03.1999	MOT	79,486 KMs
30.04.1996	Service	74,814 KMs
14.07.1994	Service	44,945 KMs
07.12.1993	Service	41,142 KMs
11.05.1993	MOT	31,404 KMs

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Key Details

ModelSpider
TransmissionManual
Build Year1990
UK Reg. Date12.05.1993
CC1,570cc
Mileage~85,134 KMs on clock
ColourRed
Interior ColourBlack
Interior TrimLeather
Chassis #ZAR11500006002932
Engine #AR01563000308
MOTNo
HPi ClearYes - All Clear
UK Former Keepers1
Tyre BrandAvon
LHD or RHDLHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned~30 years
Key FeatureLong Ownership
Auction ID1382

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All Images

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Vehicle Sold

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Ask Questions

Seller : AlexanderM Sale Date 18.01.2024

Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.

Member

keithharmer

Hello again Alexander. Do you have the original steering wheel and steel wheels as they will be important for originality.. many thanks

Author

AlexanderM

No, I don’t have the original items. When I purchased the car the seller as part of the deal put the alloy wheels and the Enrico Nardi (Italian automobile and racing car maker) steering wheel on. The alloy wheels were manufactured by an Italian company called Fondmetal who supplied Alfa. regards.

Member

alfamad

Hello Alexander, I live on the Isle of Wight, do you think that could be possible to drive the car back here, or is in need of recommissioning?
Also is it possible to install the hard top as it is,or do you need to remove completely the soft top beforehand?
Best Regards.
L.

Author

AlexanderM

Yes, it’s perfectly possible to drive the car to the Isle of Wight. The hard top is put in place without having to remove the soft top. regards

Member

keithharmer

Hello Alexander. Just wanted to say how much I like your car, you have looked after it well. I shall review the bidding tomorrow, and if the bid is within my budget I shall bid for her. I live in France so I have severe import duties and transport costs to cover so please don’t be offended if she doesn’t meet the reserve. I have no idea what that is, but if my bid doesn’t meet it feel free, through the auction house, to talk to me about it. I would love to take your car to the next level… Read more »

Author

AlexanderM

Thank you for your interest. I know of no reason why the Spider could not be driven successfully to France. There is a new black mohair soft top roof and the hard top is avaliable with the car. Once I know the car has been sold I will arrange an MOT locally. The car has been Sorned and garaged since July 23. regards

Member

PAJ

Hi
Has the car not been serviced since 1996 ?
Does it have a current MOT ?

Author

AlexanderM

The car was regularly serviced by a friend, an Alfa Romeo mechanic, but because of very low annual useage/ mileage it was an ad hoc arrangement. The car has been SORNed and garaged since last July23 when the MOT expired 020723.

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Vehicle Location

Evesham

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