1968 Alfa Romeo GT Junior

1968 Alfa Romeo Other Additional Info:

1968 Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior
s/n: AR1217627, Engine no. AR00330 *17905*
Gialio Ocra with Black Interior
With its stunning Bertone-designed body, tidy greenhouse, and low but roomy profile, the 105 series Alfa Romeo coupe successfully competed against rivals from 1963 -1975 before finally conceding to an all new design. The charming but hunkered down front-engine, rear drive coupe offered seating for four adults and spirited performance. Although the design shared many mechanical parts with the former Giulietta, the new unibody or monocoque platform was very innovative and lightweight. Live rear axle, disc brakes in all corners, dual overhead cam, and 5-speed gearbox, all resulted in a very effective combination.
The early body designs contained a rather unique feature along the leading edge of the hood, a slight “step” down where the forward edge of the front fenders met the hoodline. Although this feature was removed from the standard offering in 1967, the Junior series cars retained the ‘stepnose’, resulting in collectors and enthusiasts favoring these early series cars for their distinctive frontal profile. The GT 1300 Junior, originally conceived as a lower cost entry model in 1965, was fitted with a 1290 cc twin cam engine. Essentially a short stroke, smaller cc engine with reduced port sizes and other modifications, the resulting motor was both robust and eager. The smaller engine allowed buyers to enter the Alfa Romeo ownership experience while avoiding the higher European taxes charged against larger engine capacity, particularly in Italy.
This is a nicely restored "Stepnose" 1300 Junior, currently displaying 64,112 kms. The attractive Bertone design is highlighted by one of the iconic colors offered on these cars – Gialio Ocra. According to the current owner, this particular car was imported from Europe after a restoration was performed. The car landed in the US and was subsequently sold by an East Coast dealer. The car has since been transferred to California where it retains current California license and title.
The paint is nicely done with very good preparation, high gloss, and good coverage. The chrome throughout the car is in good condition with some minor fogging on the bumpers, but otherwise well represented. Glass and trim are in good shape overall, however some minor drivers side rubber side glass trim will need to be tended to. The wheels are nicely redone with very nice center caps and newer tires. Panel fit overall is straight and the gaps are all well done. The door handles are in good condition and operate easily. The doors open and close smoothly. Various exterior weather stripping appears to have been replaced during the restoration.
The interior is a nice balance of original and properly redone components, including nicely finished seats, door panels, and proper rubber floor mat – all of which appears to have been done with originality in mind. The headliner and dashpad appear original and while not without some wear, there are no notable tears or flaws other than some minor toning on the headliner. A modern stereo has been installed in the glovebox, but has been disconnected. Newer speakers are noted in the interior. The dash is nicely accented with an optional Nardi steering wheel (original wheel included) sitting proudly against the factory instruments. The trunk area is clean and tidy and appears fundamentally sound. There is no evidence of corrosion.
The engine compartment is both mechanically and cosmetically quite tidy, with nice detailing and appropriate finishes, original style components, and correct hoses. The underside is in sound, solid condition and appears to have seen low miles since the restoration a few years ago. Suspension and assorted components all appear to be in good condition.
In December 2015 the car was taken to Alfaman in Novato, CA for a complete inspection and service. During that time, the transmission was removed and serviced with new gears, U-joints, and shifting forks installed. The fuel tank was removed, cleaned and the filler neck improved. Various gaskets and all fluids were replaced as needed. A complete tune up with new plugs, correct green wires, points and condenser were installed. New Weber carburetor mounts and gaskets were installed as well. Brake pads and front seals were installed along with a set of rotors for the rear brakes. A new voltage regulator and fuel pressure regulator were also installed. At the same time, ball joints and trailing arm bushings were also replaced and a set of new seatbelts installed. Roughly $8,000.00 was spent to bring the car to a reliable and enjoyable state for driving and local shows.
With the recent work completed and the car now refined, the driving experience is both tight and responsive. The engine starts easily, revs quickly and produces excellent power with no smoke evident. The brakes and clutch operate as they should. The reconditioned gearbox, a commonly distressing experience with Alfas, is excellent both warm and cold, including reverse gear.
The car comes with a set of tools, jack, recent receipts for work performed on the car within the past year, and the original GT Junior steering wheel.
Enjoyable driving and captivating design awaits in this nicely restored but also usable example of the “stepnose’ Junior. Highlighted by recent mechanical work, very tidy and tight engine, and a nice quality body and interior restoration, this Alfa Romeo is among the better examples available. More and more enthusiasts are confidently “stepping” into the unique blend of practicality and performance that these classic Italian 1300 Junior series cars resoundingly deliver.