In 1950 when Alfa Romeo launched their all-new unit bodied 1900, unprecedented demand for the innovative and stylish car immediately propelled Alfa Romeo into larger more profitable markets. By 1953 technical and performance improvements successfully challenged more powerful and costly competitors. The newly developed dual overhead cam alloy-head four cylinder engine featured hemispherical combustion chambers, dual carburetors, and floor shift five speed transmissions, which also came with different gear ratios and “Alfin” self-adjusting rear brakes. The CSS variants (referred to as Tipo 2 or Series II) were formidable performers. Success in the Targa Florio, the Stella Alpina and the Coupe des Alpes, earned Alfa Romeo the slogan “The Family Car That Wins Races”. Many of the finest Italian coachbuilders designed and built bodies for the 1900 in a range of stunning configurations, further cementing the 1900 as one of the leading platforms among European cars of the 1950s.

Touring Carrozzeria’s patented Superleggera (super lightweight) construction employed on the 1900 utilized a formed steel sub-frame, cleverly enveloped by a lightweight aluminum skin. In the Touring design, the refined upper body, delicately garnished pillar construction, and forward swept side glass combined visual purity and refined elegance in a very capable road car. The light and airy upper canopy cleverly concealed space for two additional passengers or additional luggage in the rear seating area. During the entire four year run, Alfa Romeo produced just 854 1900 C Super Sprint models with various coachwork including the lovely 3-window Touring body on this car. This particular example was the subject of a high quality restoration by a previous owner some years ago and still maintains a very cohesive cosmetic patina. The combined visual qualities and satisfying mechanical harmony create a well-resolved car for enjoyable driving. Recent mechanical work under current ownership includes rebuilding the brakes and master cylinder, wheel cylinders, an oil change, gearbox and differential oil, and a tune up including dialing in the twin Solex carburetors and adjusting the valves. The last owner had a Nardi kit installed to be capable of more sporty shifting on the floor (the original parts for shifting on the steering column remained with the car) and 123 ignition for reliable adjustment. This Alfa Romeo 1900 CSS is currently road registered in Germany and all EU taxes have been paid. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for further details.