An exceptionally rare 1953 Alfa Romeo 1900C Supergioiello with significant competition history will be auctioned by leading specialist online auction site, Car & Classic.
As Alfa Romeo’s first post-war production model, the compact 1900 played an important role in showcasing a new direction for the Milan-based marque, launched in four-door saloon form in 1950, the slightly shorter 1900C Sprint coupé arrived one year later. Highly reputed coachbuilders Pininfarina, Zagato, Touring and Ghia each sketched sporting versions, the latter’s Supergioiello – or ‘jewel’ – is widely considered to be the best.
While Ghia produced the bodywork for 18-20 cars, only six were ever finished, this Alfa Romeo 1900C Sprint Supergioiello is the last, one of three known to remain in the world today. Built in 1953 and delivered new to Spain in 1954, chassis 01549 was used in competition by Gumersindo Garcia Fernandez, a keen gentleman rally driver, in 1955 it was entered into the gruelling Rallye Monte-Carlo. Further motorsport outings ensued before the car passed into the care of Mr Salvador Ros who rallied it between 1958 and 1961 when an accident brought its competition career to a close.
The Alfa Romeo reappeared in 1990 with a new owner, Mr Gemino, before passing to another significant collector in Portugal, Mr Pueche. Both contemporary custodians invested significant time and energy into researching the car’s history, confirming its provenance and uncovering period photographs of its unique past where it can be seen racing in its original configuration. In more recent years the 1900C has been fully restored to its factory finish of Rame Metallizzato (Metallic Copper) by Cognolato in Italy. It has driven just 78 kilometres (48 miles) since and displays a period correct livery – including its ‘400’ competition number.
In 2016 it won ‘Best in Show’ at Essen Motor Show and since being acquired by another European collector five years ago, it has been shown at Villa d’Este Concours d’Elegance, underlining its flawless condition.
“As one of the rarest jewels in Alfa Romeo’s post-war portfolio, the 1900 enjoyed success in high-profile rallies, including the Targa Florio, but the twin-cam 1900C Sprint with Ghia bodywork is even more special,” says Car & Classic’s Head of Editorial Dale Vinten. “The final chassis to emerge from Ghia has a fascinating competition history, its immaculate condition and eligibility for prestigious modern day events such as the Mille Miglia Storica will merely add to its appeal.”
