Introduced at the 1962 Geneva Salon, the Alfa Romeo 2600 marked the brand's final foray into six-cylinder grand touring cars. Available in Berlina, Sprint, and Spider variants, it featured a new 2584cc DOHC straight-six engine - an all-alloy unit recalling Alfa Romeo's illustrious Grand Prix heritage. With 145bhp and 156 lb-ft of torque, this refined powerplant offered spirited performance, delivered to the rear wheels through a five-speed gearbox. The model employed all-round coil-sprung suspension and servo-assisted disc/drum brakes, with later examples upgrading to discs at all corners. The Spider variant, designed by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan, stands out for its elegant Superleggera construction, a lightweight framework clothed in finely contoured aluminium panels. Only 2,255 examples were produced between 1962 and 1965, making it a rare and desirable open-top grand tourer.

Even more exclusive is this particular example, one of a very limited number of factory-approved right-hand drive conversions by Ruddspeed, the British engineering firm famed for its high-quality craftsmanship. Originally delivered on April 24 1963, to Mr. David Graham of Chelmsford, it is among the few Ruddspeed-converted 2600 Spiders known to exist. Originally finished in Alpha White, the car spent much of its life resprayed in red before undergoing a faithful restoration that returned it to its original colour, accentuating the classic lines and restrained elegance of Touring's design. As a fast tourer rather than an out-and-out sports car, the 2600 Spider blends long-distance comfort with satisfying performance, a true gentleman's express.

A rare blend of Italian design, technical pedigree, and British coachwork heritage, this Alfa Romeo 2600 Spider is a standout example of early 1960s motoring excellence. Inside, the Alfa presents beautifully, having been re-trimmed to a superb standard. The new Rosso leather upholstery and grey carpeting bring a rich contrast and refined elegance to the cabin, carefully echoing the model's original styling while elevating the overall ambience. The restoration work has been entrusted to respected marque specialists such as K&L of Golders Green, Century Classics of Hungerford and Benalfa of Westbury, each known for their expertise with classic Alfa Romeos.

Further recommissioning has been undertaken by the Brooklands Works Department, adding to the car's long-standing record of expert maintenance. Recent work includes the replacement of the rear wheel bearings and the installation of a Kenlowe electric fan. This modern addition ensures consistent cooling and maintains the engine at an optimal 87°C making the car both reliable and enjoyable in real-world driving conditions. Consigned by Mathew Priddy

Lot details
Year: 1963
Make: Alfa Romeo
Model: 2600 Spider by Touring
Registration: UK Registered
Chassis No: 00601/02598
Odometer: 18,380

* A rare factory-approved for RHD conversion by Ruddspeed
* Restored circa 2020