Released in 1985 to celebrate the 75th birthday of the historic Alfa Romeo marque, the Alfa Romeo 75 brings together the perfect mechanical layout (Front Engine, RWD, and rear transmission and gearbox) with striking period correct design penned by the team at the ‘Alfa Romeo Design Centre’ in Turin. Before long, ‘Alfa Corse’ - The Alfa Romeo Factory Racing team - Got their hands on the 75 and started manufacturing cars for competition.

Previewed at the Geneva Motor Show in 1986, the 1.8 Turbo Evoluzione was created for Group A competition approval for the 3.0L class. With a multiplier of 1.7 for forced induction vehicles the production 1.8 Turbo engine (1779cc) was reduced slightly to 1762cc to be eligible. Alfa Corse worked on the body too, reducing weight and increasing rigidity. Alfa Corse completed a total of only 26 75 Turbo Evoluzione’s for racing duty, each individually numbered - This particular vehicle being one of those 26, number AR010.

‘AR010’ is the only RHD Alfa Corse built Grp.A car, and was used primarily as a Works Development car. With most circuits running clockwise, they decided to experiment with RHD with this vehicle to better improve balance on circuit, moving driver weight as well as steering / pedal box assemblies to the inside of the corner. As the program moved from WTCC to IMSA specifications as we approach 1988, ‘AR010’ was then used as a test bed by Alfa Corse for a number of the improvements later found in the IMSA spec cars, like the larger turbo, intake, and the carbon strutbrace.

AR010 also has another significant change from earlier Alfa Corse built cars - Commissioned by Alfa Corse boss Giorgio Pianta, The De Dion axle was split in two parts, which acted like two giant wishbones joined together by flexible beams. A cradle with adjustable linkages around this construction was used to bolt the transaxle to the chassis. This independent rear suspension was adjustable for toe, camber, roll-center and ride height. Alfa Corse tested the car with positive results and apparently, the car was destined to participate in the overseas WTCC races, but Alfa Romeo had withdrawn from the WTCC before taking part which is when we believe AR010 to be used as a test bed for the upcoming IMSA iteration of the 75.

The vehicle was sold after the 1987 season as the IMSA cars were being built, turning up later in a museum in Turin before making it’s way to the UK, and has been owned by a number of prominent Alfa Romeo Racers since. An extremely rare opportunity to purchase a piece of Alfa Romeo / Alfa Corse Motorsport history - A true ‘1 of 1’ vehicle that cannot be replicated.

Exterior

Finished in the iconic Alfa Rosso with period-correct white livery, and benefitting from being used for development rather than wheel to wheel racing on circuit, AR010 presents extremely well for a true period racer. The bodywork is all straight and without damage, corrosion or obvious previous repair, and all trim, badging and accessories appear complete. Naturally, as with any older, competition-derived vehicle, small age-related marks can be found, but the car presents extremely well with the most charming of motorsport Patina’s.

Interior

The interior is simple, purposeful and very much in keeping with motorsport vehicles of the time. A single, period correct carbon backed ‘Fusina Racing’ bucket seat is paired with matching red TRS harnesses, and the interior and roll cage (Unique to Alfa Corse Cars) is painted in a contrasting ‘light grey’ paintwork. Controls remain on the dashboard and stalks, with key items like emergency cut off, fuel pump and starter motor controlled by a central box within easy reach of the pilot. A plumbed in extinguisher set up is present, and all key information is easily visible. Overall, the interior is extremely well put together, laid out and presented.

Mechanical

While it has been out of competition for a number of years, the car fires into life easily and settles into idle, managing temperatures quite comfortably. Only a few months ago it made the journey to Zandvoort to take part in the famous ‘Spettacolo Sportivo’ Alfa Romeo event, comfortably completing multiple demo runs around the famous circuit. While it will require some refreshment before serious competition, it is generally in ‘turnkey’ condition. Recently reunited with it’s orginal ECU, it is also the most genuine ‘Alfa Corse’ built competition car on the market currently.

Potential Eligibility

Motor Racing Legends – Historic Touring Car Challenge
Peter Auto – Heritage Touring Cup 2
Tourenwagen Legenden
Youngtimer Touring Car Challenge (YTCC)

Summary

A true piece of Alfa Romeo history, and one of the most prominent models and vehicles of the era for the brand - AR010 is one for the true collector, enthusiast and racer, and this opportunity cannot be replicated. Ready to join any collection or to be refreshed and brought back up to date for competition, the vehicle has been featured in many marque specific books, and comes with a healthy history folder with spares available by seperated negotiation. Arguably the last ‘true Alfa Romeo / Alfa Corse’ built race car prior to Fiat’s acquisition of the brand.

History

VIN: AR010

Engine: 1762cc Turbocharged

Year of Manufacture: 1987

History Folder - Including Historic invoices and mechanical notes

FIA HTP Paperwork Pending

Walk-around video available. National delivery can be arranged. Part exchange welcome. Viewing strictly by appointment.

While we take every effort to describe the car as thoroughly as possible, as with all historic and motorsport vehicles there may be period quirks or characteristics that cannot be fully identified during our inspection, and all historic / motorsport vehicles will require regular care and maintenance — although, of course, it’s often these very traits that make classics so charming. Please consider this when purchasing a historic or motorsport vehicle.

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