The Alfa Romeo GT – Sporting Italian Performance from a Genius Designer

For such a clean and beautiful design, the 1963-1977 Alfa Romeo GT is confusingly burdened with many different names. Officially, the Alfa Romeo 105/115 series coupe, they are often referred to as Giulia Sprint GT, GT Veloce, GTV, GT Junior, GTV 2000 and sometimes generically as GTs. I’ve generally referred to the entire category as GTVs but resolute Alfisti will advise there are many variants then get about the eager business of schooling you on the subtleties of each particular type and the merits of each one. Such is the case for the rabid population of enthusiasts, yours truly included, who continually sing the praises of these historically important and unquestionably beautiful Italian sport coupes. They are among the most exciting, drivable, and enjoyable cars of the 1960s and early ’70s.

With its stunning Bertone-designed body, tidy greenhouse, and low but roomy profile, the 105 series Alfa Romeo coupe successfully competed against rivals for 14 years before finally conceding to an all-new design. The charming yet hunkered down stance, front-engine/rear drive coupe offered seating for four adults and spirited performance in a package that was entirely modern and precise; the perfect blend of mid-century purity with just the right amount of delicate trim to convey the Alfa Romeo brand. Although the design shared many mechanical components with the former Giulietta, the new unibody or monocoque platform was both innovative and lightweight offering great performance through the live rear axle, disc brakes at all corners, dual overhead cam engine, and 5-speed gearbox. But even without these heralded mechanical features, the most striking aspect of the new Alfa was the remarkable exterior design.