All info and photos taken from the
Fantasy Junction site where this car is listed for sale.
I wanted to document this 1900 for our archives. I have no interest in the car.
S/n AR1900C*01607*, Engine no. AR1508*00593*
Silver with Blue Interior
Just 949 `Five Window` 1900 Alfa Romeos were built by Touring between 1951 and 1954. While all the `Five Window` 1900s were built with the lightweight aluminum `Superleggera` body, this early production example is a desirable Series I model with more beautiful detailing (unique door handles and interior details, more attractive roofline, and smaller rear window) than later cars. The earlier cars were also constructed in a more carefully and costly manner- a process which was scaled back as the productions numbers increased.
This example is believed to have been delivered new to Panama were it was purchased by an American Serviceman and brought back to Ventura, California. He sold the car to Chuck Reid and Kerry Kendall, who after doing a restoration, sold it to Jack Crowl, who then sold it to the current owner in the mid 1990s. The current owner has successfully done the California Mille Miglia twice, with event support by respected Alfa Romeo expert Conrad Stevenson. Best described as a matching numbers example with an older, very well kept restoration that remains very sharp. The car is well sorted mechanically, and fit for long distance rallies or tours.
Cosmetically the car presents well. The engine bay and underside are both complete and restored to original specifications, but showing light patina. The body and paint is absolutely beautiful, with restorative work carried out by respected professional Steve Moal in Oakland, California. The interior was reupholstered to period correct specification with cloth inserts as found on most 1900s. A Nardi wood wheel has been fitted. The gauges look to have been included in the restoration process and are excellent. All the original switch knobs are in place, as is a wonderfully deco-era radio which speaks to the originality and period correctness of this example.
Mechanically the car is very well sorted having completed the California Mille Miglia twice in recent years with the current owner. Alfa Romeo expert Conrad Stevenson has been looking after the car for the current ownership period, although no major mechanical issues have needed correction. In 2008, Jaan Hjorth performed a major service which included an ignition system and carburetor adjustment, and a brake system service. Accordingly, the brakes are effective and the suspension reasonably taught. The transmission works well when warm. There is a slight clutch throughout bearing noise, which is very common to 1900s, and does not require replacement. The engine sounds great and pulls strong with minimal, if any smoke.
This car is equipped with a complete tool roll and period correct jack, spare, and records for the current ownership period. With its 1953 production year, this 1900 is eligible for many of the world`s premier historic car rallies such as the Mille Miglia and the California Mille, Colorado Grand, and Copper State Classic. It is nice enough to look sharp up close, but not so nice that you should hesitate to enjoy it on the open road.