Alfa Romeo Spider “Duetto”
SOFIA
Year of production: 1971
Engine: 1.570 c.c.
Power: 110 hp / 6.000 rpm
Transmission: 5 gears + reverse gear
2 seats
Designed and built by the Pininfarina factory in Turin, our car was one of the later models made under the direct supervision of the legendary Battista "Pinin" Farina, founder and owner of the factory, he passed away shortly after the production of this model variant.
Built continuously in its various forms and models from 1966 to 1994 when production stopped in Turin. During its production years the “Duetto” model was in high demand by car lovers of Italian design in the United States car market. The blockbuster film “The Graduate" which starred the movie legend Dustin Hoffman helped to promote the car and over time has given the Alfa Romeo Spider its iconic status.
The engine is in the front of the car with rear wheel-drive, powerful and comfortable, Sofia is the perfect example of sportiness and elegance, with a timeless charm, a car made for traveling and appreciating the sensations of driving, the rumble of the powerful DOHC engine supplied by two double body carburetors.
Our Duetto belongs to the 2nd series, called "Coda Tronca", produced from 1969 to 1982, only 2.477 units of this model were built.
Sophia spent her life at the foot of Mount Etna in Sicily, parading herself on Taormina seaside. She was spotted and acquired by Driving Vintage, then transferred to Piedmont, in her native place.
Practical advice
Sofia is a fascinating sporty and powerful roadster, this car will take you back in time to discover the true delights of 60’s driving.
The steering is not servo-assisted and requires a bit 'of strength for maneuvering, especially when the vehicle is standing. Clutch is operated with little foot strength, gear change is simple to use and requires just a little practice to understand its use.
The car is equipped with front and rear disc brakes, with a servo assisted brake system.
Luggage advice
This car has a good load capacity within the rear trunk area. Above the spare wheel and safety/emergency equipment, there is enough space for two cabin trolley bags or even a hold luggage.
Details
The model name has a very curious history: when the car was first introduced in '66 Alfa Romeo advertised a contest to give it a name: between 140.000 proposals were received and the chosen name "Duetto" was considered the most favorable choice. However, because of a patent dispute over the name “Duetto” with a chocolate snack producer, the Chocolate manufacturer claimed and obtained from the Law Court exclusive commercial use of the name "Duetto".
Alfa Romeo was eventually forced to eliminate the name "Duetto” however the name entrenched with car enthusiasts and was so rooted in the common language that all future evolutions of the spider model descending from that first model, will always be "improperly" identified as "Duetto".
