1949 Alfa Romeo Romeo-6C2500SS SWB 2 Seat Pininfarina Cabriolet

Description 1949 Alfa Romeo 6C2500SS SWB 2 Seat Pininfarina Cabriolets/n 915871, Engine no. 928182Aubergine with Black Leather A development of the prewar 6C 2300 and 2500, this 6C 2500 Super Sport is the ultimate variant of the old style elegant, glamorous, and luxurious Alfa Romeos that were developed under the guidance of Vittorio Jano and Wifredo Ricart. The specification is accordingly modern, including dual overhead cam engine and independent suspension all round. Their combination of sophisticated engineering, durability, and attractive bodywork has ensured that they are and have always been highly sought after by collectors. Three variants were built postwar, including the two closed versions (one by Touring and one in house by Alfa Romeo), and the Pinin Farina bodied convertible version. The International Register of the Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 indicates that just 63 6C2500 SS 2 seat (short wheelbase) cabriolets made during the postwar period, making this a very rare find indeed. This particular example was delivered new to pre-war racing icon Count Goffredo Zehender of Milan, Italy. It first arrived in California in 1953, purchased out of the South of France and imported by a US Army officer. In March of 1957 it was aquired by Robert Allinger of Saratoga, California who took the car off the road in 1963. Mr. Allinger had an involvement with motorsports on the West Coast, and was shown as an entrant on a Maserati Coupe for John Fox in 1957 at Laguna Seca, and on an Osca, also for Fox, the following year. In 1969, Allinger sold the car to Wayne Williams of Mountain View, California, who retained the car until early 2010, when it was purchased by the current custodians. The Pinninfarina Cabriolet coachwork on this example boasts unique detailing in several key areas such as sharper lines on the frontal area above the grille brows, the grill brow fascia, aluminum lower side spear deco strips, and the trunk handles. Zehander had a racing background with Alfa Romeo and Maserati, and it was likely these connections to the factory which enabled him to order cars with special details, either for himself, or for his friends and customers. Zehander also had a connection with s/n 915694, and s/n 915716, both employing unique body details. Truly a “time-warp” piece, this car has been sitting in dry California storage, virtually untouched since 1963. It is exceedingly straight and solid, and is largely complete. That said, after a careful inventory of all parts included, we are aware of the following missing pieces+: cam cover knobs (4), engine mount bolt assembly, intake manifold acorn nuts (2), oil pressure regulator spring, engine oil dip stick, engine mount bolt, assembly, oil filter screens, timing window cover, fan pulley (original part is damaged repairable), ran nut/bearing cover, water pump to intake manifold pipe, banjo bolt for water pipe (2), belly pans, one headlight lens, license plate lights (2), Magnetti Marelli horn (1 present, 1 missing), engine cover support rod (1 present, 1 missing), front bumper (to match present rear bumper), tools, taillights – TP254 80mm Carello (2), front small lights – Carello (2). In not mentioned above, the parts are accounted for, although they may not be individually photographed. Research indicates the engine number 928182 is the original matching numbers unit for this chassis. An ideal candidate for a comprehensive restoration, once completed, s/n 915871 will provide the new owner great success and appreciation at regional or international level shows such at Villa d’Este, and the Louis Vuitton concours events across Europe and the US. In addition to this example’s enormous show potential, it is also eligible for nearly all the major tours and events such as the Miglia Mille, and California Mille, among others.