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1957 Alfa Romeo 1900C SS 3 Window Coupe
Touring Coachwork
s/n AR1900C*10475*
Engine no. AR1900C*10482*
Blue with Red and Grey interior
When Alfa Romeo launched the 1900 series in 1950, the unique design and sporty package rapidly transformed this fast-moving company into a world leader with new demands for their cars. Having spent many years constructing hand-built cars, the expanding market called for a transition to more volume production methods. Paired with different gear ratios and “Alfin” self-adjusting rear brakes, these CSS (also referred to as Tipo 2 or Series II) cars evolved into formidable performers. Alfa Romeo achieved wins in the Targa Florio, the Stella Alpina and the Coupe des Alpes, proudly promoting “The Family Car That Wins Races”. Many of the finest Italian coachbuilders bodied the 1900 in a range of stunning configurations, further cementing the 1900 as one of the leading platforms among European cars of the 1950’s.
As part of their decades-long partnership with Touring Coachworks, Alfa Romeo employed their patented Superleggera (super lightweight) construction using a rigid steel sub-structure enveloped by a light aluminum skin to form the stunning three-window coupe design. The light and airy upper canopy surrounded passengers in a sporty GT package, offering comfort and performance, with a stylish and fashionable interior.
According to the Alfa Romeo Automobilismo Storico – Centro Ducumentatione certificate accompanying this car and signed by expert Marco Fazio, this matching numbers example was completed March 28, 1957, and sold July 9, 1958, to Societa per il Commercio dei Prodotti Alfa Romeo, Lugano Switzerland. The certificate also notes blue as the original color when delivered new as well as the engine numbered AR1900C*10482* which remains in the car today. Retained under Swiss ownership for more than 40 years, this Alfa Romeo was subsequently purchased by the next owner who embarked on the restoration shown today. At the time of purchase, the car was in very original condition, retaining the original engine, a rare 5-speed gearbox, the original twin 40 PII Solex carburetors, original bumpers, factory seats, and a very straight alloy body.
The three-year restoration spanning 2018-2021, has been documented with numerous photos showing all removed parts as well as the removal of the entire alloy body (including the roof) from the Superleggera steel frame and body structure, stripping both metal and alloy body panels to bare finishes, and hand finishing the body shell for reinstallation. This process was of course labor intensive but important to address dissimilar metal electrolysis that often plagues cars with this unique lightweight construction. During this time, the steel substructure was finished and coated for reassembly while the interior was fully reupholstered in correct red and gray materials. The original matching numbers engine was removed, fully disassembled, rebuilt and refinished to original specifications. The rare 5-speed gearbox was also rebuilt as well as suspension, brakes, and electrical, with particular care to installation of correct original items including period correct Carello headlight lenses, plating, and refinishing for all bright work, beautifully restored gauges, and a rebuilt and very rare flat Nardi wood rim steering wheel.
Upon completion, the car was represented by Fantasy Junction and sold in 2022 to the now consigning owner. The current owner used the car sparingly, electing to further sort the mechanical details with Alfa specialists in Florida. Work included a new wiper motor and wiper shaft mechanism and service for the gearbox output shaft and yoke. In April 2023, the engine and gearbox were removed, a new head gasket and new timing chain housing gasket were installed, the rear cover gasket and crankshaft rear seal were replaced, a new cork oil pan gasket installed, and the timing was reset along with dwell angle on the distributor. For the gearbox, a fifth gear secondary shaft was replaced, a new throwout bearing was installed, and the gearbox was reassembled and tested.
Today this Alfa Romeo presents in excellent overall condition. The paint is glossy and smooth showing a few minor finish imperfections in the otherwise satisfying exterior finish which is suitable for enthusiasts who enjoy participating in touring events and local concours. A raised dimple on the right side of the trunk lid is evident, due to previous improper operator closure at some time in the past. The chrome and brightwork are in excellent condition with very good fit to the alloy body. The front grilles are in excellent condition, mounted with protective black gaskets against the body surface. The hard-to-find trim around the windshield shows a few imperfections, but generally is in good condition. The doors, hood, and trunk open and shut firmly with very nice panel fit overall. The Sekurit branded windshield is in very good condition and the door glass, both of which were recently replaced, are in excellent condition, though both sides show minor variation in fit to the upper trim line, when raised and snugged to the new weatherstripping. The lighting and lenses, including the glass Carello branded headlight lenses, are in excellent condition as are the Touring badges. Proper stamping marks are noted on the headlight trims and the small amber color taillights are not crazed or cracked. The car wears painted silver wire wheels with chrome plated dual ear knockoffs with front four-wheel triple-shoe cast alloy finned drum brakes.
The interior is well done with attention to detail throughout and quality finishes. Presented in contrasting red with light grey cloth inserts, this color combination nicely offsets the deep blue exterior originally delivered when new. The overall interior has been handsomely composed since the restoration was completed and well cared for with only minor evidence of use and no significant wear as often found in typical areas. The dashboard and accompanying instruments are wonderfully laid out displaying fabulous Italian graphic design, color, and beautiful restoration, fronted by a restored and rare flat Nardi steering wheel. Overall, the interior is a handsome representation of the original Alfa Romeo design and excellence found in these beautiful coachbuilt road cars.
The engine compartment has been thoughtfully prepared with correct factory finishes including a correctly finished cast alloy air intake plenum prepared with textured black and raised Alfa Romeo script, correct air filter canister, and matching cam covers finished in textured black. The clear, single strike AR1900C*10482* engine number stamping is consistent with the Fazzio letter declaring the original factory installed unit when new. The various accessories under the hood, including the correct original Solex carburetors, are quite nice overall, showing only minor signs of use since the restoration was completed, further benefiting from considerable sorting performed in April 2023. In all, the engine and engine compartment are visually balanced with the overall cosmetic condition and consistent with other aspects of the detailed restoration. The undercarriage shows no signs of structural compromise once again displaying condition and finishes indicating a body off restoration, including new leather rear axle retaining straps, correctly painted finishes, correct aluminum castings and magnesium oil case, finned aluminum drum brakes, fresh hardware, and proper fittings.
On the road, this 1900 delivers a satisfying driving experience, further aided by sorting and adjustments prepared under the direction of the current owner. The engine starts easily and makes excellent power moving through the 5-speed gearbox. Suspension and general driving manners are impressive including effective brakes and a smooth operating clutch. Unlike many cars of this vintage, the driver and passenger sit comfortably, can engage in conversation, and access personal items, which can be conveniently stowed in the rear seating area. For vintage touring enjoyment, it is hard to beat a 1900 CSS for the combination of captivating interior design, elegant exterior coachwork, and twin-cam performance. This Alfa Romeo is accompanied by a digital file containing numerous photographs documenting the restoration and copies of recent engine and gearbox service invoices.
This is a great opportunity to acquire a recently restored, matching numbers, Touring bodied Alfa Romeo with sound mechanical presentation and enjoyable visual presence. Distinguished by the 1957 model year, this Alfa Romeo is eligible for entry to prestigious events worldwide, often excluding 1958 and later model cars. The combination of elegance and performance, coupled with the contrasting red and grey interior makes this 1900 CSS a great event or show car. For those who admire handmade Italian coachwork, spacious interior accommodation, state of the art engineering, and exciting driving, this Alfa Romeo 1900 CSS will surely deliver on the promises of rewarding vintage GT ownership.
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