Unique South African Homologation Special: ‘1 of 212’ 1985 Alfa Romeo GTV6 3.0
- October 25, 2021
- 1 of as Few as 212 Purpose-Built for ‘Group 1’ Racing Homologation
- Exceedingly Well-Maintained w/ Just 3-Owners Since New
- Fabulous Condition Throughout – Offered From Expert Ownership
- Reasonable, Seller-Stated 131,000 km (81k Miles)
- 184hp, 3.0L SOHC V6 Engine w/ 5-Speed Rear Transaxle
- Built to Compete w/ BMW’s 535i & Ford’s Sierra XR8
- Rare Today & Exceptionally Collectible
- Renowned Driving Dynamics w/ Great Italdesign Styling
While far from commonplace today, the GTV6 remains one of the finest and most enjoyable Alfa Romeo models from the modern era. Rooted in the Giugiaro/Italdesign styled Alfetta GT launched for 1974, the GTV6 marks one of the highest evolutions of the line, topped by the wild GTV6 3.0 of 1983-‘86. An inspired combination of Alfa Romeo’s lusty DOHC 3.0L V6 powerpalnt developing 186hp and the excellent architecture provided by the 1980 Alfa Romeo GTV6, the 3.0 was an inspired South Africa-only model, designed and produced for FIA ‘Group 1’ racing homologation. Production of at least 200 examples was mandatory and marque experts estimate just 212-220 examples were manufactured in all. Capable of 225 km/h (140 mph), the GTV6 3.0 delivers exceptionally balanced handling with its rear 5-speed manual transaxle and the stopping power of 4-wheel disc brakes – often deciding factors in competition against more powerful opponents including the BMW 535i and Ford Sierra XR8. Proof of the GTV 3.0’s effectiveness came quickly, beginning with its first pre-series racing victory, appropriately scored at the 1000 Km of Kyalami.
In addition to the power and speed afforded by the great sounding 3.0L V6 engine, the GTV6 3.0 features many specific features including a special intake system using six Weber carburetors housed under a tall hood bulge and NACA-style cold-air scoop. Handsomely laced alloy wheels are mounted in 205/50VR15 Pirelli P7 tires for excellent grip, and other special GTV6 3.0 features include a revised front air spoiler, body-color bumper rub strips, and a lightweight fiberglass boot lid. In a nod to the car’s racing purpose, the GTV6 3.0 utilized the dashboard from the early Alfetta GT design, with a central rev counter in full view of the driver and the other instruments housed in a central console. Exceptionally supportive sport seats and a three-spoke steering wheel maximize the incredibly engaging and responsive driving experience delivered by the GTV6 3.0.
As always, there’s far more to the story, and this wonderfully presented and preserved GTV6 3.0 from 1985 is a fabulous competition derived road car that simply must be experienced by anyone claiming to be a classic Sports/GT enthusiast. The car is simply gorgeous from stem to stern, including the body, paint, sporty interior, and “de rigeur” cross-laced alloy wheels. Given its rarity, high specification, and racing success – including dozens of podiums against fierce competition, the GTV6 3.0 is modern motorsports royalty. Since so few were built and fewer still have come to market, this hot Alfa is one to watch for savvy collectors and enthusiasts. Transactions are few and far between and the expert seller knows these cars extremely well and has likely priced it for a quick, fair sale, given everything it is and represents to the Alfa Romeo faithful. Our advice? Check out the sale listing and photos, contact the seller, and don’t hesitate to make a deal!!
