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HomeCarsThe legendary coupe celebrates its 70th anniversary

The legendary coupe celebrates its 70th anniversary

Only two examples of this automotive gem were manufactured in 1954. The Alfa Romeo 2000 Sportiva, the Italian brand's iconic model, is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. A look back at the history of this exceptional coupรฉ that left its mark on the automotive industry.

The origins of the 2000 Sportiva project

The history of the Alfa Romeo 2000 Sportiva actually begins in 1950 with the launch of the Alfa Romeo 1900. This revolutionary model was the brand's first to be mass-produced in the Portello plant, near Milan. This milestone marked a major turning point for the Italian manufacturer, forcing it to rethink its working methods and organization.

Despite this industrialization, Alfa Romeo did not give up its sporting DNA. The 1900 quickly distinguished itself in competition, winning numerous victories in the Touring category. This success inspired the advertising slogan of the time: “The family car that wins races.”

Development of a more efficient version

Although the 1900 was powerful, it was not enough to establish itself in higher categories such as Sport and GT. Alfa Romeo therefore began developing more powerful versions based on the 1900's technical platform.

For this project, the brand called upon the best Italian coachbuilders. Bertone, headed by Franco Sciaglione, particularly stood out by proposing two concepts:

  • The Alfa Romeo 2000 Sportiva in coupe version
  • The Alfa Romeo 1900 Sport Spider in convertible version
  • Initially planned for a limited production of 100 units, these models ultimately remained in prototype form with only two units manufactured for each version.

    Technical characteristics of the 2000 Sportiva

    The 2000 Sportiva retained some elements of the standard 1900, such as rear-wheel drive and the longitudinally positioned engine. However, many improvements were made:

  • A tubular steel frame
  • A body made of light aluminum alloy
  • Optimized aerodynamics
  • The vehicle's design has been particularly carefully designed to improve its performance. We note in particular:

    โ€“ An elongated hood with a central ribโ€“ Headlights covered with a plexiglass surfaceโ€“ Oval air intakes to cool the front drum brakesโ€“ A flowing roofline and an elegant rear

    A powerful and innovative engine

    The heart of the 2000 Sportiva was an improved version of the 1900 engine. Its main features were:

    โ€“ A displacement increased to 1997 cmยณโ€“ Two overhead camshaftsโ€“ Two double-body carburetorsโ€“ A dry sump lubrication system

    This block developed a power of 136 hp at 6500 rpm, allowing the 915 kg coupรฉ to reach a top speed of 220 km/h.

    The legacy of the 2000 Sportiva

    Although produced in very limited quantities, the design of the 2000 Sportiva inspired many later Alfa Romeo models, such as the Giulia Sprint or the 33 Stradale.

    Today, two of the four examples produced are preserved at the Alfa Romeo Historical Museum in Arese:

    โ€“ A 2000 Sportiva coupe in metallic silverโ€“ A red 1900 Sport Spider convertible

    These exceptional vehicles regularly take part in prestigious events such as the Mille Miglia.

    Another project based on the 1900

    Interestingly, Bertone was not the only coachbuilder to work on the 1900 base. In 1952, the coachbuilder Touring had already created a model that had become legendary: the Alfa Romeo 1900 C52, nicknamed the “Disco Volante”.

    The Alfa Romeo 2000 Sportiva remains an exceptional testimony to the know-how and audacity of Italian manufacturers in the 1950s. Its 70th anniversary reminds us of the importance of preserving this unique automotive heritage.