2003 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER 2.0L TWIN SPARK

This Alfa Romeo Spider is a compelling example of the marque’s wedge-shaped millennium-era convertible, boasting low mileage and an understated specification. Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre inline-four Twin Spark engine producing approximately 153bhp, powering the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer displays 47,720 miles from new.

First registered on 24 June 2003, this ‘Phase 2’ example of the Alfa Romeo Spider was acquired by the vendor in June 2020. There are five previous keepers on the log book.

With a drag coefficient of 0.38, the Spider was more than just an elegant Pininfarina design. This car is a ‘Phase 2’ model, which featured an upgraded centre console, different instrument cluster and layout of the switches, and revisions to the modular intake manifold of the Twin Spark engine.

The paintwork is in superb condition, with the vendor reporting only a few minor stone chips on the bonnet and front bumper. The lights, grille and badging present well with no damage, while the electrically-operated black fabric roof is in similarly attractive condition with no rips or tears visible. The roof fits snugly over the frame when closed. It rides on the elegant 16-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, presenting in very good condition with only minor grazes in a few places.

Inside, the cabin’s striking design is arguably as characterful as its exterior. Alfa Romeo-branded sill kickplates greet occupants as they open the door, while the Lusso specification ribbed black leather seats are still in excellent condition with only modest bolster wear. Contact points including the steering wheel and gear knob show only signs of light use.

The silver dashboard trims have also resisted scratching and other damage, and there is just a small scuff present on the driver’s door card. An aftermarket Sony stereo has been fitted to improve sound quality. There are no reported faults with any of the switchgear or electrics.

This low-mileage Italian sports car was last serviced in March 2018 at 42,443 miles by Dorne Motor Service, Winterbourne. The work carried out included an oil change as well as replacement of the alternator. Prior to this, the car was serviced by the same garage in April 2015 – which included renewal of the timing belt – and in September 2010 by JCS Kegworth.

A letter in the file states that the timing belt was also changed in March 2018, though there is no invoice for the work. During the vendor’s ownership, an exhaust lambda sensor has also been replaced. The rear shock absorbers have been replaced at some point prior to the current ownership.

The most recent MOT test was on 8 July 2019, which resulted in a pass at the second time of asking. The only failures on the first test were insufficient windscreen washer fluid and an inoperative registration plate lamp. Advisories were noted for some corrosion on the rear brake pipes, and wear to the front anti-roll bar link bushes.

The vendor reports that all four Firestone Roadhawk tyres were fitted in 2018, and have covered less than 4,000 miles to date. They are in good condition with ample tread remaining.

Accompanying the car are the original driver’s handbooks, stamped service history, numerous invoices, the jack, tool roll and original warning triangle. In addition, two keys plus the original red diagnostic key will also be supplied. The cherished registration ‘P44 YOU’ is also included in the sale.

This Alfa Romeo Spider 2.0 Twin Spark is a highly original, low-mileage example of a beautiful modern classic. While it is ready to be enjoyed as-is as a rare-groove daily driver, it is perhaps best savoured during warm spring and summer days.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.