
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider (1955-62)
Production Total: The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider, produced between 1955 and 1962, had a total production run of 14,300 units.
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Price New: The new price of an Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider in the UK in 1955 was approximately £1,500.
The new price of an Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider in 1955 was approximately **£1,500**. Adjusted for inflation to 2025, this would roughly equate to **£40,000**.
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Rivals: Here are the new prices of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider's main rivals in 1955:
### MG MGA
- **Price**: Approximately £940
### Triumph TR2
- **Price**: Approximately £950
### Austin-Healey 100
- **Price**: Approximately £1,063
These prices reflect the competitive landscape of sports cars during that era.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are approximately **0 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spiders** recorded on UK roads.
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PLEASE NOTE: The information provided below is given in averages across Northern Ireland at the date specified. Petrol reflect average prices for four star fuel in litres.
Road Tax: In 1955, the UK road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) was based on the engine size. For cars with engines over 1549cc, the annual road tax was approximately **£15**.
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Petrol: In 1955, the price of four-star petrol in the UK was approximately **54.5 pence per gallon**. This translates to about **12 pence per litre**.
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Insurance: N/A
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COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider (1955-1962) is a classic car, but like many vintage vehicles, it has its share of common faults. Here are some issues that owners might encounter:
1. **Rust**: The bodywork and chassis are prone to rust, especially in areas like the floor pans, sills, and wheel arches.
2. **Electrical Problems**: The electrical system can be unreliable, with issues such as faulty wiring and malfunctioning gauges.
3. **Cooling System**: Overheating can be a problem due to an inefficient cooling system. Regular maintenance of the radiator and cooling components is essential.
4. **Oil Leaks**: The engine and transmission can develop oil leaks, which need to be addressed to prevent further damage.
5. **Suspension Wear**: The suspension components, including bushings and shock absorbers, can wear out over time, leading to a less comfortable ride and handling issues.
Despite these common faults, the Giulietta Spider remains a beloved classic for its design and driving experience.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.
1. **First Generation (1955–1962):**
- The Giulietta Spider made its debut in 1955. Alfa Romeo crafted around 14,300 examples of this quintessentially Italian sports roadster during this period.
- These early cars were built on the short-wheelbase Tipo 750 chassis, featuring unibody construction. The unibody design provided a stiff and solid platform for handling performance.
- Under the hood, the magic happened: a 1.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine with dual overhead cams, spinning to life via a double-row chain. All Giulietta Spiders (except the Veloce models) featured a single Solex carburettor, delivering around 79 horsepower. Not bad for a lightweight roadster, right?.
2. **Second Generation (Giulia Spider 1600, 1962–1965):**
- As the Giulietta era evolved, so did the Spider. Enter the Giulia Spider 1600, which carried forward the Pininfarina design DNA.
- These Giulia Spiders were powered by a 1.6-liter engine, and they continued to charm enthusiasts until 1965. The Giulia Spider Veloce, a sportier variant, also graced the scene during this time.
3. **Beyond the Giulietta: Later Generations:**
- Now, here's where it gets interesting. The Giulietta Spider paved the way for a lineage of Alfa Romeo Spiders that extended beyond the original Giulietta design.
- The third generation (1970–1982) brought larger engines and improved comfort. It was a time of evolution, where the Spider continued to captivate hearts.
- The fourth and final generation (1989–1994) focused on reliability and updated features. It marked a bittersweet end to an era—a farewell to the classic Spider we all adore.
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Trim Levels
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider (1955-1962) was available in several trim levels:
1. **Standard**: The base model with essential features.
2. **Veloce**: A high-performance version with a more powerful engine and sportier features.
These trim levels offered a range of options for buyers, catering to different preferences and needs.
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Engines
1. **The Original Powerplant:**
- Under the hood of the Giulietta Spider, Alfa Romeo nestled a small but spirited 1.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This gem featured dual overhead cams and spun to life via a double-row chain. It was an all-aluminium wonder with a hemispherical combustion chamber—a design that would set the course for Alfa Romeo until the early 1990s.
- Now, let's talk numbers: This engine offered a modest 81 horsepower. But here's the magic—it was enough to propel the lightweight roadster, weighing in at just 858 kilograms (or 1892 pounds), with grace and enthusiasm.
2. **Carburetion and Performance:**
- All Giulietta Spiders (except the Veloce models) were equipped with a single Solex carburettor. It might not have been a fuel-injected powerhouse, but it had character—a soulful connection between throttle and road.
- With this setup, the Giulietta Spider could dance its way up to a top speed of around 101 mph (163 km/h). Not lightning-fast, but it wasn't about raw speed; it was about the experience—the wind in your hair, the curves of the road, and the symphony of that little engine.
3. **Crafted for the Heart:**
- The Giulietta Spider wasn't just a car; it was an emotion. From the left-mounted ignition key to the leather-clad interior, every detail was carefully crafted. The three-dial instrument panel, with the tachometer front and centre, was straightforward and purposeful. No unnecessary gauges cluttering things up—just pure driving joy.
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Performance
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider, produced between 1955 and 1962, offered a delightful driving experience with its sporty performance. Here are some key performance figures:
- **Engine**: 1.3 L Inline-4
- **Power**: 79 HP (59 kW)
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 101 mph (163 km/h)
- **Acceleration (0-62 mph)**: Around 13.3 seconds
The Giulietta Spider's lightweight design and responsive handling made it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
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Rivals
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider (1955-1962) had several main rivals in the UK, each offering competitive performance. Here are some of the key competitors and their performance figures:
### MG MGA
- **Engine**: 1.5-litre inline-4
- **Power**: 68 bhp
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 97 mph
- **0-60 mph**: Around 16.0 seconds
### Triumph TR2
- **Engine**: 2.0-litre inline-4
- **Power**: 90 bhp
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 107 mph
- **0-60 mph**: Around 12.0 seconds
### Austin-Healey 100
- **Engine**: 2.7-litre inline-4
- **Power**: 90 bhp
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 106 mph
- **0-60 mph**: Around 11.0 seconds
These performance figures highlight the competitive landscape of sports cars during that era | Review - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/car-reviews/39923/alfa-romeo-giulietta-1955-65).
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Designer/Dimensions
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider (1955-1962) was designed by **Pinin Farina** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfa_Romeo_Giulietta_%281954%29).
### Dimensions:
- **Wheelbase**: 2,250 mm (88.6 in)
- **Length**: 3,900 mm (153.5 in)
- **Width**: 1,580 mm (62.2 in)
- **Height**: 1,335 mm (52.6 in).
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Spares/Trim Levels
1. **Alfa Accessories and Merchandise (Online):**
- If you're more of a digital traveller, fear not! You can embark on your parts hunt from the comfort of your own home. Alfa Romeo Accessories offers a range of genuine Giulietta spares and accessories. Mudflaps, mats, boot liners—everything to pamper your beloved Spider. They've set up camp online, and their virtual doors are always open.
2. **Autopartspro.co.uk: Original Giulietta Spares:**
- Picture this: You, standing in a virtual auto parts marketplace, surrounded by shelves of Giulietta goodness. Autopartspro.co.uk is your guide. They stock original OEM new and used Alfa Romeo Giulietta car spares. From brake pads to wheel hubs, they've got you covered. Just type in your Giulietta model, and voilà! Spare parts galore.
3. **PartsGateway: Your Gateway to Giulietta Spares:**
- Imagine a magical gateway that leads straight to Giulietta parts. Well, PartsGateway is that portal! It's the UK's #1 destination for car parts. Whether you need an elusive chrome radiator grille or those sought-after rear lights for your Giulietta Sprint, they've got connections. Knock on their digital door, and let the parts adventure begin.
4. **EU-SPARES: Giulietta Spider's European Hideout:**
- Now, let's cross the channel to EU-SPARES. They specialize in original car parts for Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider. From radiator thermostats to wing mirror glass, they've curated a treasure trove. So, if your Spider needs a little European flair, this is where you'll find it.
5. **BreakerLink: The UK-Ireland Connection:**
- Imagine a network of quality breakers and suppliers spanning both the UK and Ireland. BreakerLink weaves that web. They'll hunt down any elusive part your Giulietta desires. Knock on their digital door, and they'll deliver straight to your doorstep. No passport required—just a love for Italian engineering.
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Specialists NI
Here are some Alfa Romeo specialists in the UK and Ireland:
1. Donnelly Motorstore Mallusk
o Location: Mallusk Way, Newtownabbey BT36 4AA
o Phone: 028 9590 7860
o Website: Donnelly Motorstore Mallusk
2. Love Alfa
o Location: London, Kent, UK & Ireland
o Phone: 0121 456 1212
o Website: Love Alfa
3. Independent Alfa Romeo Specialists
o Website: The Alfa Romeo Specialist Register.
You can also use the Alfa Romeo Dealer Locator to find more specialists near you.
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Racing
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider was quite successful in racing, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. The Giulietta Spider Veloce, a high-performance variant, earned its stripes in multiple events and faced stiff competition from brands like Porsche, Triumph, and MG. Despite these challenges, it managed to hold its own and even excel in various racing categories.
The car's performance prowess, coupled with its elegant design, made it a favourite among racers and enthusiasts alike. Its success on the track helped solidify Alfa Romeo's reputation for producing sporty and reliable cars.
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Valuation 2025
The value of an Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider (1955-1962) in the UK in 2025 can vary based on its condition, mileage, and history. On average, a well-maintained Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider can be valued between **£37,593 and £78,200**.
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Clubs
There are clubs in Northern Ireland for Alfa Romeo owners to join. Here are a couple of options:
1. **[Northern Ireland Italian Motor Club](http://www.niimc.com/)**: This club welcomes all Italian vehicle enthusiasts, including Alfa Romeo owners. They organize regular meetings and events.
2. **[Alfa Romeo Forum - Northern Ireland](https://www.alfaowner.com/forums/northern-ireland.135/)**: This forum has a dedicated section for Alfa Romeo owners in Northern Ireland, where you can connect with other enthusiasts and participate in discussions and events.
These clubs provide a great opportunity to connect with fellow Alfa Romeo enthusiasts and share your passion for these classic cars.
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Alfa Romeo 155; 1750 GTV; Alfasud Sprint; 156 GTA;
Giulia Sprint GT; GTV Cup; 2000 GTV