Car & Classic are to feature an extremely rare 1953 Alfa Romeo 1900C Supergioiello steeped in competition history as part of a seven day auction from September 17th.

Launching in 1950 as the first post war production model that Alfa Romeo ever made, it helped shape a new future for the Italian marque and influenced the shorter Sprint coupé 1900C that arrived a year later. Coachbuilders Ghia produced the bodywork for this particular Alfa and it is one of six ever finished, despite the shell for 18-20 cars planned. The car up for auction is only one of three that are known to remain in the world today.

Chassis 01549 has a large racing pedigree and was first used in competition by Gumersindo Garcia Fernandez, a keen rally driver after being delivered to Spain in 1954. A year later it graced the famous Monte Carlo rally as well as further motorsport outings before being sold to Salvador Ros who rallied it between 1958 and 1961. Ultimately, an accident saw the end of its use in competition and for nearly 30 years it remained off the radar.

In 1990, the Alfa reappeared with a new owner who passed it on to a collector in Portugal. Extensive research into the car’s history uncovered photographs of its unique racing past, confirming its provenance. More recently, the 1900C has been fully restored to its factory finish of Metallic Copper by Cognolato in Italy and has only been driven 48 miles since. For adding racing history, its period correct livery includes its ‘400’ competition number.

The seven day auction starts on 17 September and the 1953 Alfa Romeo 1900C Supergioiello is estimated to sell for around £640,000.

Words: Mike Booth
Pictures: Car & Classic