All I Want for Christmas Is This 1971 Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior
Although Alfa Romeo’s current lineup is shrinking, the Italian brand’s classic models are still worth second or third looks. The 155 Q4 and the 75, for instance, could square off with contemporary M3s. And the Montreal has Lamborghini Miura looks at a significant discount. But this week’s special-edition Bring a Trailer bargain car is a bit simpler, though arguably more practical: a 1971 Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior.
The Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior comes from the brand’s post-war “golden age,” ItalClassic says
The Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior is one of the Italian brand’s 105-Series coupes, which are some of the brand’s most beloved classic cars, Silodrome reports. They were replacements for the earlier 101 Series, Alfaholics reports, and introduced the Giulia name, Automobile reports. And while the GT 1300 Junior isn’t called ‘Giulia,’ it has its own appeal.
Firstly, the Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior was the 2nd-lightest of the steel-bodied 105 coupes, AlfaBB forum users report. And given its somewhat entry-level design, it was fairly advanced for the time. The GT 1300 Junior has a 5-speed full-synchromesh transmission, independent front suspension, and 4-wheel disc brakes, Bonhams reports.
The Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior isn’t necessarily fast. Under the hood is a 1290cc four-cylinder engine rated at 89 hp, ItalClassics reports. While that was fairly powerful for the time, Automobile reports, there are sportier versions. For example, the even lighter GTA 1300 Junior, which had 110 hp in road-going form, and up to 180 hp in racing trim, Top Gear and FCA Heritage report.
But even so, the stock GT 1300 Junior is still a “driver’s car par excellence,” Bonhams reports. And style-wise, it still impresses, Automobile reports.
The 1971 Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior on Bring a Trailer
The 1971 Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior currently listed on Bring a Trailer isn’t a stock example. It has aftermarket 15” wheels, a Pioneer CD stereo, a 12V plug—instead of a cigarette lighter—and chrome bumpers without rubber over-riders. And it has a different engine.
Under the hood of this GT 1300 Junior is a 1.75-liter four-cylinder engine, which, like the original, has twin cams. And in the photos, it appears to be an Alfa Romeo engine. If it’s another 105-Series unit, that means this GT 1300 Junior has at least 118 hp.
This 1971 GT 1300 Junior also isn’t cosmetically perfect. During the body restoration in 2016, a rust spot was repaired by a patch panel. And the current owner had to refinish the lower fascia.
But it has a certificate of origin from the Alfa Romeo factory, a wood-trim dashboard, and leather upholstery. And as many of the Bring a Trailer commenters state, it’s arguably even more stylish than the contemporary BMW 2002.
You can get one for yourself, too
As of this writing, this 1971 GT 1300 Junior is listed on Bring a Trailer for $10,000 with six days left in the auction. Admittedly, classic Italian cars don’t always have the greatest reputation for reliability. But according to Petrolicious, with some slight modifications, the GT 1300 Junior can run fine on regular maintenance.
Plus, this car is something of a bargain. The average GT 1300 Junior typically goes for $20,000-$30,000 on Bring a Trailer. The GTA and Zagato models go for even higher. So, for the holidays this year, get yourself a little red Italian coupe.
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