Jul 10, 2020  •  For Sale  •  7 Comments

23k Mile 1988 Alfa Romeo Spider Graduate

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Broadly speaking, classic Alfa Romeos seem to fall into two distinct camps. On the one hand, you will find spotless survivors that have been pampered throughout their lives. Others will tend to be tired and worn and will be beginning to develop that unmistakeable brown tinge that signifies the onset of rust problems. This 1988 Spider Graduate appears to fall into the former category because its overall condition looks to be quite stunning. It has also made an impression since being listed for sale here on eBay because the bidding has been strong. The Spider is located in Mission Viejo, California, and bidding has now reached $8,800. The reserve has been met, meaning that a new home is on the horizon for this Italian classic.

The condition of the Alfa Red Spider is extremely impressive. The paint is holding a beautiful shine and is said to be 100% original. The owner identifies a single chip on one exterior mirror as the only fault. Scrutinizing the photos, I have to agree with his claim because it is one of the nicest Spiders that I have seen for a while. Rust seems to be non-existent, while the exterior trim and chrome appear to be perfect. The Alfa comes with a factory hardtop, which includes a storage stand for when it is not in use. The convertible top looks to be in good condition, although the rear window is beginning to develop a cloudy appearance. The alloy wheels are free from curb strike and staining, and the owner also includes a spare set of wheels in the sale. Right now, I am picturing myself cruising down the road on a sunny day in this Alfa with the wind in my hair. It is a tempting proposition.

The first thing that you notice when you look inside the Spider is the leather aftermarket seat covers. Usually, I’m not a fan of these sorts of things, but these suit the Alfa well. They provide effective protection for the original upholstery, and the color combination matches the rest of the car perfectly. Under those covers, the original leather upholstery is in impressive condition. There is some slight stretching on the driver’s seat, but no signs of rips, tears, or edge wear. The rest of the interior presents exceptionally well, with no signs of any wear or issues. There is a Pioneer CD player fitted in place of the factory stereo, but the rest of the interior appears to be original. The Graduate was introduced as an affordable version of the Spider. As such, it isn’t loaded with luxury features. However, this one does come fitted with air conditioning.

There are no engine photos, but we do know that the Alfa is powered by a fuel-injected DOHC 1,962cc 4-cylinder engine. This little gem produces 115hp, which finds its way to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission. The owner claims that the Spider has traveled a genuine 23,000 miles and that he holds documentary evidence to verify this claim. Alfas can be highly-strung, and if they aren’t properly maintained, that can be a recipe for mechanical dramas. Reassuringly, this Spider has been serviced by an independent Alfa Romeo specialist. The owner does state that this specialist is well known on the west coast. We are assured by the owner that the Alfa has no mechanical issues.

I get the impression from the listing that the owner of this 1988 Spider Graduate doesn’t want to part with the Italian classic that he has named “Angelina.” In fact, he virtually begs the successful bidder to take good care of her. I can understand why he feels this way because this is a beautiful car that is in exceptional condition. It is not only a low-mileage and original survivor, but it is also finished in what is the most desirable color combination. It is possible to find the occasional 1988 Graduate in reasonable condition for around $10,000. However, spotless examples can easily sell for prices of more than $15,000. Occasionally, they can even push on towards $20,000. This Spider would appear to be a car that is capable of pushing into that sort of territory. Therefore, if it sells for anywhere around its current bidding range, it could be a pretty canny buy. However, something tells me that this isn’t likely to happen.

Comments

  1. Fahrvergnugen FarhvergnugenMember
    Jul 10, 2020 at 7:09am

    Bellisima, cara Angelina!

    Like 4
  2. djjerme
    Jul 10, 2020 at 10:49am

    I respectfully disagree, those seat covers are tacky as heck and look weird in there. I’d want to see what is under them before I thought about purchasing.

    Like 6
  3. Armstrongpsyd Douglas
    Jul 10, 2020 at 11:49am

    I paused when I saw the seat covers too, but they’d not deter me from this classic Italian sports car. Seats are one of the easiest things you can fix on a car. If you buy a perfect car, what are you going to do when you’re not driving it?

    Like 0
  4. John Oliveri
    Jul 10, 2020 at 12:42pm

    Gotta tell ya, if I could afford a 3rd garage and a 3 rd toy, this car took me, and I’m not a Alfa fan by any means,but Angelina has got eyes, and a body, she’s a beautiful thing

    Like 5
  5. Claudio
    Jul 11, 2020 at 6:10am

    I can hear Angelina begging for heart transplant ! ITS LS TIME AGAIN ! Its nice to have the looks but the performance is important

    Just like that beautiful girlfriend that use to lay flat and wait ! You got bored and moved on !

    Like 0
  6. On and On On and OnMember
    Jul 11, 2020 at 6:32am

    I’ve always wanted an Alfa Spider. I’ve still got the itch and want to try one. Is there an Alfa dude out there that can advise me on best years and desirability? Any input would be appreciated. I keep remembering the commercial on TV that said “Alfa, take me home the long way” ……………..Good times.

    Like 0
  7. araknid78
    Jul 14, 2020 at 10:20am

    Ended: Jul 11, 2020 , 6:00PM
    Winning bid:US $20,250.00
    [ 44 bids ]

    Item location:
    Mission Viejo, California

    Like 0

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