MG METRO TURBO
Catch me if you can
YEAR: 1973
The Giulia (series 105.26) is a movie car; one could almost say that for Italians it is THE movie car. The DeLorean from “Back To The Future” or “Christine”’s Plymouth Fury pale in comparison. True icon of an era, the Giulia performed stunts and spectacular accidents for over a decade as the protagonist, in Italy and abroad, of countless detective films. Looking at the Giulia will suddenly catapult you back to the ’70s, engaged in a desperate escape or a car chase with blaring sirens. The Super 1.6 on this page, one of the so-called “Biscione”, is amongst the most sought-after specimens.
The Giulia was presented in Monza in June 1962 and exposed to the critical eye of journalists who did not look kindly upon its innovative lines, completely different from previous models. But this Alfa did not only boast an original design, thanks to a body developed in the wind tunnel, but also the first programmed deformation structure: a true world debut. For the first time, the body was divided into three parts: the front and rear sections were meant to soften the effects of a collision in the central part, the passenger area, all with the purpose of protecting the passengers. Mechanicals components were also involved in this process, such as the steering box that, positioned further back, was built to prevent the wheel from hitting the driver. The project was followed with particular attention during its development phase, with a test phase of a million kilometres. Not only a “sporty heart” then, but a car launched towards the future, with original solutions in terms of safety and reliability.
The Giulia was produced in the 1.3 and 1.6 engine versions, which during the years were subjected to several updates and modifications (1.6 TI, Bollino Oro, 1.6 S…).
In 1969 the Giulia Super 1.6 “Biscione” was introduced, recognisable by the two snake badges on the rear pillars and some improvements, like the heated rear window and the chrome trims on the rocker panels. Later, the Giulia Super 1.6 was updated from 98 to 104 hp. The Alfa Romeo Giulia production—which was also equipped with the first diesel engine of the marque—lasted until 1976, but due to the high production rhythm of the new factory many new vehicles could still be found in dealerships even three or four years later.
Driving experience – Effective and modern
At that time, saloons in direct competition with the Giulia had top speeds between 140 and 160 km/h: it is easy to imagine that the nearly 180 km/h achieved by the Giulia Super 1.6 were considered science fiction.
I chose this car after a test drive lasted barely ten kilometres, captivated by its legendary roadholding and its engine’s progressive power delivery, features that make it more palatable compared to many other cars from the same period.
Light, agile and extremely responsive, the Giulia Super 1.6 is a great historical car for everyday use. No matter if it is daily commute or a Sunday gathering, this fifty-year-old can be taken on a carefree drive downtown just as easily as it can tackle difficult pin turns, where the rear-wheel drive and the two 2-barrel carburettors rouse long-forgotten emotions.
Falling in love with this car is natural, even for non Alfistas.
Passione Classica’s Alfa Romeo Giulia Super 1.6
Passione Classica’s Biscione is one of the last produced (‘69–’72) and is equipped with the engine with code 00526/A. This “matching number” vehicle went through a meticulous restoration that involved the engine as well. Built in the colour combination “metallic medium grey – Cinghiale Maremma” (see: Alfa Romeo’s certificate of origin), it is in great condition even in regards to panels and upholstery. This car sports its first square number plate, and carries its original registration booklet. It is ASI certified.
Beautiful like in a film… and ready for the getaway.
Driving experience – Effective and modern
At that time, saloons in direct competition with the Giulia had top speeds between 140 and 160 km/h: it is easy to imagine that the nearly 180 km/h achieved by the Giulia Super 1.6 were considered science fiction.
I chose this car after a test drive lasted barely ten kilometres, captivated by its legendary roadholding and its engine’s progressive power delivery, features that make it more palatable compared to many other cars from the same period.
Light, agile and extremely responsive, the Giulia Super 1.6 is a great historical car for everyday use. No matter if it is daily commute or a Sunday gathering, this fifty-year-old can be taken on a carefree drive downtown just as easily as it can tackle difficult pin turns, where the rear-wheel drive and the two 2-barrel carburettors rouse long-forgotten emotions.
Falling in love with this car is natural, even for non Alfistas.
Passione Classica’s Alfa Romeo Giulia Super 1.6
Passione Classica’s Biscione is one of the last produced (‘69–’72) and is equipped with the engine with code 00526/A. This “matching number” vehicle went through a meticulous restoration that involved the engine as well. Built in the colour combination “metallic medium grey – Cinghiale Maremma” (see: Alfa Romeo’s certificate of origin), it is in great condition even in regards to panels and upholstery. This car sports its first square number plate, and carries its original registration booklet. It is ASI certified.
Beautiful like in a film… and ready for the getaway.