Robert Coucher

The alpha-male appeal of the Alfa Romeo

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Observing that ‘every car enthusiast should own an Alfa Romeo’ has become a cliché among motoring journalists. Let me conflate that view and own up to having owned four: a 1959 101-series Giulietta Sprint, a 1964 105-series Giulia saloon, a late-1970s Alfasud and an Alfa Sprint of the same era. This month's Buying Guide features the Alfetta GTV, a model I haven't owned, though I’ve driven a few. When at varsity, years ago, a friend had one and he'd let me take him home when he'd had too many beers.

Where I grew up, Alfa Romeos were regarded as a bit racy. The types who drove them were alpha males with a bit too much ready cash and slightly-too-tight trousers. Ford Cortina and Mercedes-Benz drivers kept well clear of them. Alfa Romeo SA was active in the South African racing scene and especially so in the production Group N class. So the cars were relatable: race ‘em on Sunday, buy ‘em on Monday.