Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA 1600
The Giulia Sprint GTA 1600 represented the first wave of Autodelta's lightweight competition program based on the Bertone-styled Sprint GT coupe. The 'Alleggerita' (lightened) treatment involved replacing every possible steel panel with aluminum, including the doors, bonnet, boot lid, and even the dashboard. Combined with Perspex side windows and lightweight interior trim, the total weight dropped to around 745 kg — some 200 kg lighter than the standard car.
The 1570cc twin-cam engine was breathed upon by Autodelta's engineers, receiving a higher-lift camshaft, polished and ported head, twin Weber 45 DCOE carburetors, and a freer-flowing exhaust. In road trim this produced 115 hp at 6,000 rpm, but race-specification GTAs extracted over 170 hp and could rev to 7,500 rpm. The five-speed gearbox provided close ratios well-suited to circuit work.
On track, the GTA was devastating in its class. Alfa Romeo's works team and numerous privateers dominated the under-1600cc touring car category throughout Europe. The car's combination of light weight, willing engine, and excellent chassis balance made it a joy to drive on the limit, and many drivers considered it the finest front-engined, rear-drive racing car of its displacement class.
The early 1963-vintage cars are especially prized by collectors for their historical significance as the first of the GTA line. Surviving examples with documented racing history command significant premiums.
Authentication is critical — many steel Sprint GTs have been converted to GTA specification. Look for Autodelta chassis plate and build documentation. Verify alloy body with magnet test. Engine internals should match GTA specification including correct camshafts and cylinder head.
Built by Autodelta from 1965, based on Giulia Sprint GT bodies supplied by Bertone. The alloy panels were hand-formed and fitted individually to each car.