Alfa Romeo Montreal 2.6 V8
The Alfa Romeo Montreal began life as a concept car displayed at the 1967 Montreal Expo, where its Bertone-designed bodywork caused a sensation. Public demand was so strong that Alfa Romeo put it into production in 1970, but with a crucial upgrade: the concept's modest four-cylinder engine was replaced by a detuned version of the glorious V8 from the Tipo 33 sports racing car.
The 2,593cc V8 featured SPICA mechanical fuel injection, four overhead camshafts, and dry-sump lubrication — exotic specification for a production car. Detuned from the race engine's 270+ hp to a more manageable 200 hp at 6,500 rpm, it nonetheless provided thrilling performance with an unforgettable exhaust note that ranged from a mechanical whir at idle to a full-throated howl at the 7,000 rpm redline.
Bertone's Marcello Gandini created the Montreal's striking design, which featured prominent NACA ducts on the C-pillars, dramatic slatted covers over the headlights, and muscular rear haunches. The overall effect was both aggressive and elegant — a genuine grand tourer that looked like it could win races.
Despite its undeniable appeal, the Montreal was hampered by high pricing, the complexity of its racing-derived engine, and unfortunate timing — it launched just as the oil crisis was about to devastate the sports car market. Only about 3,925 were built, and the Montreal remained undervalued for decades before collectors recognized its unique combination of race-bred V8 and striking design.
The SPICA fuel injection system is complex and few mechanics understand it — budget for specialist maintenance. V8 cam chain tensioners are a known weak point and failure can be catastrophic. Rust in sills, floors, and rear wheel arches is common. Electrical system uses unique components. LHD models are far more common than RHD.
Built from 1970 to 1977 at Alfa Romeo's Arese factory near Milan. The car was never officially sold in the United States due to emissions regulations.