Alfa Romeo Spider

vs

Alfa Romeo Spider

Italy vs Italy — 1966 vs 1971

Alfa Romeo Spider (1966)
Alfa Romeo Spider (1971)
Specifications
Spider 1750 Veloce (Duetto)Spider Veloce 2000
Horsepower118 hp132 hp
Torque116 lb-ft130 lb-ft
Engine Size1,779 cc1,962 cc
0-60 mph9.5 sec10.2 sec
Top Speed118 mph115 mph
¼ Mile17.0 sec17.5 sec
Weight2,315 lbs
Wheelbase2,250 mm2,250 mm
Length4,120 mm4,240 mm
Units Produced8,62066,750
Original MSRP$5,995
Value (Excellent)$70,000$55,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity3/105/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1966 Alfa Romeo Spider 1750 Veloce (Duetto) excels in quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity, while the 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce 2000 stands out for more power, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

Tracing the evolution of the Alfa Romeo Spider from 1966 to 1971 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Alfa Romeo. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1966 Alfa Romeo Spider 1750 Veloce (Duetto) producing 118 hp and the 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce 2000 delivering 132 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo Spider uses a Inline-4 DOHC 8V displacing 1,779 cc, while the Alfa Romeo Spider relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,962 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Alfa Romeo Spider 1750 Veloce (Duetto) edges ahead at 9.5 seconds versus 10.2 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 8,620 units built, the 1966 Alfa Romeo Spider 1750 Veloce (Duetto) is considerably scarcer than the Alfa Romeo Spider's 66,750 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce 2000 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.