Moving to Italy for 3 Years - Buy a Beater Ferrari or Aston Martin???

[Bulletpruf]

Fellas -

Just found out that the wife, daughter, and I are headed to Naples, Italy for our next tour (active duty Army). We'll be there for 2-3 years.

What would you buy if you had $30k to spend on a classic Italian sports car? I can swing a Ferrari Mondial, but that's a lot of flash and not much dash. I could find a beater Ferrari 308, but at 6'4" and 230 lbs, I don't think I can fit into one. A Ferrari/Dino 308 GT4 is an option, but prices are all over the map on these. A 348 would be at the top of my budget, but could probably find one with some looking around. Could do a 456, too; would fit into this, but top of the budget, and really a different car than the others listed above.

What about a late 60's/early 70's Fiat Dino coupe? The cars with the 2.4 V6 were built at Maranello alongside the Ferrari 246's, using the same engine and transmission. You can get a nice coupe for about $25k. I don't think the aftermarket support is great; would probably have to scrounge for interior and trim pieces, too.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/800pxFiat_Dino_2400_Bertone_2_zpsgmeb8df-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Cars/Italian%20Cars/800px-Fiat_Dino_2400_Bertone_2_zpsgmeb8df3.jpg.html)

Or maybe a late '60's/early '70's Alfa GTV 1750 or 2000? LOTS of aftermarket support and they make really neat race cars.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/aa44c719235497c8932dd656e34fdd0e_zpsop39-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Cars/Italian%20Cars/aa44c719235497c8932dd656e34fdd0e_zpsop39yk6v.jpg.h tml)

Some of the TVR's look very nice, but I think they are all RHD.

Speaking of British cars, the Jensen Interceptors can be had for less than $30k. Neat looking car with American muscle (383 or 440 Chrysler).

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/jensenside_zpsbquojilt-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Cars/Italian%20Cars/jensen-side_zpsbquojilt.jpg.html)

A Pantera would be very nice, too, but I think they are out of reach; at $30k, I'm looking at a project car.

A Lancia Delta Integrale would be neat, but a bit newer than the other cars I'm looking at. Start out at about $12,000. Along those same lines -- the Ford Escort Cosworth RS -- very quick AWD car with a 2.0 (or is it 2.3?) turbo that you can squeeze a lot of hp from.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/800pxFord_Escort_RS_Cosworth_zpskr3ksllb-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Cars/Italian%20Cars/800px-Ford_Escort_RS_Cosworth_zpskr3ksllb.jpg.html)

Lots of other options, of course, in my price range, but lots of stuff that I can buy in the states -- Audi RS4 and RS6, AMG Mercedes, Aston Martin DB7 with V12, BMW M3/M5/M6, etc.

Cars 25 years old or older would be nice; easy to take back to the U.S.

For reliable transportation we'll have the wife's SUV - 2013 Infiniti FX37.

Your thoughts?

Scott

[vintageracer]

With an average condition Ferrari in the sub $30K price range buying the car is the cheapest part of ownership. Ferrari's are still expensive to service/repair in Italy. Thoroughly research the "cost of ownership" for the Ferrari model you would like to own. You may change your mind very quickly. Concerning the Fiat Ferrari's they are just that a CHEAP wanna be Ferrari. Remember the car you buy is the car you have to sell at some point.

Since you mention the 25 year import rule and your desire for a 25 year or older car consider something that was not sold in the US when new but would be desirable NOW to buyers in the US. Car's such as a Renault Turbo R5, a Cosworth powered Rally car or something in the era that can sell for big $'s in the US. Since you have no issues with the import of a car such as that (military) you might just make a very handsome profit if you bring the car to the US and buy smart on the front end!

[redsixty9]

Dude! What's wrong with the Willy's style VW in the background of the last picture. It's Ferrari Red to boot..

[mmosley]

Alpine-Renault A110!

Or a Porsche 911

Rally car is definitely an option.

[srh3trinity]

I like the alfa or interceptor

[Interceptor5588]

Any early Lambos at that price? Some of them were pretty cool.

[Bulletpruf]

Any early Lambos at that price? Some of them were pretty cool.

Absolutely! Early Lambo's are all over for $30k, in great condition!

I'll post some pictures of some in a few minutes; I have to go feed my unicorn right now.:razz:

[Bulletpruf]

With an average condition Ferrari in the sub $30K price range buying the car is the cheapest part of ownership. Ferrari's are still expensive to service/repair in Italy. Thoroughly research the "cost of ownership" for the Ferrari model you would like to own. You may change your mind very quickly. Concerning the Fiat Ferrari's they are just that a CHEAP wanna be Ferrari. Remember the car you buy is the car you have to sell at some point.

Since you mention the 25 year import rule and your desire for a 25 year or older car consider something that was not sold in the US when new but would be desirable NOW to buyers in the US. Car's such as a Renault Turbo R5, a Cosworth powered Rally car or something in the era that can sell for big $'s in the US. Since you have no issues with the import of a car such as that (military) you might just make a very handsome profit if you bring the car to the US and buy smart on the front end!

I can do my own work; not worried about labor on a Ferrari. Parts are another story; not much I can do about that.

Also, don't mistake my budget for the limits of my disposable income. I will have significant funds to spend on a car above and beyond purchase price.

Really don't think of a Fiat Dino as a cheap wannabe Ferrari. More like a very nice Fiat that just happens to have a Ferrari 246 engine, trans, and other bits (brakes, too, I think).

Checked out the Renault Turbo R5; looks like a fun car but not really what I'm looking for.

Have been paying attention to prices in the U.S., but not seeing anything yet where I would make a real killing, and that's not my primary goal here.

Thanks

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

I like the alfa or interceptor


Really liking the Alfa's. Interceptor appeals to me, but they're a bit portly at 3,500 lbs. Parts scrounging would be a problem, too. And the proportions aren't great; something that would have to grow on me.

Thanks

[Bulletpruf]

Alpine-Renault A110!

Or a Porsche 911

Rally car is definitely an option.


Alpine Renault 110 was a new one for me. Interesting car, but appears to be underpowered (even though it's very light) and fairly expensive. Not my niche.

911 is an option, but leaning towards something Italian.

Thanks

Scott

[JustJohn]

I would look carefully at parking and driving in Italy if you haven't done it before. Driving through and spending time in the larger cities is a nightmare if you have an unwieldy car or one you care about the paint/body work on. I became very accustomed to driving in Germany while I lived there and the Med countries are just a different experience. Not a lot of places to drive full throttle so you likely won't miss having a lot of horsepower.
The classic cars do get a lot of respect in European countries though. I would have enjoyed touring in mid-size American muscle.

[BMR Sales]

I'd rock an American car in Europe and be a Rock Star! It would get looks & comments that a car that the locals have seen a bunch of time would not get

[groho]

I just got back from Italy on an extended vacation. The traffic is crazy, parking is insane, and honestly, even with a family there's no reason for a car. The public transportation is amazing, clean, and cheap. My suggestion, buy a POS while you're there to beat on (cuz they don't car what you drive) and dump it when you head home. What ever you get there is going to get beat to crap, so it isn't worth spending the money. Save your money and buy what you want once you get back to CONUS. If you do elect to buy something there, look at the cost of shipping it back, AND, the ability to register it here in the states. You may be surprised at the costs, its not cheap. Good luck, have fun, the food is amazing, stay away from the tourist traps. P.S. my niece is with NATO in Italy, even they were saying owning a car is not worth the effort, costs, and maintenance, but if you have to get one, buy a reliable POS, if you can work on it yourself, more power to you.

[Roadrage David]

Buy a bmw 750i v12 from 2000. put a procarger in it chip tune the limitation out of the system. and be done with it for a tottal of 10.000 and have a sleeper that beats the crap out of all of them. going at 200mph ez. on the auto strada.... A trip to Germany,s Authobahn tru Austria(avoid swiss as the plague) and you wil be in car heaven if you got the balls for it

[Bulletpruf]

I would look carefully at parking and driving in Italy if you haven't done it before. Driving through and spending time in the larger cities is a nightmare if you have an unwieldy car or one you care about the paint/body work on. I became very accustomed to driving in Germany while I lived there and the Med countries are just a different experience. Not a lot of places to drive full throttle so you likely won't miss having a lot of horsepower.
The classic cars do get a lot of respect in European countries though. I would have enjoyed touring in mid-size American muscle.

I've done some research on driving in southern Italy and Naples. Naples is pure freaking anarchy! Should be fun! Definitely have been paying attention to size of cars; driving a larger car is asking for trouble.

Thanks,

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

I'd rock an American car in Europe and be a Rock Star! It would get looks & comments that a car that the locals have seen a bunch of time would not get

Really not too concerned about how much attention it gets. Frankly, less attention is better.

Thanks

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

I just got back from Italy on an extended vacation. The traffic is crazy, parking is insane, and honestly, even with a family there's no reason for a car. The public transportation is amazing, clean, and cheap. My suggestion, buy a POS while you're there to beat on (cuz they don't car what you drive) and dump it when you head home. What ever you get there is going to get beat to crap, so it isn't worth spending the money. Save your money and buy what you want once you get back to CONUS. If you do elect to buy something there, look at the cost of shipping it back, AND, the ability to register it here in the states. You may be surprised at the costs, its not cheap. Good luck, have fun, the food is amazing, stay away from the tourist traps. P.S. my niece is with NATO in Italy, even they were saying owning a car is not worth the effort, costs, and maintenance, but if you have to get one, buy a reliable POS, if you can work on it yourself, more power to you.

Pretty much set on buying something over there, and I've never been accused of being practical.

Will cost about $2k to ship in a container from Naples to the East Coast.

I can register something in the states as long as it's 25 years old.

Thanks,

Scott

[mmosley]

Alpine Renault 110 was a new one for me. Interesting car, but appears to be underpowered (even though it's very light) and fairly expensive. Not my niche.

911 is an option, but leaning towards something Italian.

Thanks

Scott

Scott- my suggestions were based on my driving time in German cities, I imagine Italian cities to be just as tight without the courtesy and predictability of German drivers. My most recent trip was in the Munich area. I was driving a Seat Ibiza rental car. I would like to have something with more power, but would not want to drive anything bigger. It was perfect for the cities. Considering it was snowing more power would not have been of much use about half the time I was there. But it was flat painful driving the Seat on the Autobahn. I think a 911 is the right size, I suggested the Alpine because of its rally heritage and rear engine layout. I personally think the Alpine would be a great car to play with while over there. The 911 should be readily available and easy to get parts for. If you want "authentic" Italian flavor you could even look at an old Fiat 595 / 695 Abarth. Maybe not your style. Sounds like you are looking for something more muscular. Personally - like I said - I would look to buy a set up Rally car that someone has to sell and go play even if it is light on power. You are only there 3 years - go native - and enjoy yourself, don't spend 3 years building a car.

[pollusky]

Just buy a camaro and ship it overseas

[Bulletpruf]

Scott- my suggestions were based on my driving time in German cities, I imagine Italian cities to be just as tight without the courtesy and predictability of German drivers. My most recent trip was in the Munich area. I was driving a Seat Ibiza rental car. I would like to have something with more power, but would not want to drive anything bigger. It was perfect for the cities. Considering it was snowing more power would not have been of much use about half the time I was there. But it was flat painful driving the Seat on the Autobahn. I think a 911 is the right size, I suggested the Alpine because of its rally heritage and rear engine layout. I personally think the Alpine would be a great car to play with while over there. The 911 should be readily available and easy to get parts for. If you want "authentic" Italian flavor you could even look at an old Fiat 595 / 695 Abarth. Maybe not your style. Sounds like you are looking for something more muscular. Personally - like I said - I would look to buy a set up Rally car that someone has to sell and go play even if it is light on power. You are only there 3 years - go native - and enjoy yourself, don't spend 3 years building a car.

Yeah, the Fiat 595 is REALLY not the car for me. Looking for something sporty. The Alfa GTV 1750/2000 (late 60's/early 70's) is probably a good mixture of size, power, aftermarket support, character, price point, etc.

If I decide to get something newer, still leaning towards a smaller AWD turbo - Lancia Delta Integrale HF or perhaps a Escort Cosworth.

I enjoy the hell out of wrenching (even more than I enjoy driving), so building a car would be a great pastime for me.

Thanks

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

Just buy a camaro and ship it overseas

Sorry, but that makes zero sense to me. I can buy and drive Camaros for the rest of my life but this will likely be my only opportunity to drive a beater Ferrari or Aston Martin...

Scott

[Gil]

http://www.subito.it/auto/maserati-quattroporte-4-2-v8-executive-gtxenon-roma-117739525.htm

for you & familly ?

http://www.subito.it is a good sales site in IT. Enjoy !

Gil

[JustJohn]

Well that changes things a bit. Have you found the European auto traders yet?


Sorry, but that makes zero sense to me. I can buy and drive Camaros for the rest of my life but this will likely be my only opportunity to drive a beater Ferrari or Aston Martin...

Scott

[Josh@Ridetech]

[COLOR=#000000][FONT=verdana]Fellas -

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/03/aa44c719235497c8932dd656e34fdd0e_zpsop39-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Cars/Italian%20Cars/aa44c719235497c8932dd656e34fdd0e_zpsop39yk6v.jpg.h tml)


All day!

[andrewb70]

Sorry, but that makes zero sense to me. I can buy and drive Camaros for the rest of my life but this will likely be my only opportunity to drive a beater Ferrari or Aston Martin...

Scott

Scott,

Can you show me a For Sale ad for a "beater" Ferrari or Aston Martin?

Andrew

[JustJohn]

Some of the pricing isn't terrible:
http://fahrzeuge.autoscout24.de/?mmvmk0=8&make=8&kmto=&fregto=&zip=PLZ&zipr=&cy=D&mmvco=1&page=1&maxresults=500&results=20&sort=price&desc=0&rfde=True&pool=1&zipc=D&vis=1&state=D&dtr=s

http://fahrzeuge.autoscout24.de/?atype=C&make=27&mmvmk0=27&mmvco=1&cy=D&zip=PLZ&zipc=D&ustate=N,U&sort=price&results=20&page=1&event=||make&dtr=s

Sorry it's in German, that's the only Euro language I speak other than English.

[JustJohn]

Here's the ones in Italy:
http://fahrzeuge.autoscout24.de/?atype=C&make=27&mmvmk0=27&mmvco=1&cy=I&zip=PLZ&zipc=D&ustate=N,U&sort=price&results=20&page=1&dtr=s

http://fahrzeuge.autoscout24.de/?atype=C&make=8&mmvmk0=8&mmvco=1&cy=I&zip=PLZ&zipc=D&ustate=N,U&sort=price&results=20&page=1&event=||make&dtr=s

Interesting that an Aston Martin Cygnet can be had for the same price as a DB7.

Hadn't looked at autoscout.de in a while so I got carried away.
Lambos: http://fahrzeuge.autoscout24.de/?atype=C&make=41&mmvmk0=41&mmvco=1&pricefrom=1000&cy=I&ustate=N,U&sort=price&results=20&page=1&dtr=s
Alphas: http://fahrzeuge.autoscout24.de/?atype=C&make=6&mmvmk0=6&mmvco=1&pricefrom=1000&cy=I&ustate=N,U&sort=price&results=20&page=1&event=||make&dtr=s
Maserati: http://fahrzeuge.autoscout24.de/?atype=C&make=45&mmvmk0=45&mmvco=1&pricefrom=1000&cy=I&ustate=N,U&sort=price&results=20&page=1&event=||make&dtr=s

[Bulletpruf]

http://www.subito.it/auto/maserati-quattroporte-4-2-v8-executive-gtxenon-roma-117739525.htm

for you & familly ?

http://www.subito.it is a good sales site in IT. Enjoy !

Gil

Gil -

Definitely a nice car, but looking for something a bit older and less refined.

I've been looking on subito.it - probably the best site that I've found.

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

Well that changes things a bit. Have you found the European auto traders yet?

Are you talking about Auto Trader magazine or Europeans who trade autos?

[Bulletpruf]

All day!


Yeah, those are a pretty good mix of size, power, character, price, etc. Great aftermarket support, which helps, and they make great little track cars, too.

[Bulletpruf]

Scott,

Can you show me a For Sale ad for a "beater" Ferrari or Aston Martin?

Andrew


Andrew -

It's all relative, isn't it? A beater Escort may set you back $500. A "beater" Ferrari Mondial can be had for $20k. A 308 GT4 about $30k. Aston Martin DB7 with a V12 can be had for around $30k if you do some shopping around.

Pasted from JustJohn's post:

http://ww4.autoscout24.de/fahrzeuge?mmvmk0=8&make=8&kmto=&fregto=&zip=PLZ&zipr=&cy=D&mmvco=1&page=1&maxresults=500&results=20&sort=price&desc=0&rfde=True&pool=1&zipc=D&vis=1&state=D&dtr=s

http://ww4.autoscout24.de/fahrzeuge?atype=C&make=27&mmvmk0=27&mmvco=1&cy=D&zip=PLZ&zipc=D&ustate=N,U&sort=price&results=20&page=1&event=%7C%7Cmake&dtr=s

Thanks

Scott

[Motorcitydak]

Without question I would be snapping up that Alfa that you posted that pic of

[TheJDMan]

Is Italy RH or LH steer?

[Gil]

Left, only GB is RH in EU
Gil

[DarkBuddha]

Btw, Escort Cosworth (aka Escos) is a 2L YB, which is based on the old school Pinto 2.0 block with a Cosworth designed DOHC head. Turbo/injectors/tune and it's good for 400hp+. Mixed with AWD and the short wheelbase, and it should be good for epic amounts of fun.

That said, being in Italy, I say buy Italian. Old Alfa or Lancia, or even the right Fiat. Buy something fun, collectable, and bring-backable.

[indyjps]

Research the market difference between here and there and ship multiple cars back to the states. Call Wayne Carini or a similar high end sales guy and explain your situation, ship the cars to a US sales person who can market and move them, at the end of 3 years bring back a 100k Ferrari.

I know a guy with family in arizona, he quit his job and just buys western cars and brings them back to the midwest.

[xavier296]

A lot of these answers are funny. I lived in Naples for my last tour, and brought my 600 hp 03 Cobra with me. You can use significantly more of your car's HP in Italy then in the US. I drove fast and accelerated quickly everywhere I went. It was perfect and I miss it terribly. I also brought a 25 year old BMW motorcycle back with me and had no trouble. I bought the bike in the UK, but it shouldn't be much different.

Labor is cheap in Italy, parts are expensive. If you buy a european exotic that you could get in the states, it will almost always be more economical to buy parts from the US and have them shipped FPO to you. An alternator for a honda civic is 500 euros in Italy and the install cost would be 30 euros.

Make sure you get a nice garage if they let you live out in town. Out of sight, out of mind works well for Italians. We lived in Licola and loved it.

I can hook you up with an Italian car buddy in Naples if you want some help locating the right car and dealing with the seller. He's not a dealer and wouldn't want any money, he is just in the scene and knows everyone. He speaks English and they own a powder coating shop. He just finished restoring an E-type and has a bunch of classic Nortons and other bikes.

I realize this isn't what you want, but a few friends brought old cars back, and they made lots of money on classic minis and Land rovers. They would fly up and buy them in the UK, drive them in Italy, take em back, and make 300% profit. If you can find a sports car that is expensive in the states but plentiful in Europe, that is the way to go.

[hotrodalex]

Alfa GTV 2000 or Ferrari 308 GTB.

And then bring it to the US when you're done!

[Buryingthesun]

http://ww3.autoscout24.de/classified/267409205?asrc=st|as

/thread

[wendell]

If you're going to be there for 3 years I'd buy a 22yo Integral or Escos. You'll have a ton of fun daily driving it and KNOW you'll get out of it w/ a good bit of profit. Put the rest of the budget into what ever EU car that you're truly passionate about knowing that at when you head home you'll likely get a little profit out of it. I like the GTVs but 2002s are cool too.

Lastly, WHAT EVER YOU DO, keep your eyes peeled for cheap 911s. In any shape, they're free money over here these days.

[Bulletpruf]

Btw, Escort Cosworth (aka Escos) is a 2L YB, which is based on the old school Pinto 2.0 block with a Cosworth designed DOHC head. Turbo/injectors/tune and it's good for 400hp+. Mixed with AWD and the short wheelbase, and it should be good for epic amounts of fun.

That said, being in Italy, I say buy Italian. Old Alfa or Lancia, or even the right Fiat. Buy something fun, collectable, and bring-backable.

Agree 100%. Think the Escos would be a blast, but leaning towards a GTV 1750/2000. Lancia Fulvia's are nice, too, but front wheel drive just about kills that for me.

Thanks

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

If you're going to be there for 3 years I'd buy a 22yo Integral or Escos. You'll have a ton of fun daily driving it and KNOW you'll get out of it w/ a good bit of profit. Put the rest of the budget into what ever EU car that you're truly passionate about knowing that at when you head home you'll likely get a little profit out of it. I like the GTVs but 2002s are cool too.

Lastly, WHAT EVER YOU DO, keep your eyes peeled for cheap 911s. In any shape, they're free money over here these days.

Some of it will depend on where we end up living -- if we end up on base, I won't have a garage so will likely go with something newer - like the 22 y/o Escos or Delta Integrale.

If we end up off base, will end up with something with a bit more character, I think.

And if I sell another of my cars ($40,000 GTO 'vert or $30,000 Fairlane convt) AND we live off post, things are going to get very interesting!

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

A lot of these answers are funny. I lived in Naples for my last tour, and brought my 600 hp 03 Cobra with me. You can use significantly more of your car's HP in Italy then in the US. I drove fast and accelerated quickly everywhere I went. It was perfect and I miss it terribly. I also brought a 25 year old BMW motorcycle back with me and had no trouble. I bought the bike in the UK, but it shouldn't be much different.

Labor is cheap in Italy, parts are expensive. If you buy a european exotic that you could get in the states, it will almost always be more economical to buy parts from the US and have them shipped FPO to you. An alternator for a honda civic is 500 euros in Italy and the install cost would be 30 euros.

Make sure you get a nice garage if they let you live out in town. Out of sight, out of mind works well for Italians. We lived in Licola and loved it.

I can hook you up with an Italian car buddy in Naples if you want some help locating the right car and dealing with the seller. He's not a dealer and wouldn't want any money, he is just in the scene and knows everyone. He speaks English and they own a powder coating shop. He just finished restoring an E-type and has a bunch of classic Nortons and other bikes.

I realize this isn't what you want, but a few friends brought old cars back, and they made lots of money on classic minis and Land rovers. They would fly up and buy them in the UK, drive them in Italy, take em back, and make 300% profit. If you can find a sports car that is expensive in the states but plentiful in Europe, that is the way to go.

Thanks for the details. Sent you a pm.

Scott

[NJSPEEDER]

In and around most Italian cities you are going to want something small that won't be terrifying to get some dings and scratches on. With that in mind I would have to go Alfa. Great looking cars, mostly on the smallish side, always fun to drive (be it because the handling is inspired or terrifying just makes it that much more fun), and with the typical reliability of Italian cars you would at least be in the right country to find parts for repairs. :)

Enjoy the trip and check out the roads along the Amalfi Coast as soon as you get the chance. Everyone I know that has visited the area has come back saying they are the best driving roads in the world. www.amalfitouristoffice.it/

[TonyHuntimer]

Just buy a Ferrari and drop an LS engine in it! That would keep the cost of ownership way down.

;)
Tony Huntimer
TestCarDatabase.com

[Bulletpruf]

In and around most Italian cities you are going to want something small that won't be terrifying to get some dings and scratches on. With that in mind I would have to go Alfa. Great looking cars, mostly on the smallish side, always fun to drive (be it because the handling is inspired or terrifying just makes it that much more fun), and with the typical reliability of Italian cars you would at least be in the right country to find parts for repairs. :)

Enjoy the trip and check out the roads along the Amalfi Coast as soon as you get the chance. Everyone I know that has visited the area has come back saying they are the best driving roads in the world. www.amalfitouristoffice.it/

I hear what you're saying on dings and dents. Wouldn't want to use something pristine as a daily driver.

Very excited to drive the Amalfi coast in a vintage Italian car!

Thanks,

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

Hmmm....I think if I do an engine swap it will be swapping a small block Ford (built 347?), toploader 4 speed, and 9" into a 60's vintage Sunbeam Alpine...


Just buy a Ferrari and drop an LS engine in it! That would keep the cost of ownership way down.

;)
Tony Huntimer
TestCarDatabase.com

[Bulletpruf]

Ok, so we've been here a few weeks, and absolutely love it!

Picked up a super clean low mile 99 BMW 318i. Has a slushbox because the wife can't drive a stick. It's just something to get around in until the wife's SUV (Infiniti FX-37) arrives and I pick something up. If I play my cards, right, we'll keep the Bimmer so I don't need to drive the classic car if the weather is sh*tty.

Found a very nice house to rent a mile from work -- in a safe gated parco (subdivision). Oh, yeah, it has an ENORMOUS garage!

Driving here is pretty interesting. On the autostrade (highway/interstate), if the speed limit is 80 km/h, folks are either doing 70 km/h or 140 km/h. Not much in between. Have to watch it if you're in the left lane -- I usually keep it around 100 km/h and the folks coming up behind me are hauling a$$, blinking lights, etc.

I have driven a bit in Naples - sheer madness - but doable. No reason to go there except for shopping or sightseeing, neither of which appeal to me.

Starting to focus on car search -- looking like Alfa Romeo GT Junior, preferably 1968-1970 or so. The GT Junior's are just like the GTV's, but smaller engine, and much less expensive. Kind of like a Camaro SS vs. a Camaro with 327.

Scott

[TheJDMan]

Scott,
Please post pictures for those of us who have never been there.

[hotrodalex]

Ok, so we've been here a few weeks, and absolutely love it!
Starting to focus on car search -- looking like Alfa Romeo GT Junior, preferably 1968-1970 or so. The GT Junior's are just like the GTV's, but smaller engine, and much less expensive. Kind of like a Camaro SS vs. a Camaro with 327.

Scott

That'd be fun. :twothumbs

[Bulletpruf]

Scott,
Please post pictures for those of us who have never been there.

Steve -

Will do. Have to get some of my pics up on photo bucket first.

Thanks

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

Well, it's a done deal. After more searching I really narrowed it down to one car -- the 1965-1975 Alfa Romeo GT Junior/GTV. Second place was the Fiat Dino coupe, but a nice Alfa can be bought at half the cost of the Dino, parts are readily available, and there are 20 GT's for every Dino on the market.

I looked at several, but most were fluffed up turds with shoddy bodywork evident under shiny paint.

The car I ended up with is a 1972 GT Junior 1300. I picked it up for 12,000 euros, or about $13,500 U.S. It's quite original, and appears to have had only one repaint many years ago. The car will need a bit of metal work, but I don't think I will find too many surprises when I strip it down. FYI - the GT Juniors here in Italy (they were not exported to the U.S. when new) are much less expensive than a comparable GTV 1750 or GTV 2000. Kind of like the difference between a base Camaro and an SS396 -- same basic car, but trim and drivetrain differ somewhat.

Anyway, the car runs and drives now, but as soon as my tools arrive (they're on their way over from the U.S. now) and I get the garage set up, it will be time to set all ratchets to counter-clockwise and tear it apart for a full resto.

Will be interesting working on a DOHC all aluminum engine -- looks like a toy compared to the big American V-8s that I'm used to messing with, but at 2,000 lbs (and that's before I start removing weight), you don't need 500 hp to get it moving.

Plan is to maintain the stock-ish appearance, but with upgraded drivetrain (2 liter engine of the same vintage), upgraded suspension and brakes, and restored/upgraded interior. I'll bring it back to the states when I'm done.

Thanks for all the input!

Scott

At the Colosseum in Rome. We live about 2.5 hours south of Rome.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/11866351_10207468704615188_5586134169342-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Italy/11866351_10207468704615188_5586134169342753235_n_z psnojjfnal.jpg.html)

Amalfi Coast - Gorgeous scenery and incredible driving! About 30 minutes from northern suburbs of Naples where we live.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/11902553_10206071943652115_3057422459295-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Italy/11902553_10206071943652115_3057422459295625714_n_z ps85vz166f.jpg.html)

Sidewalk cafe - the CFO and I are enjoying our favorite "appetizer" - vino rosso!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/11896028_10207468720135576_2864290489998-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Italy/11896028_10207468720135576_2864290489998850646_n_z pszvozrmmj.jpg.html)

Our rental house. You can see Mount Vesuvius and the Mediterranean from the roof.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_3259_zpscpfetgdv-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/House/IMG_3259_zpscpfetgdv.jpg.html)

My new toy!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_3911_zps4h6jdsth-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Cars/72%20Alfa%20Romeo%20GT%201300/IMG_3911_zps4h6jdsth.jpg.html)

1.3L DOHC all aluminum 4 cylinder.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_3896_zpscjhxuq2n-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Cars/72%20Alfa%20Romeo%20GT%201300/IMG_3896_zpscjhxuq2n.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_3884_zpssvz3jekt-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Cars/72%20Alfa%20Romeo%20GT%201300/IMG_3884_zpssvz3jekt.jpg.html)

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2015/10/IMG_3872_zpsvxvlrq4d-1.jpg (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/sd_walters/media/Cars/72%20Alfa%20Romeo%20GT%201300/IMG_3872_zpsvxvlrq4d.jpg.html)

[TheJDMan]

Thanks for the pics, please keep them coming. Now that you have been there for a while, how does driving there compare to the states?

[hotrodalex]

Great choice!

[Bulletpruf]

Thanks for the pics, please keep them coming. Now that you have been there for a while, how does driving there compare to the states?

Driving here is pretty intense, even on the local version of the interstate (autostrade). The speed limit is normally about 70 kph. However, most folks are doing either 50 kph or or 180 kph. Not much in between, except for me -- tooling along at 100 kph. So I spend a lot of time in the slow lane coming close to running over the slowpokes and a lot of time in the left lane about to get run over by the folks who are hauling ass.

Driving in Naples seems like pure anarchy until you get the hang of it and then it's FUN! The larger roundabouts are a test of driving skill, luck, strategy, and balls. Go to YouTube and search "driving in Naples" to get a feel for it.

Scott

[BMR Sales]

Cool, keep the pictures & stories of adventures coming!

[DarkBuddha]

And down the rabbit hole he goes... a glorious, elegant, exciting, fun rabbit hole.

[Ghiaguy]

My wife had a temporary job assignment in Rome for a year, so being in construction, I went along for a 'vacation' LOL

We ended up walking or taking a taxi everywhere, because parking absolutely sucked.... But one of the things we were told was we were taking our lives into our own hands when we attempted to cross a street, and that was very true !!!! But we found that safest way to cross the street was to find a group of nuns and shadow them -- They would just launch themselves into traffic and you could hear the tires squealing LMAO.... We'd find ourselves going a couple of blocks out of our way at times just to 'live' in their shadow...

Have a great time while you're there, we loved it.... I think we might be there for a month driving vacation in March or April next year -- probably be up North around Venice, I think, but haven't been officially told where we'll be by the wife yet LOL (I'm just the driver you know)

[chetly]

that car is cool, just begging for some mini lites and slight lowering. I like it.

From one Vet to another, thanks for your service and have fun. I loved Sicily when we were there on a detachment.

[SPDMETL]

That blue thing at the top of your first post is really good looking. I vote for an LS3 550 Maranello...it would even run!

[Twentyover]

that car is cool, just begging for some Campagnola wheels and slight lowering. I like it.

From one Vet to another, thanks for your service and have fun. I loved Sicily when we were there on a detachment.

Fixed for you

Unfortunately, don't know how to strikethrough on this forum

[Bulletpruf]

My wife had a temporary job assignment in Rome for a year, so being in construction, I went along for a 'vacation' LOL

We ended up walking or taking a taxi everywhere, because parking absolutely sucked.... But one of the things we were told was we were taking our lives into our own hands when we attempted to cross a street, and that was very true !!!! But we found that safest way to cross the street was to find a group of nuns and shadow them -- They would just launch themselves into traffic and you could hear the tires squealing LMAO.... We'd find ourselves going a couple of blocks out of our way at times just to 'live' in their shadow...

Have a great time while you're there, we loved it.... I think we might be there for a month driving vacation in March or April next year -- probably be up North around Venice, I think, but haven't been officially told where we'll be by the wife yet LOL (I'm just the driver you know)

Haven't been to Venice yet, but have traveled a bit around Europe for work -- Brussels, Macedonia (Skopje), Kosovo (Pristina). Headed to Bosnia Herzegovina (Sarajevo) on Monday.

Good tip about shadowing nuns!

Ciao,

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

that car is cool, just begging for some mini lites and slight lowering. I like it.

From one Vet to another, thanks for your service and have fun. I loved Sicily when we were there on a detachment.

Yeah, wheels and lowering would do wonders for it, but that's going to have to wait. It's in the process of being disassembled now. Started a build thread on it.

Thanks for your service, too!

Scott

[Bulletpruf]

That blue thing at the top of your first post is really good looking. I vote for an LS3 550 Maranello...it would even run!

The "blue thing" is a Fiat Dino 2.4 Coupe. The 2.4 coupes were made on the same production line as the Ferrari Dino's and shared many of the same parts, including the engine, transmission, and some of the suspension bits. Problem is that they are a bit pricey -- $25k for a decent one -- and aftermarket support is abysmal. And good luck finding sheet metal if you wreck it.

Thanks

Scott