1971 Alfa Romeo 1750 GTV: The Gran Turismo That Captured the Spirit of Driving

Engine1.8-liter (1,779 cc) inline-fourHorsepower130 bhp at 5,500 rpmTorque137 lb-ftEngine LocationFrontDrive TypeRWDWeight2,200 lbs | 1,000 kgTransmission5-speed manual

It’s a crisp morning on the Italian Riviera, and the 1971 Alfa Romeo 1750 GTV roars to life. With its twin-cam engine singing a high-revving symphony, the driver expertly navigates winding coastal roads, the car’s perfect balance and handling turning every curve into a work of art. The 1750 GTV wasn’t just a car—it was an experience, a statement of passion, and a testament to Alfa Romeo’s pursuit of perfection in design and performance.

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The 1971 Alfa Romeo 1750 GTV was powered by a 1.8-liter inline-four twin-cam engine, producing 122 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 127 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. It came with a 5-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD), offering drivers an engaging and spirited experience. Weighing approximately 2,300 lbs (1,043 kg), the car’s lightweight construction contributed to its nimble handling and sporty feel, making it a joy on both open roads and tight corners.

The Origins

Source: Vintage Car Collector

The Alfa Romeo 1750 GTV was part of the Tipo 105/115 series, which was introduced in the early 1960s as Alfa Romeo sought to modernize its lineup of compact sports cars. The series, designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro for Bertone, was known for its clean lines, balanced proportions, and timeless elegance.

The 1750 GTV, launched in 1967, was a successor to the Giulia Sprint GT Veloce and was named after its 1,750 cc engine. The car’s twin-cam engine, developed by Giuseppe Busso, was a technical marvel of its time, combining robust performance with excellent reliability. Its chassis featured a double-wishbone front suspension and a live rear axle, ensuring sharp handling and excellent road feedback.

Inside, the 1750 GTV offered a blend of luxury and sportiness, with bucket seats, a wood-trimmed dashboard, and a stylish instrument cluster. Alfa Romeo marketed the car as a “gran turismo,” capable of delivering exhilarating performance while remaining comfortable enough for long-distance touring.

The 1971 Model Year

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The 1971 Alfa Romeo 1750 GTV was the final production year for this iconic model before being replaced by the 2000 GTV. By this time, Alfa Romeo had perfected the 1750’s formula, offering subtle refinements to enhance the driving experience.

The 1.8-liter twin-cam engine retained its output of 122 horsepower, propelling the car to a top speed of approximately 118 mph. Paired with a slick-shifting 5-speed manual transmission, the engine provided smooth and responsive performance across the rev range. The car’s lightweight construction and 50:50 weight distribution made it a favorite among enthusiasts who valued precise handling and spirited driving.

The 1971 model featured minor updates to its interior and exterior, including improved seats and revised lighting elements. Approximately 36,000 units of the 1750 GTV were produced during its run, with the final models from 1971 being particularly desirable among collectors for their historical significance and rarity.

Did You Know?

Source: Vintage Car Collector

Bertone Design: The 1750 GTV was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro at Bertone, who later became one of the most influential car designers of all time.
Racing Pedigree: The 1750 GTV was a frequent competitor in European touring car championships, showcasing its performance capabilities on the track.
Advanced Engine: The twin-cam engine featured twin Weber carburetors, a hallmark of Alfa Romeo’s engineering, offering precise throttle response and a distinctive exhaust note.
Movie Fame: The 1750 GTV has appeared in numerous Italian films, symbolizing style, sophistication, and speed.
Rarity: As the final production year of the 1750 GTV, 1971 models are highly sought after by collectors, often commanding premium prices in the vintage car market.