After its factory was devastated by wartime bombing, Alfa Romeo resumed car production in 1947, relying on the pre-war 2500C until 1952. In 1950, Alfa introduced its first all-new post-war model, the 1900. Designed by Dr. Orazio Satta Puliga, the 1900 was the first Alfa with unitary construction and a twin-overhead-camshaft engine. This 1,884cc, four-cylinder engine produced 90bhp, allowing the four-door saloon to reach 93mph.
Despite its family car appearance, the 1900 boasted sporting credentials, including wishbone and coil spring independent front suspension and a well-located live rear axle. In 1951, its potential was realized with the high-performance 1900C Sprint, featuring bodywork by Pinin Farina (cabriolet) and Touring (coupé), both using the 100bhp engine from the 1900TI sports saloon. The Touring-bodied Sprint Coupé was so well-received that it influenced future Alfa Romeo coupés, including the Giulietta Sprint.
The Sprint Coupé combined sporting performance with ‘2+2’ accommodation, appealing to sports car enthusiasts with families. Its design featured a heart-shaped vertical grille with horizontal side intakes, becoming an Alfa trademark. In June 1954, the engine was enlarged to 1,975cc and the model was re-designated as the ‘Super Sprint’. With 115bhp and an aluminum body, these cars could reach 118mph and excelled in competitions. By the end of production, 949 Sprints and 854 Super Sprints had been made.
Photos by Jesus Robledo courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
