In 1967, Alfa Romeo presented a concept coupe at Expo 67 in Montreal, Canada, showcasing two prototypes. These stylish 2+2 front engine, rear drive vehicles were designed by Marcello Gandini of Bertone and built on the 105 series Alfa chassis, featuring 1.6-liter four-cylinders derived from the Giulia Ti. Since the cars were displayed without an official name, the public dubbed the new Italian GT as The Montreal Car.
The production Montreal made its debut three years later at the 1970 Geneva Auto Show. While the design remained similar to the prototype, the production version surpassed it in many ways, which is a rare occurrence. Unlike the two ’67 show cars, the road-going Montreal was powered by a 2.6-liter V8 engine and five-speed manual transmission carried over from the 33 Stradale. With a redline of 7,000 rpm and 200 horsepower, the Montreal could complete a quarter mile in just 15 seconds. Its GTV underpinnings made it an impressive performer on twisty backroads.
The Alfa Romeo chassis was built in Arese, shipped to Bertone in Caselle, and then sent to Grugliasco for upholstery and final assembly. This manufacturing process drove up the Montreal’s cost even further, making it more expensive than the established Jaguar E Type and Porsche 911. Due to the complexities of production and high cost of entry, fewer than 4,000 Montreal were built.
Photo Source: Favcars.com
