An original Alfa Romeo G1 is up for auction

If you’re after a bona fide, pristine-condition vintage car, then this is the one. The pinnacle. The original to end all originals. 

We’ve found a 1921 Alfa Romeo G1 for sale, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s, in stunning condition, restored and fully driveable. With chassis number 6018 – thought to be an early production model – it was stored until the 1940s in Australia before being snapped up by Alfa fan Ross Flewell-Smith in 1965, restoring it completely by the 2000s to get it in perfect running order. It went on to win awards worldwide as such a significant part of Alfa Romeo history. 

There were only 52 examples of the G1 produced, and this is believed to be the only complete and functioning model in existence. It got Alfa’s first ever six-cylinder engine – a 6.3-litre with a whole 70 horsepower – plus a top speed of 86mph. Surprising to us now, but at the time, Alfa found almost no interest in the G1 in Italy, so 50 examples were imported into Australia where this model was found. 

The auction will take place in Phoenix, Arizona, in January next year and this car doesn’t even get a reserve price. It’s estimated, however, that the hammer will fall at anything over $1.5million (just over £1million). Tempted?