Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint

The first Sprint was unveiled at the Turin Motor Show on April 21, 1954. It was a bold step for Alfa Romeo: with the Giulietta, the manufacturer began the transition from a manufacturer of fine luxury sports cars (such as the 1900) to a high-performance series manufacturer. The name „Giulietta“ was chosen to symbolize a smaller, more accessible sister of the Alfa Romeo 1900 - and at the same time it alluded with romantic lightness to Shakespeare's famous character.

The legendary design house Bertone was responsible for the Sprint's body design. Franco Scaglione, one of the most important Italian designers of the 1950s, was the creative force behind the design - a harmonious mix of sportiness and elegance. The flowing lines, the compact coupé shape and the subtle chrome accents gave the Sprint a striking yet timeless appearance. Bertone took over the production of the Sprint itself, which contributed to the excellent build quality.

In technical terms, the Giulietta was a small stroke of genius: the water-cooled four-cylinder light-alloy engine was not only compact, but also powerful thanks to its overhead camshafts and advanced design. Over the years, the power output increased from 53 hp to 100 hp in the Veloce versions, depending on the variant.

The chassis was based on a self-supporting steel body with independent front suspension and rigid rear axle - not revolutionary, but solid and sportily tuned for the time. The combination of low weight, agile suspension set-up and a high revving engine made the Giulietta Sprint a real „driver's car“.

The second model series was launched in 1958. The Giulietta Sprint was given a new radiator grille, which was more reminiscent of the saloon, and a new interior with the sportier Cloche gearbox.

In 1962, after the introduction of the Alfa Romeo Giulia with 1600 engine, the Giulietta Sprint was replaced by the new Alfa Romeo Giulia 1600 Sprint, which adopted the bodywork with a few modifications. To meet demand, the 1300 Sprint was reintroduced into the range in 1964, i.e. the Giulietta Sprint with the body of the Giulia Sprint but with the 1300 engine.

Today, the Giulietta Sprint is considered one of the most beautiful coupé creations of the 50s and 60s - a symbiosis of form and function, built for an era in which driving was still an experience.