Athlete Usain Bolt called himself 'immortal' since he won olympic gold for the third time on the 100 Meter sprint. If the black Alfa Romeo 8C pictured above could talk it would be allowed a similar claim. It's arguably the non plus ultra Alfa Romeo in this world.
Whenever RM Sotheby's announce an auction of cars, you may be sure there will be some exciting examples, and the lots in their Monterey sale on 19/20 August do not disappoint.
To read the catalogue description of the 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider is to slowly be drawn into a subject which we find irresistible and makes us hungry for more. Fortunately our appetite can be satisfied since Simon Moore has published his meticulous research into every known 2.9 Alfa and his book is properly credited as the source of chassis no 412041's catalogue description.
Cut him and he bleeds Pre War Alfa Romeo - and his lifetime's passion is evident in the scrupulous accuracy expected when a potential buyer is possibly going to bid more than 20 million dollars for this car.
To understand why this car has become so highly prized means taking the time to read about each legendary car - its adventures and its owners. But to really appreciate this beautiful machine you have to settle into the driver's seat, close the door and after pressing the starter button just listen to that explosion of sound as the DOHC 2.9 straight eight bursts into life and screaming gears remind you that two superchargers are working hard to keep the beast fed with fuel.
Guide her out onto the open road and begin to understand why the 8C 2900 was not a mere sports car, but the most advanced, modern, and compelling sports car that money could buy. To the gentleman who was accustomed to watching the workings of his Swiss watch or mastering the intricacies of his yacht’s sails, it was a symphony.
The auction house describe the car as immortal and extraordinary and they helpfully add this definition..." extraordinary adj. 1) very unusual; very different from what is normal or ordinary 2) extremely good or impressive. "
Yes - this car ticks all those boxes... and more.
Text Robin Batchelor, picture courtesy RMSotheby's.