Saying Goodbye to my Alfa Romeo GTV6

For eighteen years, this Alfa Romeo GTV6 has been a constant companion. Purchased in 2008, it has accompanied countless road trips, club events, restoration projects and memorable drives. It has been one of those rare cars that quietly grows on you over time, until one day you realise it has become far more than just a machine.

Recently, we documented what may be one of the car’s final drives in our ownership. After spending almost a year in hibernation, the GTV6 was brought back to life and taken on a journey that also marked a transition towards our next Alfa Romeo project.

An Early Dutch-Delivered GTV6

This particular Alfa Romeo GTV6 was first registered in the Netherlands on 12 February 1981 and is believed to be among the earliest Dutch-delivered examples. Finished in Grigio Nube Metallizzato, it combines the elegant lines of Giorgetto Giugiaro’s Alfetta GT design with one of the greatest engines ever produced by Alfa Romeo: the legendary Busso V6.

The GTV6 occupies a special place in Alfa Romeo history. Developed from the Alfetta GT platform, it combined a front-mounted V6 engine with Alfa Romeo’s sophisticated transaxle layout and De Dion rear suspension. The result was a sports coupé that offered a unique blend of performance, balance and character.

More than forty years after its introduction, the GTV6 remains one of the most charismatic classic Alfa Romeos to drive.

A Long-Term Ownership Story

Unlike many classic cars that pass through multiple owners in quick succession, this GTV6 spent nearly two decades in the care of the same enthusiast owner.

Over the years, the car was continuously maintained, improved and developed. It was never intended as an investment or a static collector’s item. Instead, it was driven, enjoyed and gradually refined.

Between 2015 and 2021, the car underwent an extensive restoration and refurbishment programme. The body received the attention it deserved, including rust repairs using donor panels and a complete repaint in its original Grigio Nube Metallizzato colour. The sliding roof assembly was rebuilt, exterior trim renewed and the lightweight Campagnolo wheels restored.

The interior also remains one of the highlights of the car. Finished in tan leather, it creates a wonderfully period-correct Italian atmosphere and contrasts beautifully with the subtle grey exterior. Combined with details such as the original Philips radio, Hirschmann electric antenna and wooden steering wheel, the cabin captures the essence of an early 1980s Alfa Romeo grand tourer.

Mechanical Evolution

Like many enthusiast-owned GTV6s, this example evolved mechanically throughout its life.The original 2.5-litre V6 was replaced by a 3.0-litre Busso V6 sourced from an Alfa Romeo 75 3.0 America. Producing approximately 190 horsepower, the larger engine transforms the driving experience while remaining entirely faithful to the character of the car.

The familiar Busso soundtrack is complemented by an ANSA sport exhaust system, while a limited-slip differential ensures that the additional performance can be effectively transmitted to the road.

In recent years, the drivetrain received further attention. The gearbox was rebuilt using upgraded Alfa 75 3.0 internal components, combined with a rebuilt limited-slip differential and renewed clutch assembly. Particular care was taken to improve the characteristic transaxle gearshift quality, resulting in a notably precise shift action by GTV6 standards.

Countless other improvements, repairs and refinements have been carried out throughout the years, all contributing to a car that feels thoroughly sorted and ready to be enjoyed.

The Final Drive

The familiar sound of the Busso V6 returning to life instantly brought back memories of previous journeys and adventures. Once out on the open road, it became clear why the GTV6 has developed such a loyal following among Alfa Romeo enthusiasts.

Few cars combine mechanical involvement, steering feel, chassis balance and engine character in quite the same way. During the drive, another Alfa Romeo story also entered the picture. A visit to the bodyshop revealed the current progress of our Alfa Romeo 75 restoration project, a car that will feature extensively on these pages and on our YouTube channel in the coming years.

Seeing the finished GTV6 alongside the Alfa 75 project created an interesting contrast. One chapter was approaching its conclusion, while another was just beginning.

Why It Was Time

The decision to part with the GTV6 was not driven by disappointment or a loss of enthusiasm. Quite the opposite. Life simply changes.

With a young family and new priorities, opportunities to properly enjoy a classic two-door coupé without rear seatbelts have become increasingly limited. Long trips that once suited the GTV6 perfectly are no longer as practical as they once were.

At the same time, the Alfa Romeo 75 restoration project offers an exciting new challenge and a car that is likely to fit our future use somewhat better. Rather than spending increasing amounts of time in storage, the GTV6 deserved to move on to a new caretaker who could continue to enjoy and exercise it as intended.

Looking Back

Cars often become markers of different periods in our lives. For eighteen years, this Alfa Romeo GTV6 was present throughout countless personal and automotive milestones. It taught lessons in restoration, maintenance and preservation. It introduced new friendships and experiences. Most importantly, it delivered thousands of kilometres of enjoyment behind the wheel.

Whether viewed as a beautifully engineered transaxle Alfa Romeo, a Busso V6-powered driver’s car, or simply as a cherished long-term companion, the GTV6 leaves behind a lasting impression.

Its story with us may be coming to an end, but the memories it created will remain for many years to come.