There has probably never been a more stylish, technologically advanced, and affordable new sports car than what the Alfa Romeo Duetto was in 1967. With styling based loosely on the racing Disco Volante, the Duetto had four-wheel disc brakes, an all-alloy DOHC engine with two Weber carburetors, a five-speed transmission, a top that went up easily, and a heater that converted winter to summer.
Today, 1967 Duettos stand as the highwater mark of Alfa sports cars. With emission and safety rules kicking in, the 1969 and later cars (Alfa had no 1968 U.S. model year) became increasingly fettered with warning lights and rubber bumpers, and the engines lost their free-revving characteristics and easy maintainability. While perfect Duettos can bnng more than $15,000, the common selling range is $9,000 to $12,000 for very good cars. Check the nose and tail sections carefully for collision damage; Duettos had no bumper protection. Engine upgrades from the original 1600-cc powerplant, to later 1750- and 2000-cc powerplants, are common, but they decrease the value. Original is best.
Duettos are not poised to leap in value, but they represent a lot of sports car at a reasonable price.
Contributed to Autoweek by Keith Martin, publisher of Sports Car Market magazine. For subscription information call (800) 289-2819.