Alfa Romeo 1750 Giardinetta Veloce

The Alfa Romeo 1750 Giardinetta Veloce, a rare and fascinating model, was a unique take on the classic 1750 Berlina. Built by Carrozzeria Pavesi in 1968, only three specimens of this exclusive station wagon were ever produced, making it an exceptionally rare collector’s item today. At the time, Alfa Romeo was renowned for its performance-oriented sedans and coupes, but the concept of a sporty yet practical Giardinetta (wagon) was unconventional. Pavesi, a Milan-based coachbuilder known for its high-end custom modifications, transformed the standard 1750 Berlina into a sleek and functional shooting brake-style wagon, offering more cargo space without sacrificing Alfa Romeo’s signature driving dynamics. The 1750 Giardinetta Veloce was powered by the same 1.8-liter (1779 cc) twin-cam inline-four engine found in the Berlina and GTV models. With an output of approximately 118 hp, it provided lively performance, making it a fast and stylish alternative to traditional family cars. It was equipped with twin carburetors and a 5-speed manual transmission, ensuring a spirited driving experience that was true to Alfa Romeo’s racing heritage. The car’s design retained the elegant front fascia of the Berlina, but the rear was extended and modified to accommodate the station wagon layout. Practicality was enhanced with an extended roofline and additional luggage space, making it a versatile yet stylish vehicle. With a price of 3,035,000 Lire in 1968 (equivalent to approximately €30,000 in today’s value), the 1750 Giardinetta Veloce was an exclusive and expensive automobile, aimed at discerning customers who desired both performance and utility. Due to its extreme rarity and bespoke nature, the Alfa Romeo 1750 Giardinetta Veloce remains an intriguing and sought-after piece of Alfa Romeo history, blending elegance, sportiness, and practicality in a way that few cars of its era could achieve.