1989 Alfa Romeo 33 Alfa 1.7 QV review from Australia and New Zealand

The car was purchased cheap as a do-up job. It was running on 3 cylinders, courtesy of over-revving b previous owner, and wouldn't change gear as the clutch pivot pin had sheared off!

Both cheap to fix.

The gearbox didn't like fast downc hanges into 2nd gear, so the box came out and a new synchromesh was put in by a friendly mechanic.

The rear brake bias valve was also defective, resulting in uneven braking. Another trip to the Italian Auto Spares shop!

Although neglected when I bought it, the 33 is now the most fun I have had on 4 wheels.

I started racing it in the local Alfa Owners club series, firstly in standard form, and then in a semi-standard class with limited modifications to the springs & shocks, on DOT rated race tyres.

The car is great fun on & off the track. So much so that I have bought another to drive to work. The 33 was always under-rated, but with good tyres, and better springs, it is so much fun to drive.

Yes the seating position is a little "different". Yes they can rust if you aren't careful with them, but they are a heap of fun, and the best opportunity to have a little bit of Italian motoring heritage in your garage!