This low mileage (80,000) and very original UK market Alfa Spider is just as we like to find them but rarely do. Finished in Alfa mid blue with maroon interior, it comes from the final year of production for right-hand drive Series Two cars. Finding a Spider of this era in unmolested but structurally sound condition is a rare event, as the tin worm wreaked havoc on them almost from new, especially UK supplied cars.The key to this one's survival is the yellow plastic plugs to be found all over the body, indicating that it was professionally rust protected from new in all the vulnerable areas. Indeed to this day wax still can be seen seeping out underneath in hot weather. In addition the car has clearly had a quiet life, with only four previous owners, the second keeping the car for 23 years. It has a large history file including its original Alfa service voucher books. The paintwork is clearly past the first flush of youth but it still polishes up well, while the pierced steel wheels are in good condition.

The interior is just as original as the bodywork, still retaining its correct rubber floor mats which are usually long since replaced with carpet. The seats and door cards are also original and mostly good, with a small split on the driver's seat bolster the main negative. The cloth hood is completely sound but a little faded. Structurally, the only significant body repair is a couple of patches to the spare wheel well, a non-structural area where water tends to collect.

On the road the car drives superbly. The engine pulls strongly and has good oil pressure, while the 5-speed gearbox is light and precise and showing no signs of the typical Alfa worn second gear synchromesh. A good Spider should also have great steering and handling balance to go with the fabulous Pinifarina looks and this one does not disappoint.

There is no shortage of heavily - and often very badly - restored Spiders out there but this solid and very attractive example will appeal to those who appreciate how hard it is to find a good original car. It can can be enjoyed as it is and perhaps subtly improved without losing the patina that is so much a part of its appeal.