FCA Heritage takes part in the twenty-third edition of the Vernasca Silver Flag, entering a priceless classic: the exceptionally rare Alfa Romeo 1900 Sport Spider.
The Vernasca Silver Flag is the re-enactment of the historic Castell'Arquato-Vernasca hill climb that was staged between 1953 and 1972.
The event is reserved for racing cars dating from the earliest days of the automobile until the early 1970s, and takes the form of a “dynamic conservation and restoration concours", in which the cars parade on roads closed to traffic, at restricted speed. In this edition, 220 authentic gems created a travelling museum uniquely able to recount the whole history of motor racing.
Naturally, FCA Heritage was present, taking part with a vintage Alfa Romeo of almost inestimable value: the 1900 Sport Spider built in 1954.Fresh from delighting the crowds at the Mille Miglia - in which it was driven by Coldplay bass player Guy Berryman and American racing driver Derek Hill - the extremely rare racing spider (only two of which were ever built) has a 4-cylinder twin-cam engine, maximum power of 138 HP and a top speed of 220 km/h, thanks in part to a weight of just 880 kg and particularly efficient aerodynamics. Its stylish design by Bertone and its excellent road-holding are the other distinctive features of a car that performs and handles superbly.
The "Silver" attracted not only legendary cars but also drivers of illustrious fame. In fact, prize-winners included Arturo Merzario driving the 1900 Sport Spider and Bernard Darniche in the Lancia Stratos. Best of Show for post-war cars went to the Alfa Romeo 2000 Sportiva, one of just two of these cars built, belonging to Axel Marx. A car the Swiss collector has finally managed to acquire after a "courtship" lasting almost thirty years.
Read the story of the Alfa Romeo 1900 Sport Spider: a fast, elegant prototype.
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