During nearly a decade of production, Alfa Romeo’s highly successful 1900 series included just 854 examples of the 1900C SS, with the “C” denoting its short-wheelbase chassis and “SS” declaring its competition-oriented specifications.
This car was the star display on the Boano stand at the 1955 Turin Auto Show, and according to its corresponding Automobile Club d’Italia paperwork, the first individual owner was Giuseppe Dalmazio Vallerga of Milan.
The Alfa next passed among several owners, always remaining in Italy, and joined the famous stable of Bologna-area collector Mario Righini in the 1980s, from whom the consignor acquired it in October 2013. As in Torino in 1955, the Boano Coupe was a star attraction at the 2014 Rétromobile show in Paris, and in 2015, it graced the invitation-only Preservation Class at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
At some point, the Boano Coupe was refinished in red from the original yellow and black. In the past two years, the 1900 received a new battery; correct Salva fuel lines and new fan belts, spark plugs and ignition wires; breaker points; and a condenser. The most recent work performed in 2015 includes attention to the cooling system, door fit and engine tuning.
Presented in engagingly original condition, the patina and authenticity of this coachbuilt Alfa Romeo remain largely undisturbed. This remarkable condition, coupled with the significance of the one-off show car bodywork, is an exceedingly rare combination. In sum, this 1900C SS coupe is sure to excite Alfisti everywhere with its high-performance chassis and mechanicals, handcrafted Boano coachwork and fascinating history.