Alfa Spider Series 3
The first preview of the Alfa Spider Series 3 was in North America in 1982 together with the introduction of the Bosch fuel injection operated electronically. The fuel injection is to replace the SPICA which is a mechanical injection used by the predecessors of Alfa Spiders. A revamp on the front bumpers as well as in the rear was undergone which was not really praised by the Spider enthusiasts and fans. The exterior aesthetics as well the appearance were considerably changed. Some mechanical modifications and reinforcements were also done to the extent of changing the name by dropping the “Junior” which was supposed to be included.
Generally, the 3rd series of the Alfa Spider was the new revolution of the new physical and mechanical tweaks. The car didn’t just undergo major overhaul but also major criticisms of how it was presented and built.
Alfa Spider Series 3 is also known as “Quadrifoglio Verde” (Green Fourleaf Clover) which was a new name given in 1986 together with all the major tweaks in all its aspects. There are a few additions on the accessories as well, these include:
* Sideskirts
* New mirrors
* Front and rear spoilers
* 3rd integral stoplight
* Hardtop (optional, removable)
Mechanically, it was somehow a little identical to the Spider Veloce models with its dual overhead camshaft, 1962 cc displacement, 4-cylinder engine, Bosch electronic fuel injection and the 5-speed manual transmission. It is to be noted that the 4 cylinders of the engine of the 3rd Series vary in the where they will be marketed. When the Alfa Series 3 is sold in Europe, two-barrel carburetors will be used. But they are sold in North America, the Bosch electronic fuel injection will be used.
Interior touches was also revised and some reinforcements was given like the new console (center-aligned), lower dashboard panels and the gauge cluster (where electrode gauges are found).
The most important distinguishing factor of the Alfa Spider Series is the tails. If you can see, each model has different tail patterns:
* The Series 1 had rounded and elongated tails which was the reason why it was called the “Osso di Seppia”
* The Series 2 had square tails which was adored during that time.
* The Series 3 had “duck tails”.
* The Series 4 was the final re-design of the tails of all Alfa Spiders.
All other Spiders built were based on the first ever built spiders, the Duetto and Spider Veloce. And being one of the few Spiders produce by Alfa Romeo, the rarity is indisputable making the car very expensive in today’s world market. There were only 7,215 units distributed to the world where the cars were sold.
If you are a vintage car collector, having one of these could be your best collection of a lifetime.
