A vast majority of individuals would be thrilled to issue a blank check in order to fabricate, or purchase, our ideal four-wheeled contraption. Regrettably, practicalities such as sustenance, accommodation, and medical coverage mean the majority of us must observe this imagination vicariously through others, like the creator of this widebody 1971 Alfa Romeo GTAm replication, purportedly costing over $200,000 to assemble, rendering it significantly pricier than the corresponding, 540-horsepower 2021 model.
Promoted for purchase in Miami, Florida, this imitation of the European Touring Car Championship-overpowering GTAm is reported to have been refurbished by a “renowned west coast craftsman” by the moniker of Leake—probably acknowledged Alfisti and SCCA pilot Albert Leake Junior. Several years following Leake’s demise, the fresh owner of this Alfa commenced transforming it into a replica of the top-performing GTA with an enlarged 2.0-liter powerplant, and seemingly the complete performance components catalog of Alfaholics, who specializes in enhancing Alfas akin to what Singer does for Porsches. And not to mention—whose site elucidates how it’s possible to expend 200 grand modifying a GTA.
Similar to a genuine GTAm, this vehicle is propelled by a fuel-injected, dual-cam two-liter motor. It expels 93-octane gas down velocity stacks and through single intake valves, where dual spark plugs transform it into both 220 horsepower and a melodious noise. Supporting vocals come from a Quaife six-speed sequential transmission, whose straight-cut gears produce a louder sound than a German Shepherd experiencing separation anxiety. When all this commotion captures the attention of your local law enforcement, this GTA’s expanded brakes can swiftly reduce the speed to legal limits.
The aforementioned brakes are encased in a selection of magnesium wheels patterned after those of the Alfa Romeo Tipo 33, which are concealed by extensive, personalized fenders. These also conceal a complete Alfaholics suspension arrangement, utilizing lightweight suspension arms to aid in navigating similar to the vehicles that triumphed in the two-liter category in the 1970 SCCA Trans-Am Sedan Championship. Essentially, it’s a competition vehicle in every aspect except for the interior, which remains totally cushioned and without a cage.
In the modern world obsessed with engine power, where the 2021 GTA has evolved into a 540-horsepower vehicle, something as practical as this approximately one-ton, 220-horsepower original provides a welcome change. It remains in the same price range as its high-performance sedan counterpart, with the current price set at $102,900 by its vendor RMC Miami. While it might seem expensive, the price appears justified when comparing to other GTAm replicas available on Hemmings—especially since this particular model boasts a recent restoration and has accumulated less than 8,000 miles.
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