I am looking into buying the wife a project car that she can drive around. She desperately wants an E-type, but 100k is not in the budget. But a 1967 Alfa Duetto is more than possible.

have any of you guys ever dabbled in these cars? I am looking to buy one in very good shape. I plan to fully execute the buy the best one I can possibly afford mantra.

But does anybody here have experience with these cars?

I have lots of experience with it's hardtop predecessor. A 61 Giulietta Sprint. [sigh...]

What advice can I provide? Same as a Z. Buy one that has as little rust on it as you can afford. Other than that, everything is easy. The driveline is rugged assuming it hasn't been abused, but the rust is the big issue. Interior is "just money".

Other thoughts? You've got the choice between Veloce ("Performance" model), and Normale ("Normal" model). Veloce commands more money. Your wife probably doesn't need one, and your wallet will be thankful. Your troubleshooting time will be thankful as well.

Beyond that?

Lucas electricals - The only thing worse is Marelli.

Girling brakes - As bad of a reputation as Lucas electricals.

I love the old Alfas.... If I had more room, I'd still have one.

And, I've still got some old books and repair literature, etc that I would be more than happy to send you if you pull the trigger and buy something like that. Just LMK.

I had one when I was in college. Wet sleeve engine and it was difficult for me to keep a head gasket in it. Valve adjustment was more difficult because it had shims on top of the valve stems rather than a screw and lock nut. Really enjoyed it and if you look around the internet, there is plenty of info on them.

I'm not certain of the 'veloce / normale' designation for a 1967 Duetto. The early models did not have the chopped tail like the later versions. My Duetto had headlight covers also.

Thanks very much guys. This is all so fun. It reminds me of back when I had no idea about what an SU carb was and how it worked. Had no idea about slow Datsun wipers, etc. It is another whole car with another whole set of issues/strengths/weaknesses. In short I have the chance to get an italian dance partner to go with my Geisha girlfriend.

It sounds like you and the wife are very much a well-matched set. Congrats!

Sounds like a great family hobby to me - hope you find one

The Alfas are nice, fun cars. But depending on how deep into your wallet you want to go, a similar experience that might be more affordable might be an early Fiat 124 Spider. A twin-cam-but-small-bumper Spider can be a seriously nice driving car. I personally prefer the looks of them over the Alfas.

"We OR British"

What about a GT-6? Triumph GT6 Mark III - Make Offer

Or

Europa: Lotus Europa Twin Cam 1973

Or

Esprit: 1989 lotus esprit

or Classic 1971 Opel GT

or Austin Healey Sprite 1959

or AutoTrader Classics - 1973 Saab Sonett Orange Other Manual | Import Classics | Fairfield, CA

or AutoTrader Classics - 1975 Jensen Interceptor Convertible White | Import Classics | St.Louis, MO

or AutoTrader Classics - 1975 TVR M Series Coupe Silver 6 Cylinder Manual 2 wheel drive | Import Classics | Zebulon, NC

or AutoTrader Classics - 1974 MG MGB Coupe Blue 8 Cylinder Manual | Import Classics | Fairfield, CA

or

My mom had a Fiat 124 spider back in the old days. I got to drive it once in a while, it was fun to drive.

I enjoyed the Triumph GT6 MkIII I had though the Lucas electrics drove me crazy. Only car I ever drove where the headlight switch cover fell off.

Porsche short wheel base 912 or long wheel base 911T, if you can find one that's affordable

Easier to work on than most people think!

I say definitely go for it! Italian cars have a style and personality all their own. I agree with Arne that a Fiat spider is another good choice. And don't believe what you hear about the (lack of) reliability of Italian cars....they are just like anything else, it depends on whether they have bee maintained or not. I bought my Fiat ('84 X1/9) a year and a half ago and its been a total hoot to drive and I've had ZERO problems.