1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Berlinetta Aerodinamica

At the Le Mans 24 Hours race in 1939, Alfa Romeo introduced a 6C Tipo 256 with streamlined 'Berlinetta' coachwork created by Touring. Its shape was honed at the Guidonia Supersonic Research Center for aerodynamic efficiency, complementing the potent twin-cam, dry-sump 2.5-liter SS engine. At Le Mans, the Touring-bodied car was driven by Sommer and Bira, but after completing lap 173, they were forced to retire from the race. Additional modifications were made prior to its next race, the 1940 Mille Miglia, where it was driven by Trossi and Lucchi, finishing 8th overall.

The location and fate of the unique 6C Tipo 256 Berlinetta have been lost to history since 1941.

This particular Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS is a recreation of that significant model. Following extensive research, the hand-formed aluminum body was built using period-correct methods and tooling by HVR, in collaboration with General Motors' VP of Global Design, Mike Simcoe. Using Touring's construction technique, the frame was formed of small-bore steel tubing, and the body was formed using a wooden body buck created by HVR. The car is currently in the as-raced 1940 Mille Miglia condition.

Styling elements include the self-encapsulated door hinges, dual rear filler caps, recessed bonnet straps, a full suite of Veglia instrumentation, Bakelite steering wheel, and lightweight tube frame airplane-style seats.

The body was completed in 2009, and since that time, it has been much-admired at some of Australia's most exclusive concours.

The 2.5-liter engine has three Weber 40DC03 carburetors and many period-correct components, however, several modern updates increased its output by about 30 horsepower.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2024