Alfa Romeo 1750 GT Bidée Spider

Built in 1930 and sent new to Belgium, this Alfa Romeo 1750 was damaged in an accident in 1934 and rebodied by the Belgian coachbuilder Bidée as a compact spider. The grille shape is said to echo that of the 8C 2900 Grand Prix cars.

It was found around 25 years ago near Antwerp, in a small collection assembled by two brothers. It was then painted light metallic blue and restored by a team of French craftsmen. The work included stripping the body to bare metal, remaking the floors, bonnet and grille, repairing the timber door frames, remaking the dashboard and reconditioning the instruments. The interior was retrimmed and the car had a full mechanical overhaul.

The history is well documented. The car won the Martougin trophy at the 1946 Concours d'Elegance in Brussels and passed through several named owners. Its engine, clutch and steering were later restored at D'Ieteren's workshop. It has been serviced recently by Historic Competition Services in Antwerp and has completed tours including Brescia and Sicily. A restoration and history file, plus photographs of the car as found, come with it. It is registered in Belgium.