Lot Ended
Description
Displaying just 62,151 miles and only four previous keepers; rare
right-hand-drive example; super original example with great history; driven 60
miles to the sale with a full 12 months MOT; recent £1,750
expenditure
The Lancia Beta Spyder is one of the
most distinctive Italian sports cars of the 1970s. Styled by Pininfarina and
built by Zagato, it combined elegant Italian design with the practicality of a
removable targa roof and folding rear hood, offering the best of both coupé and
convertible motoring.
With only 9,390 believed to
be built, with only a very small proportion of those right-hand-drive, the Beta
Spyder remains an incredibly rare sight on British roads.
Manufactured in 1978, this particular Spyder features the later and
largest available 1,995cc engine and is presented in rather gorgeous ‘Bianco
Saratoga’ over a dark tan upholstery.
Having had
just four registered keepers from new, including our vendor, this Beta Spyder
presents as an honest and seemingly very original example, displaying just
62,151 miles.
While bidders should satisfy
themselves as to the mileage, our vendor believes this to be genuine, with the
car having covered only around 4,000 miles since 2013 backed up by its MOT
history. Further supporting its well-cared-for nature is the ownership history,
with one previous keeper retaining the car for an impressive 36
years.
The Bianco paintwork presents in honest
condition, with a few age-related imperfections consistent with what appears to
be largely original paint. The most notable have been photographed but do little
to detract from the car's overall appearance, arguably adding to its character
and making it even more usable.
The interior
tells a similar story, presenting as remarkably original and smart with no
significant rips or tears to the upholstery. The only notable age-related wear
is some heat cracking to the top of the dashboard, a common feature on cars of
this type and age.
Having purchased the car with
his late wife in 2023, affectionately naming it 'Webster', our vendor is now
selling only due to lack of use. During their ownership, the Beta was enjoyed as
intended, including a near 500-mile round trip to the Norfolk coast as well as
numerous weekend outings. Prior to their purchase, the car benefitted from
around £1,750 of expenditure, including four new Pirelli tyres, a major service
and a comprehensive tune-up.
Having been driven
over 60 miles to the sale and arriving with a fresh 12 months' MOT, carrying
just a single advisory despite being MOT exempt, this charming Beta Spyder
appears ready to be enjoyed by its next custodian.
With its originality,
factory right-hand-drive specification and modest guide price, it represents an
excellent entry point into classic Italian sports car ownership with all the big
names. Find another.
Contact - jack.kenneally-perrin@brightwells.com