Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale

Vehicle Overview

The Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale, chassis #16601, is a unique one-off prototype that highlights Pininfarina‘s innovative design approach. Originally unveiled at the 1962 Turin and Geneva Motor Shows as a Spider cabriolet, this prototype garnered significant attention with its striking red paintjob and distinctive styling features. The Spider cabriolet showcased a sleek and aerodynamic design, incorporating the “scudetto,” Alfa Romeo’s iconic emblem, as a functional air intake. This design element not only contributed to the car’s cooling system but also defined its sharp, forward-looking front profile, complemented by pop-up headlights. In January 1963, the prototype underwent a transformation into a coupé, which was subsequently displayed at the Brussels Motor Show in a vibrant green paintjob. This conversion marked a significant shift in the car’s aesthetic, presenting a new interpretation of its design and showcasing Pininfarina’s versatility in automotive styling. The coupé version retained the core design themes of the original Spider but offered a more enclosed and refined appearance. After its exhibition, the Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale was discovered in the USA, where it underwent a comprehensive restoration. The restoration process carefully reinstated the prototype to its configuration as presented at the 1963 Brussels Motor Show, including the distinctive green paintjob and coupé form. The Alfa Romeo 2600 Coupé Speciale remains a significant example of Pininfarina’s design excellence. Its transformation from a Spider cabriolet to a coupé demonstrates the adaptability of automotive design and highlights the creative vision behind this unique prototype. The restored vehicle continues to be celebrated for its innovative styling and enduring impact on automotive design.