[speeder]

You're asking advice from a pool of people with close to zilch Alfa knowledge. At least from what I see above. Alfas are fantastic cars, at least as strong as any Porsche. This is coming from a Porsche fanatic.

They have issues but the issues pale in comparison to the ones with any series of Porsche. There are also years to avoid and specific things to look for, (and at), on a PPI. As with any older car, the 3 most important factors are condition,condition and condition. Accident/rust free, well-maintained w/ records by a shop that specializes in the cars, (no different from Porsche, Mercedes, etc.), the smallest number of previous owners possible, etc., etc...

In general, the years '75-'82 are the least desirable and least valuable both mechanically and cosmetically. They are the *mid-year 911s* of Alfa Spiders. They are slow and (relatively) ugly. There is no reason to even look at them considering the low cost of a mint mid-'80s car. All 1983 and newer cars are Bosch FI and run great plus are quick if in good shape/tune. 100% reliable if maintained. There is nothing stronger than an Alfa, not even a Porsche. There is no marque in the world with a more storied racing history. Not Porsche, not Ferrari, no one.