Iconic 1934 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Lungo Spider with Original Coachwork Heads to Auction

Cars, Cars, Features, News I By Guest Contributor I July 18, 2024

Boasting long-term ownership and meticulous maintenance, this 8C is a highly respected, very pure example of the legendary “2.3” and will cross the block in Monterey on Saturday night at RM Sotheby’s auction.

• Making its auction debut and formerly owned for over four decades by renowned Alfa Romeo historian Angela Cherrett.
• Featuring handsome coachwork fitted by Eagle Coach Works for London dealer Jack Barclay.
• Never fully restored but always meticulously maintained, retaining its original matching-numbers engine.
• Winner of numerous concours awards and accompanied by a detailed history file, including a copy of the original buff logbook.

Monterey, CA, 18 July, 2024 – RM Sotheby’s is delighted to announce the auction of the stunning 1934 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Lungo Spider by Eagle Coach Works at the upcoming Monterey Car Week. Having never been offered at auction before, this highly respected example of the legendary “2.3” combines rich history, striking design, and remarkable originality, making it a highlight of the event.

The Alfa Romeo 8C 2300, renowned for its engineering excellence, features a complex and highly efficient engine that contributed to its success in the great races of the early 1930s, including four consecutive victories at Le Mans from 1931 to 1934. This 8C 2300 exemplifies the model’s legendary status, preserved much as its first private owner enjoyed it.

Chassis number 2311237, initially mounted with a Castagna cabriolet body, was sold by Alfa Romeo to London dealer Jack Barclay. The car was then fitted with its current alloy boattailed spider coachwork by Eagle Coach Works. It has passed through the hands of several notable owners, including racing driver Roy Gibson and, most significantly, Angela Cherrett, who cherished and maintained it for over 40 years.

The 8C 2300 Lungo Spider has never undergone a full restoration but has been carefully preserved, with cosmetic refinements performed to maintain its patina. It retains all its original major mechanical components, making it a rare and highly authentic example of its kind. The car has been recognized at numerous prestigious events, including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and the Concours d’Elegance of America at St. John’s.

Coming from more than 15 years of current ownership, this Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Lungo Spider offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. Combining racing pedigree with spectacular one-off styling, it is not only a thrill to admire but also to drive, capturing the essence of a supercharged 8C Alfa Romeo at speed.

“We’re excited to showcase an outstanding collection of the world’s finest automobiles in Monterey, with the 8C 2300 being a highlight of this year’s lineup,” said Gord Duff, Global Head of Auctions. “This 8C is exceptionally rare, having never undergone a full restoration. It retains its original patina and major mechanical components, making it a remarkable find. Furthermore, it was meticulously maintained for over four decades by the Alfa Romeo historian Angela Cherrett, guaranteeing it received the best possible care.”