In South Africa, the 1970s were a time of great success for Alfa Romeo. The Italian automaker was enjoying unrivalled popularity while enjoying its zenith in South Africa. A fruitful model of the time for the marque was the Alfa Romeo Berlina 2000, as popular on the roads as it was successful at the racetrack. Here are some maintenance pointers by an owner of a 1978 Alfa Romeo Berlina
The Berlina was a common car on South African roads, serving as an affordable but fun sedan aimed at the masses. It had a traditionally boxy 1970s shape and two distinctive headlights which made it instantly recognisable with the iconic Alfa Romeo Scudetto grille. Its 2,0-litre powerplant proved to be sufficient and frugal enough when trundling around town while 98 kW from the four-cylinder made it blisteringly quick on the open roads.
Many decades down the line, the sedan has somewhat fallen into obscurity, with many no longer on the roads or reserved for short weekend outings by adoring Alfisti. It may seem impossible to keep a classic car running for almost 40 years, but by taking the right steps, paired with a meticulous owner, all is possible. Theo Lötter knows this because he bought a 1978 Alfa Romeo Berlina in 1981 and then sold it three years later. After not knowing what happened to the car for 25 years, he remarkably managed to come across the very same model in 2021. Since then, he has been taking care of it so that future generations can admire a model he developed an affection for. If you want your classic car to last for at least 38 years, there are a few important steps you need to take:
- If possible, don’t drive excessively. Of course, cars are built to be driven, but clocking the miles won’t do many mechanical components any favours. Lötter only drives his Alfa about 500 km a year, which helps keep the engine and other parts relatively fresh.
- Don’t use a hose to wash the car. Water can damage the paint and body of a classic car, so it’s better to use a bucket and sponge instead of a hose.
- Service the car yourself: Lötter recommends taking the time to learn how to service your own classic car. This will not only save you money, but it will also allow you to keep a close eye on the condition of the vehicle and address any issues that may arise.
- Replace things that go bad as needed. Consumable parts of the car that wear out quickly, like the brake pads or tyres, should be changed as needed to keep the car running well and prevent any unnecessary problems further on.
- Change the fluids annually: Regularly changing the oil, brake fluid, and other fluids will help keep the car running smoothly and prevent issues down the line, regardless of how little mileage has been amassed during that year.
By following these simple rules, you can help ensure that your classic car remains in top condition for many years to come.
1973 Alfa Romeo Berlina 2000 Fast Facts
Engine: 2,0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol
Transmission: 5-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power: 98 kW @ 5 500 r/min
Torque: 182 N.m @ 3 500 r/min
Top speed: 185 km/h
0-100 km/h: 10,8 seconds
Fuel consumption: 12,1 L/100 km
Fuel tank: 53 litres
Weight: 1 110 kg
Manufactured: 1971-1977
Even though the Berlina was a popular car for the famed Italian brand, it had stiff competition from the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Alfa Romeo, on the other hand, stood out because it was known for making high-quality cars that offered charisma and driver engagement. On the racetrack, the Berlina proved to be a formidable foe, winning many races and getting a reputation as a real sports sedan, in an era before that segment really came to fruition.
Classic car fans and collectors love the Alfa Romeo Berlina. And for those who get to drive one of these rare and beautiful cars, the Berlina is a reminder of a time when style and performance were what made Alfa Romeo popular in South Africa.
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