Alfa GTV and Lancias

This past weekend, local mechanic Giovanni lent me an Alfa GTV, a 1974 2-liter, for a few days while he's doing replacing some bushings on the Aurelia. I was admiring the GTV's lovely lines and its compact package, a nicely proportioned 1960s design on the old 105 chassis. Its a lot of fun for the young-at-heart, with a great engine and trans. Given nice roads, nice car - and even with a few rattles and wind noise. Not a Lancia, but worth appreciating. 

A comparison of dimensions tells an interesting story. Assuming they are correct (assembled casually from web data), the following can be gleaned: 

• GTV is noticeably smaller than B20, but similar track and width. 
• Alfas and Fulvias have about same wheelbase and length, GTV is slightly longer and wider than Fulvia Coupe. 
• Fulvia Sport is longer than Fulvia coupe, same as GTV; Duetto is longer yet. 
• Fulvia is about the same width as B20, but 14" shorter. 

Its interesting to compare the GTV and the B20, but also the GTV and the Fulvia. It feels wider than the Fulvia but its close to the same size. Has a wider front track, but not by much. 
These GTVs are quite popular in the States, similar to the Porsche 356 or other cars of that period. Its easy to live with, and fun to drive, although missing some Lancia refinements!