2008 8 C Coupe

John P. Catera

My love affair with sports cars began in the early ‘60’s when I went to my first SCCA races at Montgomery, Bridgehampton & Lime Rock Park. I was fortunate to have seen Phil Hill (Ferrari), Carol Shelby (Maserati) and Walt Hangsen (D Type Jags) compete against each other in SCCA’s modified classes. The SCCA TransAm races were dominated by the red Alfa GTA’s of Horst Kweck and a host of other Alfa drivers.

I loved the red Italian cars with the great sounding engines. My first Alfa was a brand new red ‘65 Spider Veloce 1600. The car was great fun to drive and the twin cam, dual weber engine had a terrific sound. I was instantly hooked on the marque!! Ienjoyed the car for about 5 years, but having just gotten married, we sold it for a downpayment on a house. Talk about sacrifices!!. I never lost my passion for Alfa’s and have owned several over the past 20 years. As a member of the Alfa club since the mid ‘80’s, I’ve had the opportunity to learn more about the cars , the history of the marque and to share my enthusiasm with a great group of Alfisti.

My current collection includes an ’86 GTV-6, ’90 Spider Quad and a ’95 164LS. Each one is unique and great fun to drive. My wish is to see Alfa back in the US market with the current breed of Alfa GTA’s competing in professional race series like the Grand Am Cup. Alfa , I hope you’re listening???