A BATTERED motor that Jeremy Clarkson once bought on Top Gear for just £450 can now be yours – but for a hugely inflated price.
A 1989 Alfa Romeo 75 V6 3.0 Veloce that was driven by the presenter for an episode of the show is selling for a staggering £15,000.
An 80s Alfa Romeo once owned by Jeremy Clarkson has gone up for sale[/caption]
The motor is finished in so-called ‘Skoda Green’ – although it has a few battle scars[/caption]
Jezza originally bought it for £450 but it’s now worth £15,000[/caption]
The Alfa appeared in episode three of series 11 back in 2008, when the three presenters – Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond – were tasked with buying a car for under £1,000.
Clarkson is known for his fondness for Alfa Romeo cars, once saying that you need to own an Alfa Romeo to be a true car enthusiast.
He bought this 75 model for just £450 at the time and praised its 3.0-litre Busso V6 engine, calling it “one of the best engines ever to go into mass production.”
Throughout the famous episode, the car faced several challenges, including a track day at Rockingham Motor Speedway.
It also featured in a calendar photoshoot, as well as the Auto Italia Stanford Hall Concours – where Clarkson personally repainted it in a shade he called ‘Skoda Green’.
Today, the car has much of its original paintwork – as well as a few battle scars from its TV exploits.
Its listing, courtesy of Iconic Auctioneers, says: “Following its appearance on Top Gear, the Alfa Romeo 75 has been meticulously maintained during 11 years of current ownership, with approximately £4,500 invested mechanically.
“Important work has included a cam belt service, a new clutch, and a gearbox rebuild.
“With just over 51,000 miles on the clock, the car comes with a comprehensive history file, original handbooks, stamped service book, old MOT records, and a detailed DVLA ownership history.
“The sale includes replacement doors and bonnet for those interested in returning it to standard specification.”
The listing added: “A great opportunity to buy a TV ‘star car’ that starts, runs and stops.
“Last MOT expired in 2017. Category ‘C’ Insurance Loss.
“Vehicle extensively damaged but repairable.
“Insurer decided not to repair it.”
Rob Hubbard of Iconic Auctioneers said: “This Alfa Romeo 75 is an enjoyable and quirky piece of Top Gear history, ideal for those who appreciate characterful cars with an engaging backstory.
“We’re delighted to present cars like this, celebrating automotive passion at every level.”
Fans of the show can fork out on the Alfa Sunday, August 24, at the Silverstone Festival in Towcester, Northamptonshire.
