Classic Alfa-Romeo rescued from ruin

BY MARIANNE MACDONALD

Arts Reporter

The 1930 Alfa-Romeo which Tazio Nuvolari raced to victory against an international field in Ireland has been rescued from almost 30 years of decay in a Wiltshire garage, and is to be auctioned today for an expected £100,000.

The historic racing car was once owned by Prince Aly Khan, one-time husband of the Hollywood star Rita Hayworth. It is one of the most important 1750 Grand Sport models to be auctioned in recent years.

The Alfa won the International Tourist Trophy in August 1930 when driven by Nuvolari, considered by many to be the best racing driver of all time. After the race its body was changed to a coupe shape by Alfa-Romeo.

It was then exhibited at the London Motor Show and bought by the prince. Its later history is sketchy, but for the last 27 years it sat forgotten in the garage in Wiltshire. It has been put on the market by the widow of the man who bought it, who has asked not to be named.