The
Alfa Romeo Spider Lusso Final edition was the last version of
a design which first saw light in 1995 at the Geneva Motor Show.
The Spider was the convertible version of the Alfa
Romeo GTV sports coupe, although the Spider was only a 2
seater, whereas the GTV had 2+2 seating.
Engine options throughout the lifespan of the Alfa Romeo Spider
and GTV included 1.8 and 2.0 litre 16v Twin Spark engines, a
2.0 litre V6 turbocharged
unit, and the top of the line 3.0 litre 24v V6 engine.
In 1998 the Alfa Romeo Spider and GTV underwent a face-lift
which included mild exterior cosmetic changes, a redesigned
interior and an optional 6 speed gearbox on the 3.0 litre V6
models.
In 2003 a more comprehensive revision of the Spider and GTV
took place. The front end of the new car featured a much deeper
grille which emulated the grille found on the Alfa Romeo 147
(first produced in 2000). A new 240 bhp 3.2 litre V6 was also
added to the engine line up.
In 2006 the GTV and the Spider were replaced by the Alfa Romeo
Brera and the convertible version, the Brera
Spider.