Introduced in 1965 as a replacement for the venerable Giulietta Sprint series, the Giulia GT 1300 Junior became Alfa Romeo’s entry-level coupe. It featured a slightly modified version of the 1,290-cubic-centimeter twin-cam engine from the Giulietta, which allowed buyers to avoid the higher taxes levied on models with larger engines. Wrapped in attractive bodywork designed by Bertone, the combination proved popular as the 1300 GT Junior remained in production until 1974. Updates throughout its lifespan incorporated many of the same revisions applied to Alfa Romeo’s larger-engine models, making each successive year of the GT 1300 Junior slightly different.

The example offered here sold new in Genoa Italy, notably with modifications by Alfa Romeo’s in-house racing department Autodelta, according to a copy of its original Italian registration. Though it currently features incorrect “GTA 1300 Junior” badges, this steel-body GT 1300—chassis type 105.51—should not be confused with the aluminum-body GTA 1300 Junior—chassis type 105.59—modified by Autodelta for Alfa Romeo’s factory racing team.

This GT 1300 Junior would remain in Italy with two subsequent owners following the original one until 1986, when it was acquired by a gentleman in the United Kingdom, according to sale documents on file. He, in turn, would immediately sell the car, along with a spare engine, to the consignor. The East Coast collector and amateur racer would then import the car to the United States in late 1986, adding it to a growing collection of vintage competition-oriented Alfa Romeos. Once recommissioned and competition-ready, the consignor would campaign the GT 1300 Junior in Sportscar Vintage Racing Association events. An SVRA logbook on file notes participation in races at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and Watkins Glen International from 1987 through 1989.

Accompanied by an interesting history file, this Giulia GT 1300 Junior is an exciting opportunity to any collector or racer wishing to delve into vintage competition with a true Italian classic.