>2) In a related question, in what respects does a '69 2dr. hardtop Alpine
>from the Chrysler era differ from the earlier models? Good points, if any,
>bad points? While apparently a less desirable auto, $400 for a garaged,
>non-running, good body, needs brake overhaul, example seems reasonable.
>Any help on the above would be appreciated.
>
>
Differences: McPhearson (sp?) strut front suspension. Coupe model has cast iron head and one Stromberg. Engine cants over at 10 degree angle. Tranny imput shaft longer than Series cars.
Good points? Not too bad a basic "driver". When maintained, the brakes are very good. Great conversation piece. People will point and stare at your car everywhere you go. Tell people its a special one-off Barracuda. (even most "car people" will believe it!!!)
Bad points? No one regularly stocks parts for them in the U.S., though they should be easily obtainable from the U.K. (eg. Grimes) where they were sold from 1967-76. When pushed, they understeer....and understeer.....and understeer some more. If parted out, the 1725 is usable (with some modifications) as well as the differential gears.
$400 is OK if the interior is relatively intact and the engine or front suspension doesn't need an immediate overhaul. I've heard in the past that the dual master cylinder is tough to rebuild, but I couldn't confirm it. BTW, when ordering rear brake rebuild kits, order the ones for the "Sunbeam Arrow". The kits for "Alpine GT" are for single piston cylinders (perhaps for U.K. cars), not the dual piston type found in the U.S., and don't fit.
Dick Sanders Seattle, WA