The 403 back on the road
12 November 2015
The 403 is complete now, but she needs a thorough tune-up
The silver paint enhances the curvy shape of the early Aerodynes
09 December 2015: first drive
It was about time that the 403 hit the road...after a faulty fuel tap made everybody crazy for days, I drove the 403 for the first time this afternoon.
This first one was not a very satisfying ride, steering and brakes being especially underwhelming
12 December 2015
Marco Gordini had a great idea: Saturday 12 December he drove the 403 up and down the Futa Pass, one of the most famous driving spots of Italy (just think of all the classic Mille Miglia passing there....), to test its engine, steering and especially brakes. He reported a marked improvement in every department: it seems that the old lady just needs some running-in and is getting better. Full marks to Marco for his pictures as well, they would not be out of place in the splendid Petrolicious, a site that I really recommend
The splendid 1947 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 'Aerlux' shows where the 401-403 'Aerodynes' came from.... a great Touring design! This car was sold for a whopping Euro 229,600 at the 'Duemila Ruote' R&M auction in Milano, Saturday 26 November 2016
16 December 2015
The 403 was driven by Marco Gordini on the Via Emilia up to Castel San Pietro, then we tried the A14 highway up to the Faenza exit. Finding that the overdrive does not work (light on, solenoid clicking but no overdrive effect) was a letdown. Too bad I didn't buy my O/D conversion from Spencer Lane Jones, they would surely help me now
Parked in the Faenza garage beside the 1966 409 and the 1949 MM. Mission accomplished!
