Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS La Serenissima

Vehicle Overview

The Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS La Serenissima by Carrozzeria Riva stands as a masterpiece of Italian automotive craftsmanship. Conceived by Guido Cattaneo, the design utilized a tubular chassis from GILCO, considered the epitome of engineering excellence in its day. The tubular structure was innovative, combining lightness and rigidity, with a reduced height at the front for a sleek profile. The independent suspension, using transverse leaf springs at both front and rear, underscored the car’s advanced engineering. A shortened wheelbase of 2560mm (100.8 inches) gave it added agility compared to the standard 6C 2500 SS. Power came from a war-surplus 2.5-litre Alfa Romeo straight-six engine, originally designed for naval use, paired with its stock transmission. These components, combined with the meticulous bodywork by Carrozzeria Riva, formed a vehicle both beautiful and technically sophisticated. The bespoke alloy body was shaped with input from Count Giovanni “Johnny” Lurani Cernuschi, a legendary figure in motorsport and automotive innovation. Lurani suggested modifications during the build, ensuring the design was both functional and elegant. The car’s styling and construction reflected the unmatched skill of Carrozzeria Riva craftsmen, who worked by eye rather than detailed drafts. The design of the Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 “La Serenissima” was very advanced for its time and the streamlining was really efficient and elegant. The car was low, sleek. The original colour was a very nice metalized light blue-grey and the interior was blue Connolly leather. In August of 1950 the car entered in the then-famous Venice Grand Prix of Concours d’Elegance at the famous Lido of Venice. All the top coachbuilders of Italy competed, including Pininfarina, Touring, Bertone, Castagna, Ghia, etc. but it was the Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Riva which won the Grand Prix of Elegance! PininFarina came personally to congratulate them for the success! The car was then delivered by Cattaneo to his customer, a young industrialist in Milan. It was soon sold to the U.S.A. at a bargain by its first owner. Rediscovered in 1975, it remained largely intact but required restoration. Acquired by collector Stephen Bruno in 2017, it underwent a meticulous five-year restoration, preserving its unique features and authenticity. The engine, believed to be its original naval-derived unit, was painstakingly rebuilt. Marque expert Gippo Salvetti lauded the Serenissima as a visionary GT, a testament to its creators’ foresight and craftsmanship. It remains a stunning example of innovation and artistry, embodying the spirit of post-war Italian motoring excellence.