Alfa Romeo 1900 SS La Fleche

Vehicle Overview

The Alfa Romeo 1900 La Flèche, unveiled at the 1955 Turin Motor Show by Carrozzeria Vignale, epitomizes the artistic brilliance of mid-20th-century automotive design. This unique creation, a one-off masterpiece based on the Alfa Romeo 1900C Super Sprint, was the result of Giovanni Michelotti‘s exceptional design skills. The name “La Flèche,” translating to “Arrow” in French, perfectly encapsulates the car’s sleek, aerodynamic profile. The 1900 La Flèche was adorned in an alluring blue marine paint that highlighted its elegant lines and curves. Its design featured an array of chrome elements that enhanced its visual appeal, making it a striking presence on the road. One of the most distinctive aspects of the car was its heart-shaped Alfa Romeo scudetto grille, which paid homage to the iconic design of Viotti’s 1936 Alfa Romeo 6C 2300 Berlina Aerodinamica Pescara, a creation by Mario Revelli di Beaumont. This nod to historical design underscored the 1900 La Flèche’s blend of classic elegance and modern innovation. The car’s elegance and distinct design earned it a spot at prestigious events, including the 2019 Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza, where it captured the admiration of automotive enthusiasts and experts. Carrozzeria Vignale’s use of French nomenclature for the model name reflected their tradition of naming creations with French titles, further emphasizing the car’s sophisticated aura. Alongside the convertible variant, Vignale also crafted a coupé, mirroring the striking aesthetics of the La Flèche. Both versions showcased Vignale’s commitment to blending Alfa Romeo’s classic design elements with Michelotti’s innovative touch. The 1900 La Flèche remains a cherished piece of automotive history, celebrated for its fusion of traditional craftsmanship and forward-thinking design. Its enduring legacy continues to capture the essence of 1950s automotive artistry, making it a standout example of the era’s creative brilliance.

Photos courtesy of Lopresto Collection