A battered car Jeremy Clarkson bought for just £450 on Top Gear is now selling for £15,000 – and he doesn’t even have an MoT.
The 1989 Alfa Romeo 75 V6 3.0 Veloce was driven by the star for an episode of the former motoring TV show.
It appeared in episode three, series 11 in 2008, when the three presenters were tasked with buying an Alfa Romeo for under £1000.
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Clarkson bought this 137mph car for just £450, highlighting its rear-mounted gearbox for improved weight distribution, limited-slip differential, and distinctive in-board rear brakes.
He praised its 3.0-litre Busso V6 engine, calling it “one of the best engines ever to go into mass production.”
Throughout the episode, the car faced several challenges, including a track day at Rockingham Motor Speedway.
There was also a calendar photoshoot, and the Auto Italia Stanford Hall Concours, for which Clarkson personally repainted it in a memorable shade he called ‘Skoda Green’.
The car still has much of Clarkson’s original paintwork and battle scars from its TV adventures, as reported by What’s The Jam.
It is now being sold at auction.
Its listing states: “Following its appearance on Top Gear, the Alfa Romeo 75 has been meticulously maintained during 11 years of current ownership, with approximately £4,500 invested mechanically.
“Important work has included a cam belt service, a new clutch, and a gearbox rebuild.
“With just over 51,000 miles on the clock, the car comes with a comprehensive history file, original handbooks, stamped service book, old MOT records, and a detailed DVLA ownership history.
“The sale includes replacement doors and bonnet for those interested in returning it to standard specification.”
The listing adds: “A great opportunity to buy a TV ‘star car’ that starts, runs and stops.
“Last MOT expired in 2017.
“Category ‘C’ Insurance Loss.
“Vehicle extensively damaged but repairable.
“Insurer decided not to repair it.”
Auctioneer, Rob Hubbard, said: “This Alfa Romeo 75 is an enjoyable and quirky piece of Top Gear history, ideal for those who appreciate characterful cars with an engaging backstory.
“We’re delighted to present cars like this, celebrating automotive passion at every level.”
It will be auctioned by Iconic Auctioneers on Sunday (24 Aug) at Silverstone, Northants.
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