Usually, the production version of a concept car turns out somewhat less exciting. Often, the design is toned down, and the engine is suddenly smaller. None of that applies to the Alfa Romeo Montreal, which was presented at the 1967 World Exhibition in, yes, Montreal, equipped with a 1.6 Nord engine. Three years later, the creation designed by Marcello Gandini is introduced in its production version at the Geneva Motor Show, featuring a delightful V8. Instead of a compact 1.6 four-cylinder, the Montreal was equipped with a 2,593 cc V8 engine, producing 200 hp. In fact, the engine is a somewhat toned-down variant of the 33 Stradale, one of the most sensational Alfa Romeos ever. The chassis and suspension are strongly based on those of the GTV 1750. The five-speed gearbox comes from ZF, and the Montreal is equipped with a limited-slip differential as standard. As striking as the engine is, the appearance of the Montreal is equally remarkable. The very characteristic grilles behind the doors are particularly notable. These were originally intended for cooling the engine on the concept car, as that prototype had the engine placed behind the front seats. From a styling perspective, they were retained when the engine was moved to the front. This Montreal dates back to December 1972 and was delivered in the highly prized colour “Bertone Orange.” The car spent most of its life in Frankfurt, Germany, and was previously restored by a true enthusiast. During this restoration, the Montreal was resprayed in the correct colour, which complements the car beautifully, especially when combined with the black upholstery and dark red carpet. The bodywork is in excellent condition, with very nice paintwork and meticulous attention to panel fit and gaps during the restoration. This is essential, as any imperfections are readily apparent due to the bold, flat colour. Other exterior components, such as the bumpers, black parts, and wheels, are all in very healthy condition. The elegantly designed louvers for the headlights function properly as well. The interior is also in very neat condition. The seats look great and are without any damage, the rest of the interior is in an equally well-maintained condition. The attractive instrument cluster has a unique appearance, with the speedometer and tachometer housed in larger circles also containing other gauges. Powering the Montreal is a 2.6-litre V8 engine equipped with Spica fuel injection. With this engine, the car can reach a top speed of 220 kilometres per hour (137 mph), and the well-known 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint takes only 7.1 seconds. These were impressive figures for its time and are still respectable today. Driving a Montreal is a genuine pleasure. The chassis and brakes of this car are more than sufficient and provide an excellent driving experience. For owners of an Alfa Romeo ‘Bertone’ or Giulia, there may be some sense of familiarity but it also provides its very own feeling experience. The powerful engine and rear-positioned seats give it a unique feel compared to a regular Alfa Romeo from the 105-series, to which this Montreal belongs. Driving this Italian car strikes a balance between comfort and sportiness. While city traffic is manageable, the Montreal undoubtedly prefers open roads with enjoyable bends, whether in Italy along Lake Como or in the Netherlands on dike roads. The Montreal also feels at home on the highway, comfortably covering long distances at above-average speeds. This Montreal has been meticulously cared for and offers the opportunity to own one of the only 3,925 produced. The car comes with necessary documentation, including correspondence between the previous owner and the Archivo Storico regarding the originality of this beautiful, but above all, fantastic-driving Alfa Romeo Montreal.