Classic spider as everyday car?

[Alfachick]

Am thinking about 'investing' in a classic Alfa Romeo Spider 1970's vintage, would it be silly to think that I can run this as an everyday car? I don't have a garage, but will have it professionally rust proofed (if its possible to rust proof any 70's car). Also it will be sitting for fairly long periods of time (2-8 weeks) as I work offshore. Am I dreaming or is it possible?
I don't mind having to jump start it when I get back from offshore as I have to do this anyway with my current Alfa.
Only thing is due to not having a garage I think that it would probably deteriorate quite quickly, would it be worth getting a decent outdoors car cover?
Opinions please.
Thank you

[sassthathoopie]

Having worked offshore for years I have experienced a reliable car becoming less reliable due to irregular use, and storage outside under a cover. This was an imported 1991 MX5, so I hate to think what the effect might be on a classic Alfa Spider.

Maybe try one of the late ones? Don't know much about Alfas, but they may be better painted/rustproofed and electrically may be better too. Not the same though I know!

Good luck

[BigAlinEmbra]

I would recommend leaving the car with me whilst you are offshore.
Aside from that, buy one. Cos they look nice.

[Alfachick]

BigAlinEmbra said:

I would recommend leaving the car with me whilst you are offshore.
Aside from that, buy one. Cos they look nice.

Fraid you're too late, a friend of mine has offered his garage space if he gets on the insurance as a named driver. Sorry

So now I have a garage sorted out (kinda) what should I be looking for when I go to buy one apart from rust issues? Are there any known mechanical niggles or anything like that to look out for?
Will the car be fairly reliable if correctly serviced etc?
I have my heart set on one, just need to find the right one now.......

[BigAlinEmbra]

I'm taking my ball and going home as I'm not allowed to play any more.

• flounce*

[JonSpiderMan]

Alfachick said:

BigAlinEmbra said:

I would recommend leaving the car with me whilst you are offshore.
Aside from that, buy one. Cos they look nice.

Fraid you're too late, a friend of mine has offered his garage space if he gets on the insurance as a named driver. Sorry

So now I have a garage sorted out (kinda) what should I be looking for when I go to buy one apart from rust issues? Are there any known mechanical niggles or anything like that to look out for?
Will the car be fairly reliable if correctly serviced etc?
I have my heart set on one, just need to find the right one now.......

I've got a 1976 S2 spider.. have had no major problems with it but have kept it well maintained, mines done about 104,000 miles now, but it's tucked away in the garage during the winter, definately needs to be kept in a garage to preserve the bodywork.

Things to check are sills and wheel arches for signs of rust, also check the wheel well in the boot. Electrics are the other thing to check as they can be a pain to sort out, make sure that all the basics (lights, heater, horn etc function correctly)

In terms of finding one have a look at

www.alfaholics.com
www.alfaowner.com
www.aroc-uk.com