Looking for a return to an Italian classic......

[Andyt]

Greetings from Staffordshire. I've had quite a number of Italian cars over the last 35 years, with various Fiats, a Lancia Beta Spyder and a couple of Alfa Romeo Spiders. After a break of about ten years I'm looking at returning to the fold with another Spyder - or Spider. It will all be down to price and condition of what comes along. I'm familiar with Alfa specialists and the spares situation, but what is it like for Lancia Betas in general? I grew up with a Fiat twin cam vehicle on the drive, but time moves on and I confess to having lost touch with the spares scene, so any comments welcome.

On a plus point, I do have a box of special Fiat engine tools, courtesy of my late father who was a Fiat mechanic for many years before retirement. I've also found a Beta Spyder targa top in the roof of my garage, so maybe I could just buy the parts to build a car around it.....!

Last thing (for now) - If anyone has TFK171R, a beige Spyder last seen on EBay about six years ago, I have some photos and a few stories to tell.

[rossocorsa]

Spares are sometimes difficult but not impossible, I view it as part of the challenge and fun of ownership. You can certainly find most, probably all, the bits to keep a car on the road.

[HFStuart]

Mechanical add electrical are generally OK thanks to the fiat heritage add sales in US,  Oz,  S. A.  etc.  Bodywork is medium,  Mark has done a great job on getting some panels remade. Trim is more difficult especially S1 or pre face lift versions,  it will probably turn up eventually but you may have to wait add/or pay over the odds.

Many members have just-in-case spares they may be persuaded to part with though. 

[skidmarc]

just go for it like i am doing.just put a smile on your face 4 foot wide when driving .old cars talk to you when driving.i don't mean they talk but the feel throw the strearing wheel.
hope you know what i mean. modern cars are hopeless there are not true driver's cars no feeling input at the stearing wheel