
Clarkson Purchased This Tattered Alfa Romeo for a Few Dollars. Now It's Valued at a Significant Sum | Carscoops
Jeremy Clarkson's $600 Alfa Romeo from Top Gear could now command five-figure sums at auction
7 hours ago
by Brad Anderson
Jeremy Clarkson originally purchased the Alfa 75 featured in Top Gear for just £450, equivalent to roughly $600.
Despite its worn and unrestored appearance, the auction estimate has risen to between £12,000 and £15,000 (around $16,000 to $20,000).
Thanks to a rebuilt gearbox, a new clutch, and regular servicing, the vehicle remains operational.
Next month, enthusiasts of Top Gear will have a unique opportunity to acquire a significant piece of the show’s history: a car that not only made an on-screen appearance but also participated in one of its most memorable challenges. The car in question is a 1989 Alfa Romeo 75, which Jeremy Clarkson drove in an episode that aired in 2008.
The expected auction price is between £12,000 and £15,000 (about $16,000 to $20,000), a notable increase from Clarkson's initial purchase price.
In Season 11's third episode, Clarkson, along with his co-hosts Richard Hammond and James May, faced the challenge of purchasing an Alfa Romeo for under £1,000 (around $1,300). True to form, Clarkson managed to find this particular Alfa 75 for only £450 (roughly $600). He then applied a quick respray in a vivid green hue and took it for a drive around the Rockingham Motor Speedway.
A Story Worth Telling
Top Gear was able to acquire the compact sedan at such a low cost because it had sustained significant damage in the past and was declared a loss by the insurer. The current owner has had the car for the last 11 years, and its appearance remains unchanged since its feature on the show. Importantly, it has been serviced and maintained over the years, receiving a new clutch, a fully rebuilt gearbox, and a cam belt service.
The Alfa has logged just over 51,000 miles (approximately 82,000 kilometers) and is the sought-after 3.0 Veloce model, which is the top variant. It also boasts a rare leather interior, a feature not usually found in these cars, especially those initially purchased as budget-friendly options.
As expected, the exterior of the car shows signs of its condition, appearing as though it was taken directly from the Top Gear set. The interior has some flaws too, including exposed wiring and noticeable wear on the seats and steering wheel.
For those looking to own a piece of television memorabilia, this car could be an excellent option. However, if the pre-auction estimate holds true, it certainly won’t be an inexpensive acquisition.

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Clarkson Purchased This Tattered Alfa Romeo for a Few Dollars. Now It's Valued at a Significant Sum | Carscoops
The $600 Alfa Romeo owned by Jeremy Clarkson, featured on Top Gear, could now potentially sell for a five-figure amount at auction.