Introduction
This manual serves as an informational guide to the book Alfa Romeo: Sporting Saloons by John Tipler. It aims to provide readers with a structured overview of the book's content, its historical context, and key features, enhancing the understanding and appreciation of this photographic history of Alfa Romeo saloon cars.
The book delves into the rich heritage of Alfa Romeo's saloon cars, renowned for their sporting handling and performance, often sharing mechanical components with their GT and sports car counterparts. It highlights how the stiffer saloon bodyshells sometimes offered superior handling compared to coupes or Spiders.
About the Book

The image above displays the front cover of the book 'Alfa Romeo: Sporting Saloons'. It features a silver Alfa Romeo 156 car in the foreground, with the iconic Alfa Romeo emblem prominently displayed in the background. The title and author, John Tipler, are clearly visible.
The book commences with an introduction to Alfa Romeo's legacy as a manufacturer of world-class sports and touring vehicles since 1910, tracing its initial foray into the mass market during the 1950s. It meticulously chronicles the evolution of famous models from the 1950s and 1960s, such as the Giulietta and Giulia.
The narrative extends into the 1970s, covering significant models like the Alfetta, Alfa 6, Alfa 90, and the highly charismatic Alfasud. Furthermore, the book provides detailed coverage of the 1980s and 1990s, featuring the groundbreaking Alfa Romeo 156, which was recognized as Car of the Year in 1997, and the Alfa Romeo 166.
Key Themes and Content Overview
The book systematically explores the development and impact of Alfa Romeo's saloon cars through various eras:
- Early Heritage (1910s-1950s): Foundation of Alfa Romeo's sporting identity and initial steps into mass production.
- Iconic Models of the '50s and '60s: Detailed examination of the Giulietta and Giulia series, highlighting their design and performance.
- 1970s Innovations: Coverage of the Alfetta, Alfa 6, Alfa 90, and the distinctive Alfasud, showcasing technological advancements and design shifts.
- 1980s and 1990s Evolution: Focus on later models, including the critically acclaimed Alfa Romeo 156 and 166, and their contribution to the brand's modern image.
Care and Preservation
To ensure the longevity and pristine condition of your copy of Alfa Romeo: Sporting Saloons, please follow these general care guidelines:
- Storage: Store the book in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight or extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Handling: Always handle the book with clean, dry hands to prevent smudges and oil transfer to the pages and cover.
- Protection: Avoid folding pages, creasing the spine excessively, or placing heavy objects on top of the book when stored horizontally.
- Cleaning: For dust, gently wipe the cover with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Sutton Pub Ltd |
| Publication Date | January 1, 1999 |
| Language | English |
| Print Length | 160 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0750920785 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0750920780 |
| Item Weight | 10.6 ounces |
| Dimensions | 7 x 0.5 x 10 inches |
Publisher Information
This book, Alfa Romeo: Sporting Saloons, is published by Sutton Pub Ltd. For any specific inquiries regarding the publication or content, please refer to the publisher's official contact channels or website.





