Alfa Romeo Spider 939 (2006–2010) Price Guide

The 939-series Spider was the open-top version of the Brera, and like the Brera it was a car that looked stunning but carried too much weight to fully exploit its engines. It was the last Spider Alfa Romeo produced.

The Car

Launched in 2006 on a platform developed jointly with GM, the 939 Spider was styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro at Italdesign — the man behind the original Volkswagen Golf, the Lotus Esprit, and the Lancia Delta. Available with 2.2 and 3.2-litre JTS direct-injection petrol engines and a 2.4 JTDm five-cylinder diesel. The 3.2 V6 offered Q4 all-wheel drive. A 1750 TBi turbo petrol replaced the 2.2 JTS late in production. The fabric roof was electrically operated.

The Weight Problem

The 939 Spider weighed over 1,600kg — substantially heavier than the 916 it replaced. The 2.2 JTS felt adequate at best. The 3.2 V6 Q4 had the power but the weight blunted its responses. The 2.4 JTDm diesel was arguably the best all-round engine, combining strong torque with reasonable economy, though the idea of a diesel Spider remains heretical to some.

Faults

The JTS engines suffer from premature timing chain wear — an expensive repair. The M32 six-speed gearbox on 2.2 JTS and 1.9 JTDm cars is prone to sixth-gear bearing failure. The 1750 TBi turbo is sensitive to oil specification. The hood mechanism is more reliable than the 916’s but still needs careful inspection. The 939 Spider shares all its mechanical components with the Brera coupe.