1 October 2026

Cars & Bikes

Best car after all? The appeal of a vintage Spider

A design opinion, with the practical limits of an old open car in mind.

An open two-seat car has an obvious visual appeal beside the sea. The Alfa Romeo Spider is one of the enduring references: Alfa Romeo's own heritage programme still highlights the 1966 1600 Spider 'Duetto' and offers archive, authentication and restoration services for classic cars. That is evidence of the model's history, not proof that the car pictured here is an authenticated example.

Why imagine a Spider on Mykonos? Its low line and unhurried proportions suggest a journey made for the road rather than the arrival. But the romantic image should not decide a real hire or purchase. Older cars need appropriate maintenance; an open cabin offers limited shelter and luggage space; local road conditions, parking, traffic rules and insurance matter more than a photograph.

Our answer to 'best car' is therefore deliberately subjective. The vintage Spider is a compelling design reference, not a measured top choice for everyone on the island. If driving matters more than the image, choose a vehicle that fits the passengers, route and conditions, and check its legal and mechanical status before setting off.