The motors and suspension were top notch. The only problem with all the Italian cars were electronics and body rust.
Aluminum twin cam engines with timing *chains* rather than belts like the Fiats.
My '64 GTV 2 liter had mechanical fuel injection and was one of the favorite cars I've had.
Drove it for 7 years and it didn't deteriorate significantly over that time. Cosmetic rust only.
Had to sand the mechanical ignition points every month or so to keep it running right though.
The 86 matches it so closely in driving experience it would be hard to tell the difference other than the clutch operation.
The Alfa wore my leg out. I like the 86 clutch much better.
Also you've got no credit as a petrolhead unless you've owned an Alfa Romeo
edit: I don't care for rag tops mostly because of the rag aspect and rain up here in Seatte.
I've driven a '66 spider, a '58 Giulietta spider and a 2600 straight six spider.
The 1250, 1650 and 1750 motors and driving are just as good. The 6C was monster.