Amidst a Sea of Mercedes, the 1971 Alfa Romeo Berlina Stood Out

A Unique Approach to Restomods

In a world where many car enthusiasts are drawn to the latest models, Matt Kwiek has carved out a niche for himself by focusing on restomods—specifically, blending modern Mercedes drivetrains with vintage chassis. As the owner of Kwiek Classics and the mastermind behind the MARS name, Matt has built a reputation for creating some of the cleanest and most capable restomods in the industry.

But what makes Matt’s shop stand out is not just his expertise in Mercedes restomods. One vehicle that catches attention is a 1971 Alfa Romeo Berlina 1750. This car, initially purchased as a placeholder for his dream Alfa GTV, quickly became a favorite. Its charm, capability, and ease of use won Matt over, and after proving itself at the 2021 Round Headlamp Rally, it earned a permanent spot in his garage.

The Journey of a Self-Taught Mechanic

Matt's journey into the world of car restoration and modification began without formal training. He learned through trial and error, often finding himself in situations where he had to figure things out on his own. His first experiences with Mercedes cars started with a 190 model, which eventually led him to more powerful engines and modifications.

One of his early projects involved swapping engines in a variety of vehicles. From a 2.6 to a 3.0, then a 3.6, and finally a 5.4-liter engine from an E55, Matt's passion for performance and reliability was evident. These experiences helped shape his approach to restomods, where he focuses on making classic cars more drivable and reliable for everyday use.

A Unique Project: The 1964 Mercedes 230 SL

Among the many projects Matt has taken on, one stands out: a 1964 Mercedes 230 SL, affectionately known as the “Pagoda” due to its distinctive hardtop design. Originally a failed restoration, this car underwent a significant transformation. Instead of sticking to traditional V8 swaps, Matt opted for a modern 5.4-liter engine from an S55 AMG, providing both power and reliability.

This project exemplifies Matt's philosophy: making classic cars functional and enjoyable to drive. By using modern components, he ensures that these vehicles can be driven regularly rather than being stored away in collections.

The Alfa Romeo Berlina: A Hidden Gem

Matt's fascination with Alfa Romeo began long before he owned the Berlina. While many people were unaware of the Berlina model, Matt saw potential in it. After struggling to afford a GTV, he turned his attention to other sedans from the racing era. However, his journey with Alfas took a different turn when he worked at an Alfa race shop in Seattle.

It was there that his obsession with Alfa Romeo deepened. Eventually, he acquired the Berlina through a unique arrangement, trading a rebuilt engine for the car. Despite the initial challenges of bringing the Berlina back to life, Matt found that it offered a balance of practicality and performance that made it a standout in his collection.

The Berlina’s Performance and Appeal

After spending time with the Berlina, Matt realized it was more than just a placeholder—it was a car that could hold its own. Despite its age, the Berlina proved to be reliable and fun to drive. It even participated in the 2021 Round Headlamp Rally, showcasing its capabilities on the road.

While Matt eventually bought a GTV 2000, he found that the Berlina offered more space, a longer wheelbase, and a more robust 1750 engine. The Berlina's ability to handle spirited driving without breaking any laws made it a favorite among enthusiasts.

A Community of Enthusiasts

For Matt, the joy of car restoration goes beyond the mechanics. He has found a community of like-minded individuals who share his passion. Whether it's through his work at Kwiek Classics or his personal projects, Matt continues to build connections and share his knowledge with others.

In a world where many cars end up in collections, Matt's approach ensures that classic vehicles remain part of the driving experience. Through his work, he not only preserves the legacy of these cars but also brings them into the present, making them accessible and enjoyable for future generations.