Alfa Romeo introduced the Giulia with very high hopes as redeeming itself as a producer of thrill-inducing, beautiful but also sporty sedans. To some extent, the luscious Giulia had the desired effect, but it still needs some smoothing around the corners if it wants to take on the die-hard Germans.

The same can be said about the Giulia QV, which certainly got the performance and looks right, but still struggles on the reliability front when it comes to mechanical and electrical systems. But how does it fare when driven next to its spiritual predecessor, the GTV?

The Giulia can win some track day contests, but so can the GTV

Alfa brought the 1750 GTV - aka Gran Turismo Veloce - to replace the nimble Sprint Veloce together with a long list of tweaks, including a bump in displacement. The 1.8-liter engine cranked out 120 horsepower and the U.S. and Canada-bound cars got a fuel injection system, while in other markets the GTV was carbureted.

Arguably, the GTV’s biggest selling point was the light weight it carried around, which had a lot of say in the Italian’s nimble behavior on a bendy road. Those who wanted (slightly) more power had to wait until 1971 when Alfa Romeo brought in the 2000 GTV. Engine capacity took a hike to two liters and subsequently, power output went up to 130 horsepower.

Now, the GTV in the video has been restored to perfection and the owner even drives it hard during track days - the way it’s supposed to be if you ask us. In theory, the Giulia QV should be an apt partner for a day on the track, too, but we doubt too many owners take them on a circuit.

So, the real question is: which is better on a public road? The new or the old? Check out Throttle House’s video to get your answer.