I own an old Alfa,and you are correct about the price of any repair.I had a piston go out and what I would have to go through just to fix it,was such a hassle,it now adorns my yard as a flower planter.
I have access to Alfa engines and parts. What state are you in? I own 11 Fiats and 2 Alfas, own a repair shop and am nationaly certified with engines. Is the body still good. First which year/model is it. the 4 or v6? I may know someone who would buy it or can get you a running engine. che machina!
The piston or the Alfa?