"... but can they really be worse than a 73 Alfa Spyder?"
The short answer is "Yes, they can." Like the 73 Alfa, and many other European cars from that era, Europas require a good deal of servicing and fettling. I've done quite a few long trips 1K to 5K and something always comes up. Nothing major because I keep on top of servicing and maintenance -- how does three sets of rear axle bearings in under 30K sound (there's a story, there's always a story) -- but maybe a rearview mirror falls off, or 3 days of heavy rain lead to damp bottoms (S1), or the reverse light fuse blows, or etc. Niggling is in their nature. Added against the Europa is a marginal rear suspension set up, Rube Goldberg worthy shift linkage and a barely adequate cooling system. Keep on top of things, be prepared for minor issues, and they work just fine. I love mine and just bought a Lotus Seven, which makes the Europa seem like a Rolls, and I plan to drive the Seven across Canada, so I'm certifiable.
If all this sounds familiar and, frankly, kind of fun, you've chosen the right car and come to the right place. The handling is whatever comes after telepathic. It's not "like" driving a '60s sports racer on the road, it is driving a '60s sports racer on the road. It is also, unexpectedly, divinely comfortable, albeit noisy, on long trips.
If not, please buy a Miata or Toyota MR2. No word of a lie, they are great cars, give very little trouble, and no constant nagging dread of impending doom as you pass the no services for xxx miles signs.
