As a design study by Marcello Gandini (chief designer at Bertone), the car was first presented at the 1967 World Expo 67 in Montreal. The name of the car also resulted from the exhibition location. The exterior appearance immediately attracted the interest of experts, so that it was decided to go into series production. The headlamps, partially concealed by lamellar covers, are a striking feature. While the covers were still rigid in the study at the world exhibition, they fold down in the production version when the lights are switched on.

The car was offered in Germany in 1975 without accessories at a list price of DM 35,000, which today corresponds to 48,400 euros when adjusted for inflation. The first oil crisis in 1973/74 hampered the commercial success of the Montreal, as it had quite high fuel consumption. Unlike many other Alfa types from the 1970s, the Montreal took much better care of rust, so that to this day numerous Montreals are still in roadworthy or even well-maintained condition.

The Montreal was sold from November 1970 to February 1977. A total of only 3917 vehicles were produced, other sources also mention 3925 units.