A return to the lightweight sports coupe group is on the cards for Alfa Romeo, with the announcement of the latest 4C model. Using advanced materials and construction methods, the upcoming model is expected to deliver “pure driving satisfaction”.
The 4C will be made using the very best technology Alfa has to offer, with the new, all-aluminium petrol engine, as well as the latest-generation “Alfa TCT” dry twin clutch control transmission. Furthermore, the Alfa DNA driving mode selector will allow those behind the wheel to select the all new “Race” mode.
Labelled as the descendent to the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, the car comes with the familiar mid-engine specification, with a carbon fibre shell delivering the low weight. The bodywork is built using Formula 1-derived technologies to allow series production of up to 1,000 units per year.
The car is of a compact design, measuring just four metres in length, making it much shorter than other vehicles in the sports coupe category. However, the manufacturer has said the car will deliver supercar performance, with a new four-cylinder turbo engine.
Using direct injection, the 1750 Turbo Petrol unit is able to produce record-breaking numbers for an engine of its size. Delivering 200Nm- and 137hp-per-litre, the maximum power output is 240hp at 6,000 rpm.
Reaching 0 to 62mph in just 4.5 seconds and with a top speed of 160 mph, the car will be a force to be reckoned with in its class.
While those with a need for speed are unlikely to be swayed by the vehicle’s eco-efficiency, some might be pleased to hear that the new 4C does still manage to fall within the strict emissions guidelines set out in the Euro 6 regulations.
With the lightweight body, engine and top quality transmission technologies, the car is able to deliver a fuel economy of 41.5mpg while producing emissions of just 157g/km.
And that’s really what everyone cares about, right?
Don’t worry though, you can still expect the Alfa to produce an almighty roar, as the manufacturer has engineered the exhaust to emit a full, rich sound.
When it comes to looks, it fits in with the typical Alfa styling. The V-line grille and winged bonnet complement the aerodynamic shape, while the rear-end protrudes.
In order to continue with the theme of “pure driving satisfaction”, the driving seat is supposed to allow the person behind the wheel to experience every movement and reaction of the car, delivering a drive that can be felt at a visceral level.
Unassisted steering is to give the driver as much feedback and feel as possible, with a 16.2 steering ratio meaning that 90 per cent of bends can be tackled without the need to remove a driver’s hands from the wheel.
The interior technology has been boosted up too, with traditional dials making way for a multi-function digital display.
Alfa Romeo’s 4C could hit the UK by October this year. If you want a piece of the action, a fee in the region of £45,000 must be paid. There is no time for delay, however, as Alfa expects to deliver just 3,500 units of the model.
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