Alfa Romeo «

After 18 months of intensive development of the 2.2 JTS direct injection engine, Autodelta is pleased to announce that it will unveil the bespoke Alfa 159 J4 2.2 C at an exclusive event at the Yacht Harbour of Driessen, Amsterdam, on 20th & 21st of June.

The Autodelta J4 2.2 C (C denoting “Compressore”) will become the third member of the exclusive bespoke J-series models, joining the Brera J5 3.2 C and Spider J6 3.2 C in the range when it is commercialised from July 1st; and like the other two established sports cars, its integral theme continues a long tradition of applying forced induction principles by Autodelta to develop nothing less than the very ultimate expression of high performance motoring.

However, while the Brera J5 and Spider J6 models have focused on improving Alfa Romeo’s 3.2 V6 engine, the 159 J4 2.2 C will be launched with a supercharged version of the 2.2 JTS direct injection petrol engine. The addition of a Rotrex C30-74 supercharger and a specifically-developed system boosts the 2.2-litre unit’s power from the standard 185bhp up to 245 bhp, an increase of 60 bhp. Meanwhile peak torque is lifted from 230Nm to 290Nm, giving the sports saloon an extra 60Nm of torque.

Supercharging the 2.2 JTS engine and evolving the 159 J4 2.2 C package to perfection has been a long-term project for Autodelta, running alongside the development programmes to realise the J5 and J6. Autodelta’s engineering team was able to build on valuable experience gained when it became the first company in the world to apply forced induction to Alfa Romeo’s 2.0 JTS unit, as used in the 156 and GT models; and although an all-new unit, many of the important lessons learnt, and technical knowledge gained, were carried forward to the 2.2 JTS project.

“Both are high compression engines, which mean that a very thorough development programme is called for,” says Autodelta’s Managing Director Jano Djelalian, “but one of the biggest advantages is that a high performance driving experience can be coupled to excellent fuel efficiency, something that is becoming more important with ever rising oil prices.” In fact Autodelta’s technical excellence is quite simply unchallenged: no other company has been able to successfully supercharge and commercialise Alfa Romeo’s direct-injection JTS engines.

The Brera J5 3.2 C revolutionised Autodelta’s operations when it was added to the range in the autumn of 2005, creating a demand that resulted in a restructuring programme being implemented in order to offer customers respectable waiting times. “Alfa Romeo created a superbly stylish sports car with the Brera, and one that we were able to take forward in a number of areas,” says Jano, “It moved us forward as we welcomed a whole new type of customer coming through our doors; for the first time we also had one model that was in demand right across the world, and as well as gearing up to cope with it here, we had to take our global network of agents one step further.” The engineering had to be designed in such a way that Autodelta’s fully trained agents are able to install the supercharger package and test the cars in a most efficient manner. To that effect, the 2.2 JTS Supercharger package has an installation time of only six to seven hours, and then all cars are driven between sixty and eighty miles to complete the testing process.

“The J5 arrived just as we celebrated our 20th anniversary,” continues Jano, “and it has superbly launched us into our third decade.” The global demand for the J5 saw Autodelta’s R&D operation also being restructured and expanded to other regions to spread the demand placed on its UK HQ and allow all new models to be targeted at specific markets right from their launch. Autodelta’s two main R&D satellite hubs are in Athens (Greece) and Moscow (Russia). This widening of focus gives Autodelta’s engineers the ability to run the cars in extreme climatic conditions of heat and cold as well as in very dusty conditions and on surfaces that are extremely challenging. It also allows the cars electronics’ to perfectly suit the different requirement posed by local fuel characteristics.

Development of the 159 J4 2.2 C was able to slot perfectly into this new organisation, with more than half a dozen test cars running in three countries. Autodelta has been able to smoothly bring its development partners into the new structure, including Rotrex (superchargers), OZ (wheels) and Dunlop (tyres). “We have also learnt a lot from taking the decision to run testing on some of the most demanding race circuits in Europe,” says Jano. “The Nürburgring in particular puts a huge strain on every part of the car, not least the brakes, and every flaw is amplified; so we have gained invaluable feedback from taking this route. Although we are a small company with finite resources we want to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of high performance motoring.”

Before starting the supercharger installation project Autodelta’s engineers had to develop solutions to driveability issues that come into the equation. “We listened very closely to customers who had bought the 2.2 JTS and the points they raised,” says Jano. “A re-map to perfect these criteria and optimise the performance was developed.” This re-map will be made available by Autodelta for the standard 2.2 JTS aspirated models, similar to a re-map which has been commercialised for the 3.2 V6 engine; and it will improve driveability, increase performance and improve fuel consumption.

The 159 J4 2.2 C features a completely new aluminium inlet manifold as the factory plastic unit was not able to withstand the 0.65 bar boost which the Rotrex C30-74 unit is producing. The new inlet manifold design, now with a reduced volume was also a critical part of the development as we managed to increase the speed of response says Autodelta’s head of Research & Development, Sergio Truzzi. “Changes to the inlet and exhaust camshaft variator control strategy had to be initiated to generate more continuous torque and improve driveability,” adds Sergio.

With increasing fuel prices and taxation rising on larger capacity engines, Autodelta believe the 2.2 JTS supercharged engine offers certain beneficial advantages over the 3.2 V6. The additional advantage of a lighter kerb weight than the 3.2 V6 Q4 model means that the 2.2 JTS supercharged cars are almost 150 Kilograms lighter and therefore have a better bhp per ton ratio in comparison.

Autodelta has also taken a slightly different overall approach for this project, the third J-series model, in light of the excellent characteristics of the production Alfa 159 2.2 JTS. “During the extensive test programme we were very impressed with the chassis’ all-round capability as factory standard,” says Sergio, “and we found that with the additional performance from the supercharger the very capable chassis came alive and coped extremely well as far as grip and steering turn in was concerned. This clearly demonstrates the inherent sporty nature of the 159 chassis,” he continues. “Although the standard brakes also coped very well, we felt the Selespeed supercharged versions did incur some brake fade; improving the braking window was addressed by developing new perforated brake discs.”

Due to the inherent responsiveness of the overall Alfa 159 package to the supercharging conversion Autodelta will offer the J4 package with its bespoke Rotrex supercharger system, while utilising the car’s standard components. “We’re very pleased with how this project has turned out,” says Jano, “it means we will be able to offer a fully supercharged car at a highly competitive price, and hopefully bring the Autodelta driving option to a wider audience than has been the case, which is especially relevant with the broad appeal that the Alfa 159 offers. The cornerstone of our philosophy has always to blend extreme performance with day-to-day practicality, and with the wide appeal of the Alfa 159 this becomes even more requisite.

“Overall we feel the cars are more then capable to fulfil most drivers’ demands but of course we have gone a further step to satisfy the most demanding of owners and for the most extreme usage of the cars,” says Jano. This has involved progressive all round dynamic development of the car to create a cutting-edge, envelope-pushing sports saloon. The Alfa 159 is based on the same architecture as the Brera, allowing technology applied on the Brera J5 3.2 C to form the underlying basis of the upgrade. A fully adjustable coil over suspension set up allows for height adjustment as well as rebound adjustment to enable the driver to fine tune the car for any occasion. Up-rated perforated brake discs and special compound pads improve the braking capability, while an entirely new aerodynamic package will present a distinct new styling direction.

Autodelta will also release a special ‘Corsa’ tuning kit for the 245 bhp supercharged 159 J4 2.2 C, that will see the car producing more power than the 260 bhp currently available in the Alfa 159 3.2 V6; the Corsa tuning kit will be available as a retro fit for those who want even more power and is fully reversible.

2008 Alfa Spider Limited Edition
Alfa Romeo Mi.To First Images Official Released

Few sports cars are developed specifically for Britain`s roads. Those that have been tend to become true `driver`s cars`. Alfa Romeo is planning for the new, limited edition Alfa Brera S to join those ranks.

After a year of intensive suspension and chassis development at Prodrive, the world-leading motorsport specialist, the result is a sports coupe that subtly enhances all that is good about the original Alfa Brera, while bestowing it with outstanding driver feedback and handling.

Distinctly different from the rest of the line-up, this unique addition to Alfa Romeo`s UK range includes refined styling changes, inside and out. And to ensure ultimate exclusivity, production of the Alfa Brera S will be limited to just 500 individually numbered models.

Power comes from a choice of two existing direct injection petrol engines – the 185 bhp 2.2 JTS and the 260 bhp 3.2 V6 JTS.

Marketing director at Alfa Romeo UK, Nicholas Bernard, says: “Significantly, the Alfa Brera S isn`t simply about brute force, it`s about how the available power is transferred to the road and how the road surface is communicated back to the driver to bring new levels of sports handling and driver-focused confidence and involvement.”

Briefed to make the Alfa Brera S less of a long-distance tourer and more sporty on UK roads, the engineering team at Prodrive developed a unique suspension set-up. Prodrive engineers meticulously experimented with spring rates and ride heights to match the reduced weights of the 2008 model year Alfa Breras. Then followed an extensive damper tuning exercise to achieve the desired ride/handling balance and steering response required by driving enthusiasts in the UK.

According to Prodrive Project Leader, Peter Cambridge, the result is “a car that `shrinks` around the driver and delivers all the fun and engagement of a sports car driving experience on A and B-roads. Yet, on motorways, offers a compliant and composed ride.”

The sports car driving experience is achieved by reducing roll and pitch, flattening the cornering attitude, and subsequently instilling confidence-inspiring steering.

Peter Cambridge comments: “Our painstaking work with the spring set-up controls exactly how much the car pitches and rolls with every lump, bump, camber and pothole on our roads. Then we developed the dampers to control the rate at which the springs respond. Once we were satisfied with that, we set about really affecting the feel and response of the steering to inspire confidence.”

To reduce roll and pitch and achieve an even flatter cornering attitude, Prodrive commissioned bespoke Eibach coil springs and Bilstein dampers.

Spring rates are increased by over 50 per cent compared to the standard Alfa Brera, giving the car a more nimble and agile feel, while the specially tuned gas-filled mono-tube dampers give tighter body control. A careful balance has been created to maintain good compliance over ridges and bumps in the road.

At the same time, the suspension static geometry has also been revised to optimise steering and handling. These changes, together with new 19″ alloy wheels and Pirelli PZero Nero tyres, have created a more responsive turn-in to corners, with increased driver feedback, allowing the driver to explore the dynamic limits of the car.

To further enhance suspension geometry, the cars have been lowered by 10 mm front and rear. This lower centre of gravity helps reduce roll and improve cornering and braking performance. In addition, the lowered suspension gives the Alfa Brera S a more purposeful stance.

At each corner of the Alfa Brera S, unique Alfa 8C Competizione-inspired, lightweight 19″ alloy wheels have been fitted. Although the wheels are eye-catching, the all-new design was commissioned by Prodrive primarily for performance, rather than just cosmetic appeal. The reason is unsprung weight – the weight carried by the car on the `road side` of the spring and shock absorber. This plays a significant role in the way the car steers, handles and transmits feedback to the driver.

The lighter the wheel, the better it tracks undulations in the road surface without requiring heavy damping to control it. The unsprung weight has been further reduced by the adoption of hollow anti-roll bars and aluminium suspension components from the Factory.

As a result, the weight of both Alfa Brera S models is lower than the rest of the range. The front-wheel drive 3.2 V6 JTS is almost 100 kg lighter than the Q4 version and the 2.2 JTS version weighs 35 kg less.

The Alfa Brera S also sounds different from the standard range. The original characteristic growl of the V6 has been enhanced by careful redesign of the rear silencers. Thanks to a Holmholtz resonator connected in tandem with each silencer, the 2.2 JTS model now emits a sportier yet refined burble.

The exhaust has been altered to mirror the shape of the rear lights. Finished with chrome embellishers, they feature a Prodrive logo on the tailpipe exterior. This is just one of several subtle exterior enhancements to the award-winning Alfa Brera, including Prodrive branded front stone deflectors, and a bespoke red `S` or `SV6` on the C-pillar.

Inside the 3.2 V6 JTS Alfa Brera S, changes are more obvious. Not only are the supportive sports seats upholstered in soft black Frau® leather with red stitching, so are the dashboard fascia, door panels, steering wheel and gearlever. The centre console and instruments are faced in a dark finish. This interior can also be specified on the 2.2 JTS version.

Foot pedals are fashioned from drilled aluminium and the headrest recess houses a limited edition Brera S aluminium plate, featuring the flags of Italy and Britain.

For the record, the 2.2 JTS and 3.2 V6 JTS Alfa Brera S can reach 62 mph from rest in 8.6 and 7.0 seconds respectively, on the way to maximum speeds of 139 and 155 mph.

The transition from Alfa Brera to Brera S takes place at Alfa Romeo UK`s dedicated import centre, near Bristol, and is overseen by Prodrive.

Nicholas Bernard says: “The standard Brera is well loved and delivers a great all-round driving experience. But the Alfa Brera S is deliberately honed, tuned and fettled for British roads and aimed directly at a dedicated audience of driving enthusiasts.”

Perfectly timed for summer, Italian sporting car manufacturer, Alfa Romeo, has extended the head turning Alfa Spider range with a limited edition version. Complete with £3000 worth of extra features at no extra cost, the Alfa Spider Limited Edition effortlessly unites the head and heart with dramatic effect.

The Alfa Spider Limited Edition features a choice of four color combinations, alloy wheels, leather upholstery, electrically adjustable and heated memory front seats and door mirrors. Yet the price remains a cool £25,500. The extra features include Italian Frau® leather upholstery and the unique Blue&Me™ hands-free system with voice recognition and media player.

Bespoke colours for the Alfa Spider Limited Edition include a Carbonio Black version with a natural leather upholstery while the Alfa Red exterior paintwork is matched to a black leather interior. The super-cool Ghiaccio White color scheme comes with a choice of either black or natural leather upholstery. For added driver and passenger comfort, these leather seats are heated to keep the occupant warm whilst the roof is down on early morning starts or late night drives.

Equipped with 19” spoked alloy wheels, the limited edition Alfa Spider looks purposeful and powerful. Under the bonnet the 2.2 JTS petrol engine produces 185bhp and powers the Alfa Spider from 0 – 62mph in 8.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 139mph.

The first example of just 41 Alfa 8C Competizione supercars destined for the UK, arrived here last week.

The ultra-rare £138,500 hand-built Italian sportscar was collected by award-winning Manchester-based architect, Ian Simpson, from Alfa’s largest and longest established dealership, Mangoletsi, in Knutsford, Cheshire.

Visually arresting from every angle, the Alfa 8C Competizione looks every inch a supercar, with performance credentials to match. Under the bonnet a responsive 4.7litre V8 engine produces an awesome 450bhp. Channelled through a sophisticated 6-speed F1-style paddle shift gearbox to the rear wheels, the Alfa 8C Competizione produces enough power to launch its occupants from 0-62mph in just 4.2 seconds, and on to a top speed of 181mph.

Ian Simpson, who registered his interest in the Italian thoroughbred when the vehicle was first unveiled as a concept at the Geneva Motor Show in 2003, commented: “This car is truly worth the wait. It’s everything a supercar should be. It’s unmistakably beautiful, it has a distinct engine note and the high performance credentials place it firmly alongside the most exotic cars on the planet. I am delighted and proud to be the first customer in the country to experience this incredible car.”

With the Mi.To, Alfa Romeo wishes to offer a new generation of Alfa aficionados the most compact sports car ever.

An up-to-date and innovative car, a name redolent of history. The name Mi.To has great evocative resonance for Alfa Romeo, since it was chosen as a sign of a deep-seated link between the past and future of the brand: between Milan, the city of design that brought the car’s style into being, and Turin, which will be responsible for its industrial production. A decision that highlights the brand’s strong desire to consolidate its Milanese roots.

The Mi.To is the first car to be built since the 8C Competizione, Alfa Romeo’s icon of style and technology, from which it borrows certain characteristic traits: the particular shape of the unframed side windows, the three-lobed motif that distinguishes the front bumper, the shape of the headlights and the LED tail lights. The headlights and tail lights represent a distinctive personalised feature: a frame featuring different forms of material processing and colors to create an ultra-stylish eye-liner effect that underscores the car’s style and aggression.

The highly personal dashboard and seats ensure that the interior represents the ultimate expression of Italian style, welcoming yet sporty, with top-quality materials and the closest attention to detail.

The greatest thought has also gone into defining the dimensions, which add up to a compact and dynamic shape: the Mi.To is 4.06 meters long, 1.44 meters high and 1.72 meters wide.

Style, design, and more: performance and technology must always be top-of-the-range in an Alfa Romeo. As all the brand’s models, the Mi.To is able to appeal to the most demanding customers with its exciting driveability, determined partly to the Alfa DNA system. This control acts on the engine, brakes, steering, suspension and gearbox, allowing three different vehicle behaviour modes based on the driving style best suited to the situation or the customer’s wishes: supersporting (Dynamic), town driving (Normal), maximum safety even in difficult grip conditions (All-Weather). Mi.To is the first car in its segment to offer such innovative technological content.

Great performances are guaranteed by a range of 4 engines, all Turbo (petrol and diesel), that currently range from 90 hp up to 155 hp, with the range due to be extended by even higher power ratings.

Performance and handling have been developed and optimised to offer maximum driving satisfaction in complete safety. The Mi.To offers true Alfa Romeo sporting ride, featuring contractive suspensions – standard on all specifications and engines – that considerably reduce roll and maximum active, passive and preventive safety: VDC stability system as standard and a vehicle structure that is already designed to obtain the top EuroNCAP rating in the future.

The Alfa Mi.To will be introduced to the international press during June and will then be gradually introduced from July in all the major markets.

With the Mi.To, Alfa Romeo wishes to offer a new generation of Alfa aficionados the most compact sports car ever.

An up-to-date and innovative car, a name redolent of history. The name Mi.To has great evocative resonance for Alfa Romeo, since it was chosen as a sign of a deep-seated link between the past and future of the brand: between Milan, the city of design that brought the car’s style into being, and Turin, which will be responsible for its industrial production. A decision that highlights the brand’s strong desire to consolidate its Milanese roots.

The Mi.To is the first car to be built since the 8C Competizione, Alfa Romeo’s icon of style and technology, from which it borrows certain characteristic traits: the particular shape of the unframed side windows, the three-lobed motif that distinguishes the front bumper, the shape of the headlights and the LED tail lights. The headlights and tail lights represent a distinctive personalised feature: a frame featuring different forms of material processing and colors to create an ultra-stylish eye-liner effect that underscores the car’s style and aggression.

The highly personal dashboard and seats ensure that the interior represents the ultimate expression of Italian style, welcoming yet sporty, with top-quality materials and the closest attention to detail.

The greatest thought has also gone into defining the dimensions, which add up to a compact and dynamic shape: the Mi.To is 4.06 meters long, 1.44 meters high and 1.72 meters wide.

Style, design, and more: performance and technology must always be top-of-the-range in an Alfa Romeo. As all the brand’s models, the Mi.To is able to appeal to the most demanding customers with its exciting driveability, determined partly to the Alfa DNA system. This control acts on the engine, brakes, steering, suspension and gearbox, allowing three different vehicle behaviour modes based on the driving style best suited to the situation or the customer’s wishes: supersporting (Dynamic), town driving (Normal), maximum safety even in difficult grip conditions (All-Weather). Mi.To is the first car in its segment to offer such innovative technological content.

Great performances are guaranteed by a range of 4 engines, all Turbo (petrol and diesel), that currently range from 90 hp up to 155 hp, with the range due to be extended by even higher power ratings.

Performance and handling have been developed and optimised to offer maximum driving satisfaction in complete safety. The Mi.To offers true Alfa Romeo sporting ride, featuring contractive suspensions – standard on all specifications and engines – that considerably reduce roll and maximum active, passive and preventive safety: VDC stability system as standard and a vehicle structure that is already designed to obtain the top EuroNCAP rating in the future.

The Alfa Mi.To will be introduced to the international press during June and will then be gradually introduced from July in all the major markets.

The new Alfa Spider and Alfa Brera models offer the public a greater optimized range and significant interior improvements in the fields of comfort and on-board well-being. To render the cars even more beautiful, some new aesthetic touches have been introduced, such as the new chassis color Ice White and a 18” spoked wheel with a sporty dark finish.

The greatest change though is in the driving compartments which are even more welcoming and sophisticated, thanks to the use of high-quality materials and innovative solutions. For example, the black interior (from roof to carpet) confers a strong sporty feel to the vehicle. A feel strengthened by the introduction of new front seats (introduced to the 2008 Alfa Romeo Brera also) in a “sporty” arrangement which offer a more ergonomic holding for increased driving pleasure and comfort. Among other things, the electronic seats have a new button which simplifies the back adjustment. To further improve on-board comfort, at the centre of the dashboard we find the integrated satellite navigation system, and all the commands for dual-zone climate control. Carried out in a refined design, from today the displays have a more immediate and intuitive graphical interface, as well as a new arrangement of dials for climate control.

Changes have also been made to the painting on the dash, control panel and sporty steering-wheel, so conferring a plucky look to the entire body. This does not detract in any way from the special elegance that has always distinguished these two vehicles. The inserts in the dashboard and door panel, as well as the handle and opening lever are in a new metallic paint. At the same time, the radio display, gearshift and steering-wheel are made in high-quality material such as carbon-fibre or aluminium. The interior furnishings are available in a new soft and black material with metallic glints and two types of upholstery: Pelle Frau and the prized Poltrona Frau, characterized by the unique and soft comfort, available in black, leather and red-purple. The leather upholstery on the seats can be matched to the dashboard and panels, which are lined in Frau leather with sporty stitchings in tune with the seats. The interior shows off sporty pedals lined in aluminium, externally the rear logo si fitted with a “push” system for an immediate and easy opening of the trunk. The rear and front brake calipers are in red aluminium.

Lastly, the optimization of the 2008 range foresees a unique rich set of arrangements. These include: VDC, 7 airbags, dual-zone climate control, radio commands on the driving-wheel, cruise control and 17” alloy wheels. The range of optionals on offer is also broad: xenon headlights, 18” or 19” alloy wheels, infomobility services with commands on the steering wheel, Hi-Fi Bose®sound system, Blue&Me, Blue&Me Nav, CD-changer and a sensor to alert insufficient tyre pressure.

Further changes in the 2008 range, is the optimization of the model structure, for the improvement of comfort and dynamism. For example, in comparison to previous models the alloy wheels have been lightened via optimization of the properties of aluminium alloy. For larger dimensions, “flow-forming” technology has been used. The front suspension brackets has been made in aluminium. In the same manner, the stabilizing bar is of the tubular kind, whilst the front-brake calipers (on the 4-cylinder models) are in mono-block aluminium. All these design changes have reduced the total weight of the vehicle by several kilos.

The heart and real strength of every Alfa model is the engine. Beneath the beautiful design and feisty personality, both the Alfa Brera and Alfa Spider are fitted with advanced and excellent motors of outstanding performance: the two “petrol” JTS (2.2 with 185 Cv and 3.2 V6 with 260 CV) direct injection engines are both mated to an automatic 6-speed gearshift. Also on offer, the automatic Q-Tronic shift which is exclusive to the 3,2 litre, whilst the self-shifting Selespeed is available for the 2,2 litre models. In addition, the two Alfa Romeo models offer a 2.4 JTDM 20v, the plucky Multijet turbodiesel with two power ranges: 210 CV (mated to an automatic 6-speed gearshift) and 200 CV (offered with Q-Tronic).

As well as the “Alfa Romeo temperament” provided by the engines, the two new cars guarantee excellent dynamic performances, thanks to the high wishbone front suspensions and Multilink in the rear. The 2008 Alfa Romeo Brera and 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider offer the chance to have the 3.2 litre version, with only front traction, allowing a top speed of 250 km/h.

In terms of safety, the 2008 Alfa Romeo Brera and 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider have many innovative electronic instruments for dynamic control of the car’s behaviour (from braking to traction). They are implemented to raise yet further the dynamic limits, hence not intrusively for the driver, but all to the advantage of safety. The use of these gadgets has been studied with aim of improving as much as possible driving pleasure. It’s in this arena that the brand new “Electronic Q2” system is fitted to the entire range of the Brera MY 08 and Spider MY 08 models.

Both the new Alfa Romeo models become true reference points in their sector. Thanks primarily to the numerous renewals which have been listed up to now, as well as the different features which distinguish the two vehicles. The new 2008 Alfa Romeo Brera is a coupè of great prestige, that arouses strong emotions, guaranteeing the greatest driving pleasure, drawing inspiration from the brand name’s historical legacy in this field. One has only to remember the 1900 SS, Giulietta Sprint, Alfetta and the Giulia Sprint GT.

However, within the Alfa Romeo tradition, the Spider has always been in high-relief, representing the “free and exciting” expression of cars. It’s in this spirit that the Alfa Spider MY 2008 renews itself, as the natural evolution of Spider’s developed by Alfa Romeo in it’s long history. A confirmation of the Spider’s “essential and simple” character, united to the technological superiority that distinguishes the “new Alfa generation”.

The Alfa GT model offers an original style, rich in exciting features and performances. It represents an innovative conception of sporty style, into which comfort and elegance also converge. The best example of this stylistic equilibrium is the model on display in the Geneva showroom: the Special “Blackline III” range, fitted with the powerful 1.9 JTDM with 170 CV and the front self-locking Torsen® (called Q2) system.

The greatest change in this new Alfa GT model is the adoption of a 1.9 JTDM propulsion, which supplies a maximum power of 170 CV (125 kW) at 3.750 rpm and a maximum torque coupling of 330 Nm (33,6 Kgm) at 2.000 rpm, which allows a top speed of 100 km/h in 8,2 seconds.
A powerful and progressive engine, which will be available as of next June, and can also be fitted with a anti-particulate filter (DPF). It’s worth noting, that placed on the tunnel is a Sport button, with which you can vary the mapping of the accelerator pedal. You can chose between a more touristy mapping or a sportier one: the latter improves the car’s response and renders the drive more exciting.

So much power, therefore, is confirmed by the external design which stands out due to the compact aggressive styling. The car is embellished with aesthetic touches like the 18” alloy wheels, the double chromed exhaust, and the satined effect for mirrors, grills and whiskers. Even in the interior the Alfa GT Serie Speciale “Blackline III” reveals a sporty charisma, as shown by the sporty pedals in aluminium and the serigraphed kick-panel. Furthermore, the black tones characterize the black leather seats with a central perforated insert and Alfa Romeo logo on the headrest, as well as the steering wheel and display panel in leather.

In addition, the model on display is differentiated by the front self-locking Torsen® (called Q2 system, which has all the merits of front-wheel traction, such as heightening the driving ease and pleasure and guaranteeing the advantages typical of an integrated traction. In detail, the system is mated to JTDM with 170 CV, so benefiting of the excellent weight/power ratio, thanks to the use of Common Rail technology. The benefit is also due to the predominant role that diesel motorizations have taken on in the field of sport engines. The “Q2” system combines perfectly the torque specifications and power of the 1.9 JTDM increasing yet further the already excellent performance levels of a vehicle with a normal differential. This is how it works. The “Q2” system is based on a limited slip differential, the mechanical Torsen type. In particular, this differential has the job of permanently distributing torque between the front wheels in a dynamic manner, depending on the driving conditions and road surface. Mated to the exclusive front wishbone suspension, the system allow a particularly efficient tuning of the vehicle.

Debuting at Geneva showroom is the captivating Alfa 8C Spider. Like the Alfa 8C Competizione, the Gran Turismo which received resounding global praise; the new “discovery” will be produced in a limited edition run of 500.

Elaborated by the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo, the new car re-affirms the brand’s excellence in this sector, as shown by some Spider’s being regarded among the most beautiful cars in global automotive history. Cars such as the Giulietta Spider from the 50′s or the legendary Duetto made famous by “The Graduate” from 1967 with a young Dustin Hoffman. Today, it’s the Alfa 8C Spider’s turn to take centre stage and project into the future the values of technology and emotion which belong to the Alfa Romeo legacy.

Obviously, the new vehicle inherits all the winning features of the Coupè version. Starting with the two “sport seats” setup and the fascinating exterior lines, which characterized by sculpted and finely designed bodywork, “dress” the automotive and mechanical excellence of the model.

In detail, the marked dynamics of the vehicle are highlighted by the horizontal groove “built” into the bonnet at wheel level. The oversize wheels and powerful “muscles” of the rear mudguard accentuate the personality and force of the model, without diminishing the elegance of those fluid lines. Instead they highlight the formal beauty of the singular external features: the “teardrop” fog lights set like a precious jewel in the front mudguard, the front Led lights, a synthesis of technology and rationality, and the essential door handle.

Furthermore, in the front we can find the characteristic Alfa Romeo stylings, with a new interpretaion of the “whiskers” and shield. Without forgetting, that this innovative range anticipates the elements and proportions of the future Alfa Romeo cars, always with complete respect for the historical legacy of the brand.

It’s worth underlining that to reach these top levels of areo-dynamic efficiency, solutions which don’t limit themselves to the design of the form have been adopted on the Alfa 8C Spider. All the surfaces and profiles of the uprights and windows, together with the form and positioning of the rear-view mirrors, have been optimized using computer models and tests in wind tunnels and real-life environments. As a result, air flows round the vehicle following it’s natural path, unhampered by corners and irregularities. The end result is a negative LC (lift coefficient) which like competition vehicles, contributes to stability at high speeds. But the peculiarity of this vehicle, is the hooded top fitted with electro-hydraulic automatic control (controllable via a button on the dashboard). The hooded top of the Alfa 8C Spider is composed of two overlapping sheets: the external one is made with a multi-thread textile which can withstand the elements, whilst the interior has high sound-proofing qualities. Furthermore, the hooded roof-top, available in various colours, has been perfected aesthetically, aerodynamically and for acoustic comfort. It has also been perfected from a functional point of view, with specially developed film-reels to render more agile, rapid and secure any explanations of the functioning.

In the interior, the Alfa 8C Spider guarantees a sophisticated environment, thanks to the vast use of composite materials in the dashboard and internal panels, as well as the use of anatomical seats, produced in carbon fibres, that can be adjusted according to the physical characteristics of the driver (up to now, a feature only available to racing cars). Furthermore, for maximum possible personalization of the interior, the client can chose between different environments and aesthetic solutions. All distinguishable by the particular attention to detail and artisan workmanship: from the contrasting stitches, colour tone and exclusive matchings. The bucket seats are upholstered in Frau flower leather (an exclusive and innovative treatment of the weave, in which the leather is bound to a natural fibre, creating a look of great visual impact).

In analogous fashion to the interior, the same care has been taken in realizing the exteriors: from the alloy wheels to the brake calipers, every detail can be chosen to your particular design, because every Alfa 8C Spider can only look similar to itself. An unmistakable car made to measure for the owner’s personality. The unique and un-repeatable Alfa 8C Spider announces the pleasure of a sporty drive with full respect for the brand’s legacy.

Like in the best Alfa Romeo tradition, hidden under this pretty “dress” is the best of what’s available in the field of mechanics and propulsions. Firstly, the Alfa 8C Spider has a rigid and light structure (the compact frame is made in steel for maximum torsion to guarantee a drive which is always precise and sure, whilst the body is in carbon fibre). We are dealing with a choice motivated by the need to reduce as much as possible the weight but also to optimize the centre of gravity for agility and drive-ability in the more demanding journeys.

Still under the banner of sophisticated technology, the Alfa 8C Spider adopts the new “8 cylinder mated to a 5-speed gearbox with 90°” and a capacity of 4691 cm3 which has been designed with one specific aim: guarantee extraordinary performances without relinquishing the fluidity of the gearshift or the ease of use in any driving context. Like so, a powerful and progressive propulsion is born with a top power of 450 CV at 7.000 rpm and a maximum torque of 7.500 rpm. This engine has been mated to a self-shifting 6-speed gearshift (with computerized selection of the gears via levers behind the steering-wheel), and a self-blocking differential unit.

As in the legendary Formula 1 vehicles from the 50′s, the Alfa 8C Spider sports the Transaxle design which guarantees the best equilibrium in the partioning of weight. The propulsion is placed in the rear whilst the gearshift is placed behind along the differential and hydraulic motor unit. The Transaxle design foresees a tight connection between motor and gearshift, which is fitted with a self-blocking differential. The two groups are linked by a tubular element, at the interior of which rotates the transmission driving shaft: in this manner the load is distributed in an optimal manner between the front and rear suspension.

So much power can only be entrusted to an excellent braking system: the Alfa 8C Spider is fitted with carbo-ceramic Brembo (CCM), 380 mm in diameter on the front-wheels and 360 mm on the back-wheels. This solution guarantees a powerful brake action even in the most intense uses. The marked reduction in weight, in comparison to a traditional set-up, reduces the masses unsupported by the vehicle and so improves the dynamic performance and driving comfort. Furthermore, the mono-block calipers guarantee maximum rigidity and minimal deformation, given the high loads generated by the pressure of the pistons on the brake-linings.

Therefore, the Alfa 8C Spider “declares itself Alfa” all the way, confirming control and driving pleasure with no compromises. Since always, gear comfort and dynamic performance are qualities specific to Alfa Romeo cars: in this case they have become veritable strong points. Thanks to for example, the suspensions which foresee a high wishbone suspension with brackets and uprights in forged aluminium, that act as a supplementary strut for alignment control.

Contributing also to the brilliant road control are specially developed 20” tyres to insure excellent performance, the tyres have a: 245/35 front-suspension and a rear-suspension of 285/35. Fitted on perforated rims in fluid moulded aluminium to ensure lightness and maximum brake ventilation efficiency. Lastly, the Alfa 8C Spider uses an evolved VDC Alfa Romeo traction and stability system, which ensures the driver feels at one with his car.

Autodelta has a long and proud tradition for creating cars that are individually hand crafted to the customers’ unique tastes and requirements.

Each car is wrought to the owner’s specifications, from the maximum dynamic and performance capability to the exterior and interior finish. The Autodelta experience involves realising the customer’s deepest dream – and then exceeding it.

In the last few years all the leading auto manufacturers have made customisation a priority, offering reams of options in every area of trim and finish; however for Autodelta, this is a long-standing tradition, firmly at the core of our philosophy.

One such customer recently approached us recently to create the perfect Alfa Spider, his love and appreciation for the last generation model (Type 916) leading him to seek a special, individual version, with maximum performance capability and truly unique styling. The car of his dreams would combine the thrills of wind-in-the-hair motoring with flair and style.

The brief was to enhance the performance in every area, and to create new styling, unique from anything else we had done before, subtle yet distinct, and of course embedded with Alfa Romeo and Autodelta DNA.

Cutting Edge Engineering
Under the surface the changes were inspired by our bespoke V6 Spider version, with the fitting of the current generation Rotrex supercharger conversion, which raises power from 240 to 341 bhp. Engine changes included upgrading of the fuel injectors, engine mapping and a new free-flow stainless steel exhaust system, which was developed in conjunction with Ragazzon and finishes in distinct quad tailpipes. Autodelta’s bespoke Limited Slip Differential was fitted to allow the additional power to be smoothly and effectively transferred to the wheels.

Height adjustable coilovers from the Autodelta Sportline range were fitted to further cope with the major power increase, while bigger brakes (330 mm ventilated front discs) and larger 4-pot Brembo calipers stop the car effectively. Two more of our technical partners were involved in the project: the car rides on OZ Ultralight Botticelli wheels fitted with Dunlop Sport SP Maxx tyres, which have been developed for Autodelta.

Unique Styling
The styling for this particular Spider required a very personal touch. The car’s owner desired a very extreme look, which called for an individual custom styling project. “We thrive on creating a car this extravagant,” comments Jano Djelalian. The project perfectly demonstrates Autodelta’s ability to custom-build a car, tailor-designed to meet a single owner’s own, highly individual, requirements.

Autodelta’s styling team applied their talent on every conceivable area of the car. The front, side and rear received design changes, including the fitment of a high-quality Autodelta Detachable Hardtop.

This particular project was inspired by historical show-stopping prototypes such as the open-top Pininfarina Super Flow of 1956 (pre-study to the legendary ‘Duetto’ Spider model) and the Alfa Romeo Nuvola concept car of 1996. The form-language of the completely bespoke rear bumper and splitter, including the styling of rounded tail-lights, is an area which mostly ties in with the Nuvola. The rear splitter design also traces other extravagant models in Alfa Romeo’s illustrious open-top history, including the sinuous 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GS “Flying Star” by Carrozzeria Touring.

In a tribute to the ground breaking Pininfarina Super Flow, and the huge impact it had on Alfa Romeo’s style thinking in the following decades, we have christened this unique one-off car the “Autodelta Spider Superflow”; with the ‘Super’ part of the name also being reminiscent of the traditional denotation for Autodelta’s supercharged cars.

The front of the Spider introduces a new splitter which enhances the form of the Alfa Romeo grille. An inverted “V” section in the centre adds to the dynamic thrust of the styling direction, providing an extra focal point at the base of the Alfa shield. This solution enhances the feeling of speed. Intake sections on either side of the V-form have been incorporated in the traditional Alfa Romeo style with a centre-section intelligently forming the aerodynamic spoiler.

New flank sections behind the front wheelarches include specially designed air vents providing a more technical appeal to this section of the Spider’s styling.

The completely bespoke rear bumper also features dual circular lighting clusters with LED technology. These are the same units fitted to the awesome Maserati MC12 racing car. Additional units for the reverse and fog lights are positioned centrally in the lower section of the bumper in-between the quad exhaust outlets. The exhaust outlets themselves are housed within the bumper for an optimum finish.

In order to enhance the Spider’s rear stance, the number plate surround has also been significantly stretched over the entire width. A separate splitter underneath the bumper provides an interesting aerodynamic solution and further continues the outline of the number plate surround.

A ducktail rear spoiler adds to the sportive feel of the rear styling.

New side mouldings have been developed and present a rising crease which is matched at the rear bumper. Autodelta’s Styling Centre provided much attention towards how the individual styling components cosmetically interact with each other, ensuring a logical cohesive design.

The Spider is also presented with Autodelta’s well-known Detachable Hardtop, which was developed specifically as a factory-quality accessory for the 916 Spider model. The Hardtop uses a state-of-the-art sandwich construction for maximum safety and strength, yet the Hardtop is light enough to handle with ease. The Hardtop also provides the following benefits to all-season Spider owners: Highly-effective thermal and noise insulation; improved chassis rigidity: less scuttle shake; protects fabric hood from harsh weather; tinted heated rear window for better visibility; optional protective cover stand for storage; optional buggy & stand; and colour-coded for perfect match and finish .

Made by Autodelta Styling Centre, the Spider Detachable Hardtop is produced to the most exacting tolerances using a variety of materials. The Hardtop uses high-quality components such as toughened tinted safety glass, hardware and Alfa Romeo original equipment rubber seals. The Hardtop is also colour-coded to match the vehicle colour.