Alfa Romeo has an interesting reputation. They are noted for making some of the most beautiful and passionate cars in the world but they also are remembered, more recently in the U.S., for being utterly unreliable. Yet that passion and design win out over any quality complaints in the heads of most enthusiasts. It was, however, that reputation of poor quality that lead to dismal sales and a withdrawal from the U.S. market in 1995. Now with Fiat (Alfa's parent company) as a part owner of Chrysler, we should see a full return to the U.S. market sometime in the near future. In reality though, they have already made their return with the spectacular 8C Competizione.
First displayed at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show as a concept car, the 8C was designed as a tribute to the great Alfas of the past. The response to the car was positive and it went into production in 2007. Power is delivered from a 4.7L V8 designed by Ferrari and Masreati. Output is rated at 450HP/354TQ and it is routed through a sequential 6 speed rear mounted transaxle. With a relatively lightweight (3490lbs) carbon fiber body, the 8C can hit 60 mph in around 4.0 seconds and reach a top speed of over 190 mph.
The total production run of 8C coupes was limited to just 500 cars which was completed by the end of 2008. Only 84 examples were sold in the United States.
In 2005 Alfa showed a convertible variant of the 8C at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Production of the car was given the green light in 2007 and began this year. Again, the total production will be only 500 cars. The Spider features the same drivetrain as the coupe and is able to reach a slightly lower top speed of around 180 mph. The convertible top is electronically operated and uses fabric construction instead of a new trendy folding hardtop.
The Alfa Romeo 8C Coupe and Spider absolutely meet the dream car criteria. Stunning looks, amazing performance, and extreme rarity all guarantee it will be a collector classic.
