Automobiles Review

Tag: Alfa Romeo

  • Alfa Romeo 4C To Debut In Geneva

    Alfa-Romeo-4C-THUMBAlfa Romeo 4C will make an official debut at this year’s Geneva Motor Show showing-off its assets and positive qualitative. It is a mid-engined rear-wheel drive coupé with two bucket seats which means that it truly represents a sports car.

    Of course, it will deliver to the lucky customers great performance in Italian style and technical excellence. Alfa Romeo 4C was initially introduced as a concept back in 2011 in Geneva

    As a matter of fact, the “4C” acronym draws its inspiration from the brand’s glorious past: it refers to Alfa Romeo’s great sporting tradition: the acronyms 8C and 6C in the 1930s and 1940s distinguished cars – both racing and road – fitted with the powerful “eight cylinders” and the innovative “six cylinders”.

    In the current Alfa Romeo 4C are utilized technologies and materials derived from super sports cars: carbon fibre, aluminium, rear-wheel drive, as well as updated technologies from the latest standard models from Alfa Romeo.

    The new 1750 Turbo Petrol all-aluminium engine with direct injection, the sophisticated Alfa TCT twin dry clutch transmission and the Alfa DNA selector with the unprecedented Race mode are pure instance for this.

    In terms of design, the 4C follows the concept model and exudes compact size, dynamism and agility. On the other hand the interior is full of essential materials contributing for maximum driving satisfaction. What immediately stands out is the carbon fibre used to make the central cell.

    Due to its compact dimensions, the 4C has 2 bucket seats. In details, the model is just under 4 metres long, 200 cm wide, 118 cm high and has a wheelbase of less than 2.4 metres. But not only the dimensions emphasise the compact size of the car but also accentuate its agility.

    Furthermore, the car is equipped with four cylinder 1750 Turbo Petrol engine. The latter includes an innovative aluminium block and specific intake and exhaust systems which have been enhanced in order to improve the sports appeal of the car.

    Additionally, the unit includes cutting-edge technical solutions including direct fuel injection, dual continuous variable valve timing, a turbocharger and a revolutionary scavenging control system.

    The engine is mated to an Alfa TCT automatic twin dry clutch transmission, which is a genuine benchmark in its segment due to its low weight and extreme speed of activation. The gears can also be changed in sequential mode with the help of the shift paddles located behind the steering wheel.

    What’s more, an innovation introduced here is the new Alfa DNA selector which not only includes three standard settings- Dynamic, Natural and All Weather – but also a fourth one: Race, which enhances the driving experience.

    Alfa Romeo 4C
    Alfa Romeo 4C
    Alfa Romeo 4C

    Source: Alfa Romeo

  • 2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition

    Alfa Romeo has introduced the MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition at the Paris Motor Show. Currently only 28 examples are destined for UK.

    To mark the occasion, Alfa Romeo coordinated a thrilling, world first driving dare involving precision driver Paul Swift and British Superbike rider Chris ‘The Stalker’ Walker. Four wheels met two at Silverstone circuit in a challenging manoeuvre with Chris on a Kawasaki ZX-10R Ninja British Superbike ‘undertaking’ Paul in the Alfa MiTo SBK with the car up on two wheels. As Paul took the Alfa MiTo SBK around the sweeping Brooklands corner, Chris throttled in on the inside line, building up enough speed to get the bike over and, for a brief moment, go under the chassis of the Alfa MiTo SBK before speeding out the other side to safety.

    The MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition comes with a two-tone exterior with 18” alloy wheels. It also features Brembo brakes and an Alfa Active Suspension with adjustable shock absorbers.

    The interior has minor changes – Sabelt seats, Alcantara upholstery and an individually-numbered plaque.

    Among the extras, you will find aluminum pedals, dual-zone climate control and the Blue&Me connectivity system.

    The small car is powered by a 1.4 liter Multi-Air petrol with 170HP (125 kW). 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds and an average fuel consumption of just 4.8 litres / 100 km.

    Only 28 MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Editions will be offered in the United Kingdom. The pricing start from £21,595.

    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition
    2013 Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde SBK Limited Edition

    Source: Alfa Romeo

  • Petrolicious: Targa California [VIDEO]

    Petrolicios-THUMBDo you remember that last week a new exciting project named Petrolicious just popped up? The web platform aims to bring the attention on high quality content for vintage cars. The people working behind it promised that they are going to publish a new video every week.

    We have to wait no longer, because the second footage, called “Targa California” is out. And if you are huge fan of vintage car, then you should probably know that the Targa California is a non-competitive rally event in its fourth running.

    It includes classic vehicles prior to 1973 which rally through some of central California’s most beautiful places. In fact it is homage to the original Targa Florio race in Sicily. So here was where the Petrolicious crew stepped in and recorded this three-day event.

    Driving in the middle of a pack of Porsche 356’s, Alfa Romeos, BMW 2002’s and other beauties in windy mountain roads is what you are up to see in this exciting video.

    httpv://vimeo.com/50545152

    Video Source: Vimeo

    Source: Petrolicious

  • The Future of Fun-Cars, Oddly Shaped Coupes?

    The fun-cars have gone a long way. The swinging 60s created a demand for highly impractical yet beautiful cars. It was mainly Europe that latched onto the new fashion and the car acquired a whole-new purpose. Manufacturers like Fiat, MG and many others started concentrating on small cool two-seaters and coupes and the party lasted till the early 1970s when the fuel crisis put a new emphasis on the industry and the cars had to become practical (and boring) once again.

    The times have changed, so has the technology. You no longer have to build a fuel-inefficient car for it to be fun to drive. As the modern car designers become braver and braver, we see a positive tendency in the automotive market with the concept of fun-cars resurrected. Small and quirky cars are the new craze – they seem to be getting a lot of love right now from everyone, both customers and motoring journalists.

    The new generation of fun-cars is very distinctive. They are mostly small 3-door hatchbacks that may appear oddly-shaped to some, but very stylish to others. They are fun to drive because sporty features are often incorporated. They usually have a bold sporty look, excellent aerodynamics, sporty color and sporty wheels. Even with their small size, fun-cars can be roomy enough to fit in four adults comfortably.

    To create fun in driving, they are often fitted with small but nippy 1.4 litre to 1.6 litre petrol engines depending on the model and variant. They are available in both 5 or 6-speed manual transmission or automatic transmission. There are many brands playing in the newly-born category but several vehicles stand out: the Hyundai Veloster, Nissan Juke, Alfa Romeo Mito, VW Beetle and the Mini One.

    A car to watch is the Hyundai Veloster. It has aggressive contour lines and an excellent interior. Beneath the bonnet is a 138 horsepower, 1.6 litre GDI Double Overhead Cam 4-cylinder engine equipped with the latest Dual Continuous Variable Valve Timing (D-VVTi) technology. It is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Performance on the road is stellar; you can even get 40 miles to a gallon. When driving, it gives out a smooth, power-efficient force when you accelerate. Thanks to the ever increasing quality and low prices, Hyundai is one of the first choices for people looking for car finance.

    Hyundai Veloster

    The Alfa Romeo Mito is another cool little vehicle worth a look. It is a small car fitted with a patented Multiair 78 horsepower, 1.4 litre entry level petrol engine. Available in Italian racing colors (red, yellow and green), the Mito is quick and fast even with the entry level engine. However, if you want it to be a little quicker off the mark, you can get the 1.6 litre Distinctive S/S 3-door model. Driving and handling is good but the passenger leg room may not be comfortable for taller passengers.

    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir

    Now, the VW Beetle of course is a legend. The design is classic and iconic, not to mention that it is equipped with the latest safety features. Although the VW is basically a 2-door car, it is included in the fun-car category because it is really fun to drive. The turbo-charged engine can accelerate fast enough but the fuel economy is not that good compared with the Alfa Romeo Mito. Now with the new model recently launched, the previous generation has slightly depreciated. At Creditplus car finance specialists we notice an increased demand for the previous model Beetle. We are sure you will agree when we say that this is probably one of the most fun cars you can purchase on today’s market; especially if you opt for the original Beetle.

    2012 Volkswagen Beetle

    Out of all the options, the Nissan Juke stands out as a very original and quirky car. It’s the styling that makes it so desirable. What is it really? A coupe or a 4×4? In fact, it’s classified as a crossover, which means it’s a hybrid of a utility vehicle and a sporty coupe. Although the engine size of 1.6 litres don’t suggest it’s particularly quick, the small Nissan is a very dynamic car. The 1.6 Dig-T version is the one to go for if you’re looking for good times behind the wheel.

    Nissan Juke

    Lastly, we have the Mini One – its predecessor experienced the previous reign of the fun-cars. It is a 3-door hatchback with entry level variants as well as a sport variant. The entry level version look almost as good as the sporty One. The difference is in the engine configuration. The entry level comes in a smaller engine while the sports variant comes in 1.6 Liter 4-cylinder DOHC engine. All in all the car looks great and drives very well – that’s why it remains one of the favourite.

    Mini One

    These were the most popular models, however, other manufacturers like Fiat, Citroen and Renault are quickly catching up.

  • Alfa Romeo MiTo SBK Limited Edition at the Paris Motor Show

    Alfa Romeo will exhibit the new MiTo SBK special edition at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The manufacturer will also present MiTo Superbike Special Series. They both celebrate the most prestigious and hardest fought championship, Superbike, the motorcycling event that Alfa Romeo has participated in since 2007. More than all the rest, Alfa Romeo is the brand able to convey the spirit experienced inside the tracks.
    The new MiTo SBK Limited Edition sets itself apart with a few new elements that emphasize its impression of a car with a “vice-like grip on the ground”: from its side skirts to its rear dam, in addition to its 18″ titanium alloy rims from beyond which the red of the Brembo brake calipers is evident.

    Offered with the sporty aluminium pedal unit, Cruise Control, dual zone climate control system and Blue&Me system, the powerful MiTo SBK Limited Edition can “wear” two body colours (black and Alfa red) that can be matched with three roof shades: black, Alfa red and the new Cristallo white. The same sporty imprint has been given to the interior, enhanced by the Sabelt seats with a wraparound carbon fibre backrest made with the innovative RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding) technology that teams great mechanical resistance with smaller dimensions and lightness. The central Alcantara® fabric is distinguished by the Alfa Romeo logo, reproduced in an absolutely original way. It is all embellished with new red stitching that exalts the craftsmanship of the product on the leather trim of the gear lever knob and steering wheel, the latter complete with radio controls. Lastly, the central panel of the dashboard is made truly unique by the SBK Limited Edition plate with progressive numbering from 1 to 200.

    The special edition MiTo is powered by a 1.4 liter MultiAir turbocharged engine with 170HP (125 kW). 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds, 4.8 litres per 100 km (49 mpg US).

    Alfa Romeo MiTo SBK Limited Edition
    Alfa Romeo MiTo SBK Limited Edition
    Alfa Romeo MiTo SBK Limited Edition
    Alfa Romeo MiTo SBK Limited Edition
    Alfa Romeo MiTo SBK Limited Edition
    Alfa Romeo MiTo SBK Limited Edition

    Source: Fiat

  • Alfa Mito and Giulietta with new Sportiva Trim

    Alfa Mito Sportiva - Rear ViewA new sporty trim level has just been added to Alfa Romeo’s MiTo and Giulietta ranges. The new trim has been named Sportiva and is released with the aim to deliver customers a car with luxurious sporty looks allied to fuel efficiency and low emissions.

    Firstly, Alfa MiTo Sportiva includes the range of technology-packed features of the Distinctive trim. In addition it includes exclusive 18” Quadrifoglio Verde sports alloy wheels, sports kick plates, and Sportiva badges.

    The interior of the MiTo Sportiva is in black and green theme with darkened interior headlining, and matte black steering wheel inserts accompanying a black leather steering wheel and handbrake, plus black Alcantara® sport seat upholstery. All is complemented by green stitching.

    Alfa Mito Giulietta Sportiva - Side

    Secondly, the Alfa Giulietta Sportiva builds on the Veloce trim level by adding oversized red Brembo™ brake callipers mounted inside 18” spoke design alloy wheels with a dark titanium finish.

    The practicality and style of this version are now improved by the new sports leather upholstery, the rear armrest with storage compartment and sport kick plates.

    The Alfa MiTo Sportiva is available with three engine options: 875cc TB TwinAir 85 hp (63 kW), 1.4 TB MultiAir 135 hp (100 kW) and the 1.6 JTDM-2 120 hp (88 kW).

    The Alfa Giulietta Sportiva is available with a choice of six engines including the new twin dry-clutch semi-automatic ALFA TCT.

    The starting price of the Alfa MiTo Sportiva is £16 100, while the one of Alfa Giulietta Sportiva is £23110.

    Source: Alfa Romeo

  • Through the eGarage lens: Concorso Italiano 2010

    Concorso-Italiano-thumbThis year’s Concorso Italiano event is less than a month away so that explains why at eGarage want to throw us back a couple of years ago when they filmed this. The Concorso Italiano is like comic-con for gear heads, a bowl of Italian goodness, a mingle of pesto that’s been made of the finest herbs around. It all sounds very exotic, but actually it;s most commonly held in California.

    The clip we have here is a director’s cut from 2010. That explains the absence of the Ferrari FF for example or the acrobatic photographers around the Ferrari 458 Italia – still hot from the factory. Then there’s the F430 Scuderia which is equally impressive. But the Concorso is not all about Ferraries and what’s hot. There are Countaches, Alfa-Romeos, F40s and the lot. It’s not always necessary about cars as well.

    Ferrari Enzo
    Ferrari Enzo

    Be on the look out for this year’s Concorso Italiano which will be held at August the 17th at Monterey California.

    For now though, just enjoy this not-old-enough-to-be-a-classic video but definitely a worthy one.

    httpv://vimeo.com/46009568

    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 458 Italia
    Ferrari 430 Scuderia
    Ferrari 430 Scuderia
    Ferrari 430 Scuderia
    Ferrari 430 Scuderia
    Ferrari 430 Scuderia
    Ferrari 430 Scuderia
    Ferrari 430 Scuderia
    Ferrari 430 Scuderia

    Source: eGarage

    Video Source: eGarage via Vimeo

  • Alfa Romeo MiTo equipped with the award winning TwinAir engine

    Alfa-Romeo-MiTo-TwinAir-THUMBAlfa Romeo MiTo is a sorty supermini vehicle which is now available with the multi-award winning 85 hp (63 kW) TwinAir engine. The latter is an 875cc twin-cylinder turbo powerplant with electro-hydraulic valve control technology, thanks to which the Alfa Romeo has official Combined Cycle fuel economy of 67.3mpg.

    Furthermore this engine delivers CO2 output of just 98g/km. This makes the Alfa MiTo TwinAir the cleanest and most economical model in its class. Another new fact around the MiTo TwinAir range is that it will be offered in a new metallic body colour: Ametista Black with a purple hue.

    The engine is undoubtedly perfect for driving in the city; however the brand Alfa Romeo is all about sports car dynamics, which makes the car very agile. In addition to that the sporty and environmentally compatible powerplant uses MultiAir technology matched with specific fluid dynamics optimized for maximum fuel efficiency.

    The 875cc TwinAir Turbo engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox, generates a maximum of 85 hp (63 kW) at 5,500 rpm and a torque of 145Nm (107 lb-ft) at 2,000 rpm. In addition, due to the Start&Stop device and ‘intelligent’ alternator, the car has the lowest petrol CO2 emissions in its segment at just 98 g/km.

    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir

    The new Alfa MiTo TwinAir is going to be offered in two trim levels – Sprint and Distinctive. In addition to that the drivers of the new Alfa Romeo model will be enjoying a wide array of standard specification (for Sprint trim): 6-inch sports alloy wheels, cruise control, front fog lights, manual climate control, Alfa D.N.A. (driving mode selector) and Alfa’s Blue&Me™ system with Bluetooth®- hands-free connectivity and USB media system.

    The Distinctive trim level also has a lot of standard premium features: 17-inch sports alloy wheels, red painted Brembo brake calipers, rear parking sensors and chrome/aluminium detailing.

    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir is priced from £14 150.

    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir Interior
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir Interior
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir
    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir

    Pricing

    TwinAir Version BIK Rate Total OTR 0-62mph (sec) Top Speed Ins. Group Emissions CO2(g/km) Combined MPG
    875cc TB TwinAir

    85 bhp Sprint

    		 10% £14,150 12.5 108 9 98 67.3
    875cc TB TwinAir

    85 bhp Distinctive

    		 10% £15,350 12.5 108 9 98 67.3

    Trim Details

    SPRINT

    Remote central locking

    A.B.S. with EBD

    Alfa code immobiliser

    Manual climate control

    Electric front windows with ‘One-Touch’ function

    Heated rear window

    Adjustable headlight position

    Brake Assistance System

    (Emergency Braking)

    7 airbags – Driver, passenger, front side, window and driver knee airbag

    Front Airbag Deactivation on Passenger’s side

    Rear headrests

    Sprint cloth upholstery

    Car radio with audio CD & MP3 player

    Trip computer

    Fix & Go puncture repair kit

    Sensor for external temperature

    Start&Stop

    Titanium Grey headlight & rear light surrounds

    Body-coloured wing mirrors

    Anti-Intrusion sensors for electric front windows

    Rear window wiper

    Interior front lights on ceiling

    Front and rear bumpers in body colour

    		 Alarm system with safe lock

    VDC (ABS+ASR+Brake Assistant) with Hill Holder and Electronic Q2

    16″ Sports alloy wheels with 195/55 R16 tyres / (ECO)

    Vehicle’s Dynamic Control switch (D.N.A. system)

    Blue&Me™ (Bluetooth® hands-free system with voice recognition and media player with USB port and Aux-in) and steering wheel with remote controls and gear knob in leather

    Multifunctional display

    Electrically adjustable and heated wing mirrors in body colour

    Cruise control

    Car radio with audio CD and MP3 player and double aerial

    Rear Spoiler

    Front fog lights

    12V Plug

    		 DISTINCTIVE

    As Alfa MiTo Sprint plus:

    17″ Sports alloy wheels with 205/45 R17 tyres

    Front armrest with storage compartment

    Aluminium kickplates

    Chrome effect window sills

    Sports dials with white illumination

    Red painted Brembo brake callipers

    Sports rear bumper

    Lucid Chrome headlight & rear light surrounds

    Lucid Chrome wing mirrors

    Driver and passenger lumbar adjustment

    Vanity mirror on driver and

    passenger sides

    Space saver spare wheel

    Chrome exhaust tail pipe

    Rear parking sensors

    Aluminium sports pedals with footrest in metal

    Front seat rear pocket

    (passenger side only)

    Sports seats upholstery

    Technical Data

    875cc TB TwinAir 85 bhp
    No. of cylinders, arrangement 2 in line
    Bore x stroke (mm) 80.5 x 86
    Displacement (cc) 875
    Compression ratio 10.0:1
    Max. power output bhp (kW – EC) at rpm 85 (62.5) 5500
    Peak torque Nm (kgm – EC) at rpm 145 ( 14.8) 2000
    Fuel type Petrol
    Fuel Feed TwinAir turbo
    ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT (12V)
    Battery: Capacity (Ah)/Generator (A) 63/450
    TRANSMISSION
    Drive Front
    Number of gears 6 + 1R
    TYRES
    Standard version 195/55 R16
    STEERING SYSTEM
    Steering diameter kerb-to-kerb (m) 11.25
    SUSPENSION
    Front MacPherson independent, front traverse trailing arms; shock absorbers with rebound springs; anti-roll bar
    Rear Torsion beam with C cross-section and high torsional stiffness; slotted bushings with variable stiffness for attaching beam to bodyshell; high-stiffness helical springs; contractive vertical shock absorbers
    BRAKES
    Front (mm) Ventilated 257 x 22 D, 54mm floating calliper
    Rear Solid 251 x 10 D, 38 mm floating calliper
    WEIGHTS – TANK CAPACITY
    Fuel tank (lit.) 45
    Kerb weight DIN (kg) 1130
    PERFORMANCE
    Top speed (mph) 108
    Acceleration (driver + 30 kg) 0-62 (s) 12.5
    FUEL CONSUMPTION – EMISSIONS
    Urban cycle mpg (l/100km) 57.6 (4.9)
    Extra-urban cycle mpg (l/100km) 74.3 (3.8)
    Combined cycle mpg (l/100km) 67.3 (4.2)
    Exhaust emissions – CO2 (g/km) 98
    Emissions Standard Euro 5
    Start&Stop Standard

    Source: Alfa Romeo

  • Evolution of F1 [VIDEO]

    We’ve come a long way from 1950 until now. Think about it. From having no satellites orbiting the Earth whatsoever, to actually shrouding the planet with them. Color TV, mobile phones, computers, nanotechnology, medicine: everything leaped within just 62 years. The whole concept of how fast the technological evolution is is a bit hard to grasp. Now, we have stumbled upon something that gives us the automotive, high-octane point of view. It’s the evolution of the F1 car.

    It’s all there since the first season of 1950 where a 1938 Alfa Romeo 158 dominated every track it competed on despite being essentially an 8-cylinder, front engined bathtub. In the 60s, engineers took things more seriously and started experimenting with the aerodynamics and with the weight distribution (the engine was usually mid-mounted). By the 70s, the F1 cars started assuming a familiar shape. Also in the same decade the cylinder count in cars saw it’s peak when V12 engines were used. In the late 70s turbocharging made a brief appearance that would last around ten years.

    F1 Evolution Infograph
    F1 Evolution Infograph – Click On Image For Full Size

    In 1991 V12 engines were again a fact and traction control was introduced by some of the teams because the power was simply too much to handle. By the year 1994, regulations forbade the use of traction control but then in 2001 it was back in the game.

    F1 did bring innovation to common cars and we all experienced change. Active suspension, traction control, engine refinement; All serve as an example of how design and technology bring constant change in shape and function. The only invention that has held it’s ground through the years, seems to be the wheel – it is still round


    Source: Ruf Blacklock via Vimeo

  • Alfa Romeo 4C and 1933 6C at the Villa D’este

    Alfa-Romeo-4C-Concept-thumbLast weekend, the Concorso di Eleganza aesthetic competition was held at the Villa d’Este in Italy. No doubt, one can’t spell aesthetic without Alfa Romeo. The rather delicious 4C Concept won the “Design Award for Concept Cars & Prototypes”. Since at the event, the spotlight also falls on classic cars, a 1933 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GS also took home some prominent prizes.

    But first, make way for the unborn – The Alfa Romeo 4C. Conceived trough the company’s expertise that is reality within the 8C Competizione and 8C Spider. In fact, the concept shares their rear axle entirely. The main idea is to perfect a true racing spirit that bares Italian genes and technical excellence in a single form – a RWD Coupe with two seats and a mid-mounted engine. In length, the 4C is around four meters with the wheel base accounting for no more than 2.4 meters out of them.

    Underneath the shell, there’s a 1750 liter (symbolic) straight four engine that brings about 200 bhp. All the while, the curb weight doesn’t exceed more than 850 kg despite the technically advanced 6-speed dual dry clutch transmission operated by paddle shifters.

    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept
    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

    As for the C6 that was on display – a uniquely rare 1933 model which is no stranger to previous Villa d’Este exhibitions. It has a six-cylinder, in-line 1752-liter engine and pages of history left in its trails.

    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept
    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept
    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept
    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept
    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept
    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept
    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

    Source: Alfa Romeo

  • Ugur Sahin Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept [HD video]

    Ugur Sahin Design has released an interesting video, where the Alfa Romeo C12 GTS Concept has been previewed. The Dutch specialty coachworks and design company shows their bold design of the sports car.

    The main goal is to reinterpret Alfa Romeo’s historical lines, surfaces and styling cues with fresh perspective and state of mind in order to create an appealing design and combining the familiar design language of Alfa Romeo combined with sharper lines and surfaces without losing the organic attractiveness of the car.

    For now, the car is only a rendering, but the company is searching for investors, who may be interested and help the C12 GTS Concept to become a real sports car.

    Check out the video and the pictures below.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFDxUxWEV80

    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept
    Alfa Romeo 12C GTS Concept

    Source: UgurSahinDesign via Youtube

  • Alfa Romeo Giulietta with TCT Transmission

    Alfa Romeo UK has announced the full specs and price list for the 2012 Giulietta TCT.

    The Alfa Giulietta is a 5-door hatchback offering cheap and stylish ride. The car is the safest car in its class. It also features award winning MultiAir engine technology, five star Euro-NCAP safety ratings, Alfa Romeo’s unique D.N.A system, and now, in 2012, the technologically advanced ALFA TCT semi-automatic transmission becomes available in the Giulietta range. 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT starts at £21 855 OTR.

    There are two trim levels – Lusso or Veloce, and two engines: 1.4 TB MultiAir 170HP and 2.0 JTDM-2 170HP diesel.

    The TCT transmission offers sporty driving pleasure and reduces the fuel consumption a lot. The transmission works in either all-automatic or sequential mode, as required by the driver. The user can manually manage the up and down position of the accurate, ergonomic shifter, with which steering wheel shift paddles may be combined. In addition, the driver can customise the car’s dynamics using the Alfa D.N.A. driving selector to enhance its features of comfort, performance, safety and efficiency.

    The 1.4 liter TB MultiAir engine has 170HP enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and a top speed of 184 km/h (135 mph). The fuel consumption is great – 54.3 mpg UK with 121 g/km CO2.

    The 2.0 liter JTDM-2 diesel with 170HP is slightly slower – 7.9 seconds to 100 km/h, but the fuel consumption is better – 62.8 mpg UK with 119 g/km CO2.

    Alfa TCT uses dry clutches allowing, in addition to other advantages, natural integration with Start&Stop, a function which is not always available with traditional automatic transmissions, and which guarantees a further benefit in terms of fuel consumption, particularly around town.

    Lastly, a Wet automatic transmission requires approximately 4.8 litres more gearbox oil than a Dry version, again for reasons of clutch cooling. In this way, weight is added and losses are incurred due to an increase in splashing caused by the gears. When all these effects are combined, a Dry transmission, like the Alfa TCT, is found to be approximately 6% more efficient than the corresponding Wet one in terms of consumption.

    Check out the full pricing and specifications below.

    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
    2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT

    PRICING:

    Basic Price VAT Retail Price OTR Charges Total
    OTR    		 BIK
    1.4 TB MultiAir 170 bhp
    ALFA TCT Lusso    		 £17,707.89 £3,541.58 £21,249.47 £605.53 £21,855.00 15%
    1.4 TB MultiAir 170 bhp
    ALFA TCT Veloce    		 £18,791.23 £3,758.25 £22,549.47 £605.53 £23,155.00 15%
    2.0 JTDM-2 170 bhp
    ALFA TCT Lusso    		 £19,120.39 £3,824.08 £22,944.47 £605.53 £23,550.00 17%
    2.0 JTDM-2 170 bhp
    ALFA TCT Veloce    		 £20,162.06 £4,032.41 £24,194.47 £605.53 £24,800.00 17%

    TECHNICAL DATA:

    1.4 TB MultiAir
    170 bhp
    ALFA TCT    		 2.0 JTDM-2170 bhp
    ALFA TCT
    DIMENSIONS Seats 5 5
    Doors 5 5
    Length/width (mm) 4350/1798 4350/1798
    Height (mm) 1465 1465
    Wheelbase (mm) 2634 2634
    Front/rear track (mm) 1554/1554 1554/1554
    Boot capacity (dm3) 350 350
    Drag 0.31 0.31
    ENGINE Petrol Diesel
    No. of cylinders, arrangement 4 in line 4 in line
    Bore x stroke (mm) 72 x 84 83 x 90.4
    Displacement (cm3) 1368 1956
    Compression ratio 9.8:1 16.5:1
    Max power output: bhp (kW-EC) at rpm 170 (125) 5500 170 (125) 4000
    Peak torque: Nm (kgm-EC) at rpm (NATURAL mode) 230 (23.4) 2250 320 (32.5) 1500
    Peak torque: Nm (kgm-EC) at rpm (DYNAMIC mode) 250 (25.4) 2500 350 (35.6) 1750
    Timing Single overhead camshaft, 16 valves, toothed belt with hydraulic tappets and MultiAir direct lift/timing adjustment system Dual overhead camshafts,
    16 valves, toothed belt with hydraulic tappets
    Supply Electronic multipoint injection, turbocharger
    with intercooler    		 MultiJet direct injection
    at 1,600 bar, variable geometry
    turbocharger with intercooler
    Stop&Start system for automatic engine stopping/starting for short stops, to optimise consumption and emissions of CO2 Standard Standard
    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12V) Battery: capacity (Ah) / Generator (A) 63 / 450 72 / 600
    TRANSMISSION Drive Front Front
    Gearbox Automatic/sequential with dry dual clutch Automatic/sequential with dry dual clutch
    First 1:4.154 1:4.154
    Second 1:2.269 1:2.118
    Third 1:1.435 1:1.361
    Fourth 1:0.978 1:0.978
    Fifth 1:0.754 1:0.756
    Sixth 1:0.622 1:0.622
    Reverse 1:4.000 1:4.000
    Final drive torque 1:4.118 1:3.579
    WHEELS Standard tyre size 205/55 R16 205/55 R16
    Standard rim size 7J x 16 7J x 16
    STEERING Steering system Rack and pinion with electro-mechanical power steering (Dual Pinion) Rack and pinion with electro-mechanical power steering (Dual Pinion)
    Turning circle (m) 10.9 10.9
    SUSPENSION Front MacPherson independent with anti-roll bar
    Rear Multilink system
    BRAKES – (DISCS) Front (mm) 305 305
    Rear (mm) 264 264
    WEIGHTS –TANK CAPACITY Fuel tank capacity (litres) 60 60
    Kerb weight DIN (kg) 1305 1335
    Max towable weight – Non-braked (kg) 500 500
    Max towable weight – Braked (kg) 1300 1300
    PERFORMANCE Top speed mph (kh/h) 135 (218) 135 (218)
    Acceleration 0-62 mph (s) 7.7 7.9
    Pick-up in top gear from 50 to 75 mph (s) 6.5 6.4
    FUEL CONSUMPTION – EMISSIONS (in accordance with 1999/100EC                                          directive) Urban cycle mpg (l/100km) 42.2 (6.7) 53.3 (5.3)
    Extra-urban cycle mpg (l/100km) 65.7 (4.3) 70.6 (4.0)
    Combined cycle mpg (l/100km) 54.3 (5.2) 62.8 (4.5)
    Exhaust emissions – CO2 (g/km) 121 119
    Emissions standard EURO 5 EURO 5
    Service (miles) 18,000 21,000

    Source: Alfa Romeo