29 Sep 06 10:22
Alfa Romeo's stunning 8C Competizione luxury coupe is one of the stars of the show: we've seen this concept a few times now, but it just looks more beautiful each time. And now it's going into production: just 500 cars will be made, half of those destined for the US. A convertible will follow...
The limited-edition 8C, first seen in concept form at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show, is named after Alfa's 6C Competizione racer of 1950, as driven by Fangio in the Mille Miglia. It uses a 450bhp 4.7-litre V8 from Maserati, and its interior has also been created with input from the Maserati design team, working with the new joint Alfa-Maserati Sports Centre.
Alfa is also launching its new-generation Brera-based Spider roadster - which we've already driven and refreshed-for-2007 147 and GT models.
The GT, which continues despite the launch of the Brera, gets the new Blackline 2 options package, similar to that to be offered with the 147. This will include 18" alloy wheels, dark-tinted headlamps and chromed strips on the front spoiler, in addition to unique interior touches. The GT line-up otherwise remains unchanged, with the 180bhp 1.8, 165bhp 2.0 and 240bhp 3.2 V6 engines continuing as well as the 1.9 JTD (150bhp) diesel.
The 2007 model-year 147 receives changes including chromed strips each side of its new egg-crate grille, new interior fabrics and materials, new paint colours. The Blackline model comes with a black roof and rear spoiler, satin-effect exterior trim, 17" alloys, lowered suspension and a black/grey interior. Buyers can also choose from a series of new paint options, with colours as already offered for the 159 and Brera; an all-new shade, Giulietta Red, is now available. These models - with prices very slightly increased - are already available to order, with deliveries starting in October.
Other news from Alfa is a new self-locking front differential system for front-wheel-drive models, called Q2. This uses a torque-sensing limited-slip differential to distribute torque between the front wheels for optimum traction, grip and stability, reduced understeer and lesser intrusion by electronic systems such as traction control and stability control.
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