2015 Alfa Romeo 4C
March 2015
Jim Prueter
After a 20-year absence from the U.S. market, Italian automaker Alfa Romeo wants to make a big comeback. They’ve unveiled growth plans that include new products, starting with the limited edition, two-seat, 4C sports car.
Alfa plans to build only about 2,400 4Cs worldwide, with approximately 1,200 coming to the United States. It is hand-built, at considerable expense, in Modena, Italy, with a single carbon fiber Monocoque chassis weighing a mere 236 pounds. The outer body panels are made of a sheet-molded compound that’s 20 percent lighter than steel and is corrosion resistant. The 4C’s total weight is an ultra-light 2,465 pounds.
The 4C’s mechanical stats include a turbocharged I-4, 237-horsepower mid-engine, entirely made of aluminum. It delivers power to the rear wheels via an absolutely stellar 6-speed twin-clutch, sequential paddle-shift gear selection transmission with auto mode. Zero to 60 time is just 4.1 seconds, and top speed is 160 mph.
Fire up the engine and mellifluous metallic exhaust notes resonate a staccato snapping that will push the upper limits of most municipal noise ordinances.
My test car was essentially track-ready, with huge 18-inch Pirelli tires up front, super wide 19-inch tires in back, and massive Brembo brakes with the stopping power of a Howitzer.
The suspension is firm and intense with three core settings — Dynamic, Natural, and All Weather — for adapting to road or track conditions. Race mode further enhances the driver experience on the track. The 4C dismisses power steering entirely, to both minimize weight and maximize the driving experience.
The 4C’s sculptured exterior, low stance (under 48 inches high and 6 feet wide), contoured body panels, and distinctive Alfa grille design are phenomenal. The look is athletic, exotic, and beautiful.
My advice is to grab one if you can find it. The 4C’s bargain price makes it an absolute steal; anything even close will cost you double the money.
Alfa plans to build only about 2,400 4Cs worldwide, with approximately 1,200 coming to the United States. It is hand-built, at considerable expense, in Modena, Italy, with a single carbon fiber Monocoque chassis weighing a mere 236 pounds. The outer body panels are made of a sheet-molded compound that’s 20 percent lighter than steel and is corrosion resistant. The 4C’s total weight is an ultra-light 2,465 pounds.
The 4C’s mechanical stats include a turbocharged I-4, 237-horsepower mid-engine, entirely made of aluminum. It delivers power to the rear wheels via an absolutely stellar 6-speed twin-clutch, sequential paddle-shift gear selection transmission with auto mode. Zero to 60 time is just 4.1 seconds, and top speed is 160 mph.
Fire up the engine and mellifluous metallic exhaust notes resonate a staccato snapping that will push the upper limits of most municipal noise ordinances.
My test car was essentially track-ready, with huge 18-inch Pirelli tires up front, super wide 19-inch tires in back, and massive Brembo brakes with the stopping power of a Howitzer.
The suspension is firm and intense with three core settings — Dynamic, Natural, and All Weather — for adapting to road or track conditions. Race mode further enhances the driver experience on the track. The 4C dismisses power steering entirely, to both minimize weight and maximize the driving experience.
The 4C’s sculptured exterior, low stance (under 48 inches high and 6 feet wide), contoured body panels, and distinctive Alfa grille design are phenomenal. The look is athletic, exotic, and beautiful.
My advice is to grab one if you can find it. The 4C’s bargain price makes it an absolute steal; anything even close will cost you double the money.
JIM PRUETER, an automotive writer based in Phoenix, has provided reviews and advice about cars for more than 20 years.
Details
Fuel Economy
- 14 MPG City
- 34 MPG Highway
The Good
- Outrageously sensuous styling
- Just rips and spits power
- Triggerfish-like handling
The Bad
- Extremely small interior
- Lack of storage
- Unlikely to find one for a reasonable price
Vehicle Type:
Car
Base Price:
$53,900
As Tested:
$60,595