A New Trend: The Compact Super Sports

The 2011 Geneva Showsaw the first unveiling of the Alfa Romeo "4C Concept." Now, it is finally set to make its world premiere as a production model. As previously reported, this is a two-seater compact super sports car featuring a compact body—under 4 meters in length, 2,000mm wide, and 1,180mm high, with a wheelbase under 2,400mm—powered by a 1,750cc inline 4-cylinder turbo engine mounted mid-ship.

While only three exterior photos were released previously, this timeGeneva Show 2013along with the announcement of exhibition details for the Geneva Show 2013, new information regarding engine specifications and interior photos have been released.

Regarding the engine, as previously reported, it is based on the 4-cylinder 1.75-liter gasoline engine used in the "Giulietta Quadrifoglio Verde." It is equipped with a dedicated intake and exhaust system optimized to further enhance its appeal as a sports car, and has undergone modifications specific to the 4C, including direct injection, continuously variable valve timing for intake and exhaust, a turbocharger, and an innovative scavenging control system to eliminate turbo lag.

As a result, it produces 240ps, exceeding the 235ps maximum output of the "Giulietta Quadrifoglio Verde." The power-to-weight ratio is less than 4kg/ps. Although the vehicle's weight has not been officially announced, it is certain to be under 1,000kg.


Meanwhile, the interior, in stark contrast to the concept model, features a highly practical design befitting a production model. Nevertheless, carbon fiber is boldly used for the side sills and center console, the door panels and dashboard have an "asphalt"-look finish, and the door handles adopt a design reminiscent of racing cars. The instrument panel display is digital, and paddle shifters are equipped on the steering wheel. The pedals are, of course, aluminum. This level of detail is truly characteristic of Alfa Romeo.

At the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show, Alfa Romeo will exhibit two other models besides the "4C." The "MiTo SBK" is a limited edition model commemorating the adoption of the "MiTo" as the official safety car for the Superbike World Championship. The other model, the "Giulietta Veloce," is a new sporty version of theGiulietta, featuring titanium-finish side mirrors and 17-inch wheels with a turbine-inspired design.