Highperformance Cars

Debuting at Geneva showroom is the captivating Alfa 8C Spider. Like the Alfa 8C Competizione, the Gran Turismo which received resounding global praise; the new "discovery" will be produced in a limited edition run of 500. Elaborated by the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo, the new car re-affirms the brand's excellence in this sector, as shown by some Spider's being regarded among the most beautiful cars in global automotive history. Cars such as the Giulietta Spider from the 50's or the legendary Duetto made famous by "The Graduate" from 1967 with a young Dustin Hoffman. Today, it's the Alfa 8C Spider's turn to take centre stage and project into the future the values of technology and emotion which belong to the Alfa Romeo legacy.Obviously, the new vehicle inherits all the winning features of the Coupè version. Starting with the two "sport seats" setup and the fascinating exterior lines, which characterized by sculpted and finely designed bodywork, "dress" the automotive and mechanical excellence of the model.

In detail, the marked dynamics of the vehicle are highlighted by the horizontal groove "built" into the bonnet at wheel level. The oversize wheels and powerful "muscles" of the rear mudguard accentuate the personality and force of the model, without diminishing the elegance of those fluid lines. Instead they highlight the formal beauty of the singular external features: the "teardrop" fog lights set like a precious jewel in the front mudguard, the front Led lights, a synthesis of technology and rationality, and the essential door handle.

Furthermore, in the front we can find the characteristic Alfa Romeo stylings, with a new interpretaion of the "whiskers" and shield. Without forgetting, that this innovative range anticipates the elements and proportions of the future Alfa Romeo cars, always with complete respect for the historical legacy of the brand.

It's worth underlining that to reach these top levels of areo-dynamic efficiency, solutions which don't limit themselves to the design of the form have been adopted on the Alfa 8C Spider. All the surfaces and profiles of the uprights and windows, together with the form and positioning of the rear-view mirrors, have been optimized using computer models and tests in wind tunnels and real-life environments. As a result, air flows round the vehicle following it's natural path, unhampered by corners and irregularities. The end result is a negative LC (lift coefficient) which like competition vehicles, contributes to stability at high speeds.

But the peculiarity of this vehicle, is the hooded top fitted with electro-hydraulic automatic control (controllable via a button on the dashboard). The hooded top of the Alfa 8C Spider is composed of two overlapping sheets: the external one is made with a multi-thread textile which can withstand the elements, whilst the interior has high sound-proofing qualities. Furthermore, the hooded roof-top, available in various colours, has been perfected aesthetically, aerodynamically and for acoustic comfort. It has also been perfected from a functional point of view, with specially developed film-reels to render more agile, rapid and secure any explanations of the functioning.

In the interior, the Alfa 8C Spider guarantees a sophisticated environment, thanks to the vast use of composite materials in the dashboard and internal panels, as well as the use of anatomical seats, produced in carbon fibres, that can be adjusted according to the physical characteristics of the driver (up to now, a feature only available to racing cars). Furthermore, for maximum possible personalization of the interior, the client can chose between different environments and aesthetic solutions. All distinguishable by the particular attention to detail and artisan workmanship: from the contrasting stitches, colour tone and exclusive matchings. The bucket seats are upholstered in Frau flower leather (an exclusive and innovative treatment of the weave, in which the leather is bound to a natural fibre, creating a look of great visual impact).

In analogous fashion to the interior, the same care has been taken in realizing the exteriors: from the alloy wheels to the brake calipers, every detail can be chosen to your particular design, because every Alfa 8C Spider can only look similar to itself. An unmistakable car made to measure for the owner's personality. The unique and un-repeatable Alfa 8C Spider announces the pleasure of a sporty drive with full respect for the brand's legacy. Like in the best Alfa Romeo tradition, hidden under this pretty "dress" is the best of what's available in the field of mechanics and propulsions. Firstly, the Alfa 8C Spider has a rigid and light structure (the compact frame is made in steel for maximum torsion to guarantee a drive which is always precise and sure, whilst the body is in carbon fibre). We are dealing with a choice motivated by the need to reduce as much as possible the weight but also to optimize the centre of gravity for agility and drive-ability in the more demanding journeys.

Still under the banner of sophisticated technology, the Alfa 8C Spider adopts the new "8 cylinder mated to a 5-speed gearbox with 90°" and a capacity of 4691 cm3 which has been designed with one specific aim: guarantee extraordinary performances without relinquishing the fluidity of the gearshift or the ease of use in any driving context. Like so, a powerful and progressive propulsion is born with a top power of 450 CV at 7.000 rpm and a maximum torque of 7.500 rpm. This engine has been mated to a self-shifting 6-speed gearshift (with computerized selection of the gears via levers behind the steering-wheel), and a self-blocking differential unit.

As in the legendary Formula 1 vehicles from the 50's, the Alfa 8C Spider sports the Transaxle design which guarantees the best equilibrium in the partioning of weight. The propulsion is placed in the rear whilst the gearshift is placed behind along the differential and hydraulic motor unit. The Transaxle design foresees a tight connection between motor and gearshift, which is fitted with a self-blocking differential. The two groups are linked by a tubular element, at the interior of which rotates the transmission driving shaft: in this manner the load is distributed in an optimal manner between the front and rear suspension.

So much power can only be entrusted to an excellent braking system: the Alfa 8C Spider is fitted with carbo-ceramic Brembo (CCM), 380 mm in diameter on the front-wheels and 360 mm on the back-wheels. This solution guarantees a powerful brake action even in the most intense uses. The marked reduction in weight, in comparison to a traditional set-up, reduces the masses unsupported by the vehicle and so improves the dynamic performance and driving comfort. Furthermore, the mono-block calipers guarantee maximum rigidity and minimal deformation, given the high loads generated by the pressure of the pistons on the brake-linings.

Therefore, the Alfa 8C Spider "declares itself Alfa" all the way, confirming control and driving pleasure with no compromises. Since always, gear comfort and dynamic performance are qualities specific to Alfa Romeo cars: in this case they have become veritable strong points. Thanks to for example, the suspensions which foresee a high wishbone suspension with brackets and uprights in forged aluminum, that act as a supplementary strut for alignment control.

Contributing also to the brilliant road control are specially developed 20" tires to insure excellent performance, the tires have a: 245/35 front-suspension and a rear-suspension of 285/35. Fitted on perforated rims in fluid molded aluminum to ensure lightness and maximum brake ventilation efficiency. Lastly, the Alfa 8C Spider uses an evolved VDC Alfa Romeo traction and stability system, which ensures the driver feels at one with his car.

source:http://www.rsportscars.com

The Alfa Romeo MiTo, brand new for 2009 from the Italian luxury car manufacturer, makes a true attempt at being an accessible and affordable Italian sports car. While calling it a "sports car" is a bit of a stretch, the MiTo should offer spirited driving and decent power in a sport compact car package.

Scarcely larger than a Mini Cooper, the Alfa MiTo pulls 153 horsepower from a tiny 1.4 liter 4-banger, due to advanced turbocharging technology. Designed to be a sporty yet affordable alternative to the 2009 Alfa Romeo 8C, the MiTo sport compact car weighs less than a Honda Civic and should be a joy to throw through the esses, and easy to drive in traffic as well.

Alfa Romeo has not released cars for the US market in several years, but both the 8C and the MiTo are coming back to the United States. Look for the Alfa Romeo in Europe as a 2009 model and in North America for 2010. Look for a 1.8 liter MiTo model soon to follow.





[Courtesy of Alfa Romeo, Fiat Group]

Alfa Romeo MiTo Turin, June 19th, 2008: With the Mi.To, Alfa Romeo wishes to offer a new generation of 'Alfisti' THE SPORTIEST MINI. An up-to-date and innovative car, a name redolent of history. The name MiTo has great evocative resonance for Alfa Romeo for it was chosen to mark the deep-seated link between the past and future of the brand: between Milan, the city of design that brought to the car's style into being, and Turin, which will be responsible for its industrial production A decision that highlights the brand's strong desire to consolidate its Milanese roots.

The site deliberately chosen for the car's presentation was the fairytale Castello Sforzesco in Milan where it is said that nearly 100 years ago a young designer found the inspiration for the Alfa Romeo logo when he saw a serpent carved onto the Filarete tower.

Alfa draws on its roots to launch itself into the future

Going back through Alfa Romeo's epic history means turning some of the most important pages of motoring history. It means remembering the cars, races and engines that become milestones of technological progress and the sporting events of the 20th century. Yet the Alfa Romeo story is about so much more than just steel and track, there is also a human component, essentially based on the skill of great technicians and engineers such as Merosi, Jano and Satta Puliga the meticulous creativity of designers such as Prof. Scarnati and the architect Cressoni, and also the experience of all the people on the shop floor.

These people successfully transferred the thrills that Alfa brought to racing to the roads of every day. The best spirit of Alfa Romeo is beautifully encapsulated in this statement by Orazio Satta Puliga (1910-1974), one of the brand's great designers: 'Alfa Romeo is not just a car factory: its cars are something more than automobiles built in a conventional manner. Enthusiasm for a means of transport is a kind of disease. It is a way of life, a very special way of seeing a motor vehicle. Something that defies definition. Its elements are like those irrational traits of the human spirit that cannot be explained by logic'. Today Alfa's cars are determined to carry on 'being Alfa' - and the MiTo's driving qualities, style and engineering make it the perfect vessel to convey these values to a new generation of 'Alfisti'

Alfa MiTo: all the Alfa values in compact form

The Alfa 8C is the technical and stylistic mould for all our cars in the future. The Alfa 8C represents all that is good about the Alfa spirit and has been an essential source of inspiration for the construction of the Alfa Romeo MiTo.

The MiTo is a distillate of pure Alfa Romeo values and came about as a result of a will to give every Alfa Romeo, however compact, a specific attitude of its own made up of sensual style, agility and technical excellence - all with the ultimate goal of driving satisfaction.

The MiTo packs all the Alfa Romeo values into 4 metres. For young people, it represents a chance to gain access their first sports car that is safe with its own distinctive style and technical content. Its dynamic attributes, good fuel economy and low emissions and petite dimensions also make the car an attractive proposition for a more adult audience, within a motoring scenario that now seems to set a premium on downsizing. The Alfa Romeo MiTo is a form of baptism into the Alfa religion for a new generation of Alfisti, opening up horizons of sportiness to the female audience that is essential to the success of any car of this category. The car offers an outstanding weight-to-power ratio, absolute manageability due to cutting-edged suspension systems and direct steering, all features present for the first time on a car of this category.

Lastly, the MiTo, like any Alfa Romeo, is a distillate of state-of-the-art engineering including very special features such as the Alfa D.N.A. system, suspension with coilover springs, Q2 Electronic and DST, all available as standard - coupled with small yet powerful turbo engines.

Alfa Romeo MiTo according to the principles of the Autonomy programme

The Alfa Romeo MiTo can be outfitted with special devices in accordance with the principles of the Autonomy programme. Fiat launched this initiative in 1995 with the aim of constructing individual and collective means of transport and services for those with reduced motor capacity, keeping pace with new product developments, and encouraging the differently able to join the world of motoring.

During the days devoted to the press presentation of the new model, a specially-equipped car will be exhibited as a significant example of the numerous available possibilities. Prepared by Handytech - one of the numerous bodybuilders that works with Fiat Group Automobiles in the sector of special equipment for assisted mobility - this Alfa Romeo MiTo is equipped with a leather-trimmed half-ring accelerator located above the steering wheel that operates totally independently of the original vehicle systems. The car is also equipped with a vertical long-armed brake lever with a brake lock and horn. Customers will also be able to appreciate the electric clutch servo: this device consists of an electric servo motor managed by an electronic control unit that simulates the features of an automatic transmission. In detail, on this example of the MiTo, the gearshift is controlled by a button on the gear lever (the system can be neutralized by a switch that restores the original clutch functions).

Right from the launch stage, Alfa MiTo customers will therefore be able to obtain a car that best meets their requirements and needs. All these devices are easy to install and fit perfectly into the passenger compartment without impairing car user-friendliness, passenger room, comfort and safety. They can also be fitted alongside standard controls to enable the car to be driven by people without motor difficulties as well. They can also be easily removed with the advantage that the car can be sold as a specially-equipped car or a normal car. Lastly, many financial allowances are available for differently able customers.

Since 1995, a specific commitment with specially outfitted cars and Mobility Centres

Since 1995 - the year when the autonomy programme was set up - Fiat's belief has been that guaranteeing mobility to all is not simply a great moral and civil aim, a goal the entire community must strive for, but also a fundamental premise for economic and cultural development in present-day society.

We are no strangers to pouring commitment and energy into achieving what we feel to be the specific duty of any automotive manufacturer. In other words, to design and produce technical solutions that allow everyone the possibility of using a means of transport - whether individual and collective - without limitations of any kind.

This activity is in any case perfectly consistent with the true vocation of an enterprise that by its nature operates on the market in accordance with strictly financial considerations to meet human needs. In other words, to meet the needs of customers. And that means all customers. A specific example? In 2007, more than 11,000 Fiat Group Automobiles cars were sold in Italy in accordance with the principles of the Autonomy Programme and more than 900 people made use of the services offered by the 18 mobility centres present throughout Italy.

In our Mobility Centres, disabled people are taken through the bureaucratic, legal and technical procedures and also undergo an initial appraisal of their fitness for a special driving licence (only Medical Boards can conduct a proper assessment and issue a certificate). This is achieved through the highly sophisticated processes and instruments made available (such as the driving simulator) but above all thanks to the many physiotherapists, driving instructors and technicians who man these centres completely free of charge.

The Autonomy Programme together with the champions of today and tomorrow

We should acknowledge the commitment of the Fiat Group Autonomy Programme that aims to do away with prejudice and common misconceptions through numerous, prestigious sporting events: There is no such thing as "different" competitions but only "different" abilities because all athletes have the same will to win and overcome any obstacle. The best demonstration of this undertaking is the participation of the Fiat Group - Autonomy Programme, as Main Sponsor, in the recent "2008 Italian Disabled Ski Championships 2008", and also the fact that it was an official Partner of the 9th Winter Paralympic Games held in Turin 2006. Not to mention its sponsorship of both "Invacare World Team Cup 2008", the Wheelchair Tennis world championship to be held in Cremona, and the World Handbike Championships and European Ice Sledge Hockey Championships in 2007.

Amongst other things, the Autonomy Programme and the Alfa Romeo brand sponsored the driver Alfredo Di Cosmo who took part in the Italian Touring Championship, first division, Group N 3 reserved for 2.0 cc cars, in 2006 and 2007. The Milanese driver was the only disabled driver to register in these two difficult races and took to the track in a powerful Alfa 147 TS 16v 2.0 GR that develops a power of approximately 180 bhp with a torque curve starting at 4200 and rising to 7200 rpm, for a minimum weight of 1014 kg.

The car is also equipped with some special devices: Mechanical ring accelerator control located above the steering wheel, power-assisted ring brake located behind the steering wheel, Sadev six-speed sequential gear box with clutch activation button. The racing Alfa 147 also offers a lever-operated brakeforce distributor with 4 positions to increase or decrease the brake force on the front or rear, self-locking differential and adjustable gas shock absorber system.

Last but not least, the Fiat Group has confirmed its support for the world of sport by putting together a new team of young athletes - "Fabbrica Italiana Atleti" - who will represent Italy in the most important international sporting competitions. The ten top-level sports people who have already acted as testimonials for the Fiat Group and its business sectors include the Paralympic athletes Fabrizio Macchi for cycling and Roberto La Barbera for light athletics (the latter was selected by Coni, representing Italian athletics as one of the six testimonials of the new official uniform for Italian sport throughout the world).

Lastly, for the next two years the Autonomy Programme will back the "Freewhite Sport Disabled non-profit organization", a campaign that aims to teach differently able people how to ski and attain full independence on the snow. Introductory courses to the different types of skiing will take place on ski-runs in the Via Lattea (Milky Way) area of Italy, preferably in Sestriere, which hosted the Turin Paralympic games in 2006.

The show-stopping Acura "Advanced Sports Car Concept" made its world debut at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. The dynamically styled concept provides a preview of the design direction for the successor to the Acura NSX.

Created to take exotic sports car styling to a new level, the concept is designed to incorporate a powerful front-mounted, V-10 engine and a new high-performance, rear-wheel-drive based version of Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).

"The Acura brand will always be a home for people who love to drive," said Takeo Fukui, president & CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. "As we advance toward building a car like this, I can tell you it will feature advanced technology matching our passion for performance."

The concept's exterior demonstrates a dynamic fusion of advanced technology and emotion. The long, pronounced hood features deeply sculpted lines and embossed air vents, both of which hint at the powerful engine beneath. The exterior lines run the length of the body, creating a ribbon-like effect from the front headlights to the rear wheel arches, evoking a feeling of movement and power.

Although modern in its appearance, the Advanced Sports Car Concept retains the subtle cues associated with its predecessor, the NSX. The concept's slim, LED headlights are pushed wide and designed to mimic the pop-up headlights found on the first generation NSX. Other styling hints include a modern take on wraparound rear taillights and the all black cockpit.

"Our intention was to design an exotic sports car that gracefully combines advanced technology and strong emotion," said Jon Ikeda, principal designer, Acura Design Center. "The technical, machined surfaces and keen-edge design are balanced with sweeping curves and dramatic lines, all of which results in the ultimate exotic sports car."

Wide and low to the ground with a 108.8 inch wheelbase, the concept is anchored by grippy 19 inch front and 20 inch rear performance tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful, ventilated carbon ceramic brake discs and eight-piston calipers accent the wheels. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept's aggressive appearance.

The low slung cabin is constructed entirely of tinted glass and sits flush against the body. Door handles are also flush mounted, allowing the sports car to retain a clean and aerodynamic appearance. The Advanced Sports Car Concept features a carbon fiber underbody and the rear is finished with aggressive quad exhaust pipes and integrated rear diffusers, further communicating its high performance potential.

The Advanced Sports Car Concept was designed by the Acura's Los Angeles-based design team that will be based at the new Acura Design Center, opening this summer.

The Acura NSX supercar exemplifies the precision crafted performance that lies at the heart of every Acura vehicle. Developed out of years of racing experience, the NSX sets the benchmark for Acura technology, combining world-class performance and styling with exceptional drivability and refinement.

The Acura NSX offers two distinct, mid-ship mounted powertrains. The first is a lightweight, all-aluminum 3.2 liter, DOHC, 24-valve, 90-degree V-6 engine coupled with a 6-speed, close-ratio manual transmission producing 290 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque. The second is a 3.0 liter DOHC, 24-valve V-6 engine with a 4-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission that generates 252 horsepower and 210 lb.-ft. of torque.

Both Acura NSX engines are equipped with Acura's patented VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control), a Variable Volume Induction System, direct ignition and a computerized Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system pioneered in Formula One racing. The NSX engine also features titanium connecting rods, which are stronger and lighter than comparable steel connecting rods.

To complement these innovative powertrains, the Acura NSX chassis features an all-aluminum unit body construction that is 40 percent lighter, yet has the rigidity of a steel structure. The 4-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension features aluminum-alloy control arms and hub carriers that minimize unsprung weight and provide optimum handling. The suspension also features aluminum subframes for the front and rear suspension to further reduce weight. Forged-aluminum alloy wheels reduce unsprung weight while super high performance tires - 215/40 R17 in front and 255/40 R17 in the rear - provide maximum traction and handling.

The NSX's braking system features large-diameter, ventilated four-wheel discs and an advanced 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for confident braking. A sophisticated Traction Control System (TCS) helps limit wheel-spin and enhances control.

The 2005 Acura NSX features a removable roof panel for open-air driving. A sculpted, wedge-shaped body and forward canopy design clearly communicate the car's high performance personality. Additional features include a body integrated rear spoiler and airfoil, power operated sideview mirrors and Xenon High-Intensity Discharge projector-beam headlights. The NSX comes in seven exterior colors, which can be ordered with a matching or complementary interior color.

Inside, the hand-stitched, leather-trimmed interior of the NSX is designed to evoke the image of a jet fighter cockpit, providing excellent visibility, easy-to-read instrumentation and supportive, power operated seats. For 2005, the NSX receives a redesigned meter panel surround, a new shifter knob and a keyless entry system. As with all Acura models, the NSX comes with a long list of standard equipment and comfort and convenience features including an Automatic Climate Control System, power windows and door locks, cruise control and a theft deterrent system with electronic immobilizer. For 2005, the premium Acura/Bose Music System has been enhanced with a trunk-mounted 6-Disc CD changer.

The Bugatti Veyron Sang Noir, the moniker meaning "Black Blood," is the latest special edition model from legendary Italian supercar builder Bugatti. Only 15 units of the Sang Noir will be produced, and Bugatti is giving United States residents first crack.

The Veyron Sang Noir, like the "standard" Bugatti Veyron 16.4, features a W16 motor and four turbochargers. Think of two twin-turbo eights smashed together. Offering the most stock horsepower of any production car in history at 1001 horsepower, the Veyron 16.4 can launch its way to 60 mph from a standing start in 2.5 seconds.

The Bugatti Veyron Sang Noir specifications are the same as the first edition of the fastest Italian sports car in history. The Veyron Sang Noir still offers enough torque to pull a Ferrari dealership off its foundation, and will run a quarter mile time of 10.2 seconds.

The changes to the super-exclusive Bugatti Veyron Sang Noir edition are in the exterior and interior styling departments. The Sang Noir exterior is finished in piano black and chrome, causing the car to look smaller and leaner than the standard Veyron 16.4, even though the dimensions are the same.

The Sang Noir's mirrors, grill, badging, exhaust tip and grill all receive a brushed chrome treatment. The eye naturally traces a chrome-accented line down the Veyron Sang Noir's greenhouse, a flashy feature that serves to separate the carbon fiber section running down the center of this instant-classic Italian sports car.

Even the carbon fiber on the Veyron Sang Noir is separated from anything else in the automotive world by a high-gloss finish that maintains the two-tone look the Bugatti Veyron line is famous for. Standing out with a finish that could be called "piano black," the carbon accents allow the Sang Noir to catch the light and further accentuate the contours in a sports car body that has been called the most beautiful in history by some, and bulbous and ugly by its critics.

The interior follows the Bugatti tradition and looks sumptuous and classy without being overstated. The Veyron Sang Noir's leather and carpeting are done in a color that could be called pumpkin tan-orange, and yet fits the total styling package perfectly. Think of the Sang Noir as a Halloween costume for society's affluent upper crust.

The soft leather covers every available interior surface, and is accented by more bits of chrome with a soft brushed, yet still shining look. Not that a Bugatti Veyron Sang Noir's occupants will spend much time feeling comfortable and coddled in this interior. The Sang Noir is meant to be driven hard, and Bugatti has taken great pains with every Veyron to ensure the driver be as safe as possible at all times. With 10 radiators and a complicated roll cage system, any tragic accident occurring in a Veyron is likely to be the fault of the driver, rather than that of the supercar.

Bugatti is seeking wealthy and respected United States residents to own a piece of automotive history in the exclusive Veyron Sang Noir edition. No word on whether the 15 units are accounted for, but needless to say, pricing will be significantly more than the approximately $1.5 million the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 commands.

The Veyron Sang Noir is designed to call to mind one of the most beautiful and revered sports cars of all time, the Bugatti Type 57C Atlantique, of which only 3 production versions were ever released. One of the two surviving Bugatti Type 57C Atlantique examples is owned by Ralph Lauren. A Bugatti Type 57 won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1937, and again in 1939.

The Italian supercar manufacturer has promised that only 300 examples of the Veyron, in all its editions, will be produced. The 15 Sang Noir models are offered first to United States residents, after Bugatti gave Europeans the first crack at the Veyron 16.4 Pur Sang edition several months ago.

The Bugatti Veyron Sang Noir is another example of how an engineer's dream can come together with fine art. 253 mph has never been so beautiful.