Introduced at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, the Alfa Romeo 4C Concept was one of the most praised cars on the show floor. Set to go on sale in several markets in late 2012, it promises surprising performance in a compact package that will most likely appeal to consumers.
The 4C is a two-seater built from ultra-lightweight materials such as aluminum and carbon fibre. As such, it weighs less than 850 kilos (1,784 lbs).
The mid-mounted, 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine with direct injection uses a dual-clutch transmission to send substantial power to the rear wheels. In other Fiat Group applications, this powertrain ranges from 197 to 235 horsepower.
According to Alfa Romeo, the 4C would have an impressive power-to-weight ratio below 4.0 kg/hp. By comparison, the Porsche Cayman S achieves a 3.98 kg/hp ratio. This will translate into 0-100km/h accelerations in under five seconds and a top speed of 249 km/h.
In terms of size, the concept is similar to a Lotus Elise at 4,000 mm long with a 2,400-mm wheelbase. And obviously, like any self-respecting sports car, it also sits extremely low.
The automaker plans to manufacture 15,000 to 20,000 units of the 4C coupe over five years. Another 5,000 to 10,000 units of a roadster version of the 4C will reportedly be built for Abarth. Sources say the 4C will retail for about 45,000 €.
Source: Automotive News
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| Photo: Fiat |
The 4C is a two-seater built from ultra-lightweight materials such as aluminum and carbon fibre. As such, it weighs less than 850 kilos (1,784 lbs).
The mid-mounted, 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine with direct injection uses a dual-clutch transmission to send substantial power to the rear wheels. In other Fiat Group applications, this powertrain ranges from 197 to 235 horsepower.
According to Alfa Romeo, the 4C would have an impressive power-to-weight ratio below 4.0 kg/hp. By comparison, the Porsche Cayman S achieves a 3.98 kg/hp ratio. This will translate into 0-100km/h accelerations in under five seconds and a top speed of 249 km/h.
In terms of size, the concept is similar to a Lotus Elise at 4,000 mm long with a 2,400-mm wheelbase. And obviously, like any self-respecting sports car, it also sits extremely low.
The automaker plans to manufacture 15,000 to 20,000 units of the 4C coupe over five years. Another 5,000 to 10,000 units of a roadster version of the 4C will reportedly be built for Abarth. Sources say the 4C will retail for about 45,000 €.
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| Photo: Fiat |
Source: Automotive News
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