Meet the elegant and classy 2-passenger convertible, Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. Alfa Romeo produced the special edition of the chic sports coupe 8C Competizion for car lovers. First revealed as a concept car in an autoshow held at Frankfurt, 8C was revealed in production/prototype form at 2006 Paris autoshow. Conceptualized by the retro car designer, Wolfgang Egger, 8C once again revived the strong Alfa Romeo brand name as a superb eight-cylinder Alfa sports car.

Some critics commented that 8C is only a moderation of Maserati, but the truth is, 8C is more than meets the eye. Undeniably, 8C contains several elements extracted from Maserati Coupe, while the suspension is very much based on GranTurismo, and the outer body panels are carbon fiber. As a result, 8C has a low and stiff structure with an estimated weight of 3500 pounds, which is much lighter than other Maserati models.

As mentioned above, suspension designs are lifted from GranTurismo, while the engine is wholly developed from Maserati’s Ferrari-built V-8, bringing the horsepower up to 444 bhp. What makes 8C irresistible is the six-speed automated manual complete with paddle controls for drivers from behind the steering wheels. Engineered at the Fiat-Alfa technical center in Turin, 8C aims to provide a whole-new driving experience for car lovers.

Compared to other Ferrari models, 8C has less harsh electrohydraulic gear changes but at times, drivers will notice the frequent snap and pop from tailpipes. In addition to that, the steering wheel turning degrees are sharper than Maserati. In short, 8C is fast but noisy with about 180 miles per hour, faster than Maserati.

However, most critics agree that 8C is a fun car to satisfy wealthy car enthusiasts as the cabin is surrounded by carbon fiber and the seats are the made from the finest selection of Poltrona Frau leather. Grab handles for passengers are made from solid billet. Car enthusiasts can make extra purchase for tailored leather bags to be placed behind the seats.

2009 Alfa Romeo 169

Alfa Romeo has been one of the largest car manufacturers for quite some time in the market. As one of the most well-established car producer, Alfa Romeo introduced the latest concept 169 range topping sedan for car enthusiasts. The long awaited 169 classy and sporty sedan is the next pipeline replacing the old Alfa Romeo 166.

According to car critics and test drivers, the 169 sedan resembles a lengthened 159 chassis while source said that 169 borrowed several elements and concepts from Maserati Quattroporte transaxle platform. The chic 169 incorporated two new V6s engines that run on gasoline and diesel. The top range utilizes 450 bhp V8 (used in 8C Competizione), complete with an automatic gearbox.

Since the production of Alfa Romeo 169 is expected to debut next year, not much details is available on the new design. Therefore, car enthusiasts have to wait a little longer for more information.

2010 Alfa Romeo Milano

The latest 2010 Alfa Romeo Milano is expected to debut in Frankfurt Motor Show this upcoming September. According to Chief Executive Officer of Alfa Romeo, Luca De Mao said, Milano would only arrive during the fourth quarter of 2009. The design and images will soon be revealed during the motor show.

Trustworthy sources commented the similarities between Milano’s headlights, taillights, and grille with Alfa Romeo Mito. Also, Milano incorporates Fiat’s C-Evo platform (other models utilizing the C-Evo are Lancia Delta, Alfa Romeo Bravo and Chrysler sedan which is only available in US market).
When Alfa Romeo announced the new Milano to be launched later in the market, it is rather difficult for viewers to make out the design as it was covered from head to toe in camouflage.

Milano features Fiat’s main engine line complete with four-cylinder petrol engine of 90kW, via the 198kW 3.2 litre V6 mill and also from Fiat’s Q2 front-wheel-drive system as standard. Other option available for drivers is the Q4 all-wheel-drive system.