24.11.2009

During his journey aboard the Alfa Brera “Italian Independent”, the style & street guru Fosco Giulianelli, creator of “The Fashonist”, will capture shots of people with the most creative style in a quest to discover new fashion trends on the streets of European capitals. The photos will embellish 'The Style Roads' a maplog that you will find on www.alfabrera-i-i.com, where these encounters will unfold against the background of the places where they occurred.
The journey will be introduced by a video clip in which "The Fashionist" tells his assistant in Stockholm that he intends to drive the Alfa Brera back without any precise itinerary, leaving his route to chance. During the trip, short descriptions will be added about each leg, illustrated by photos taken by Fosco Giulianelli and a pair of behind the scenes videos on his quest. At the end of the journey, the “The Fashionist” will select the best and most meaningful photos to create an exclusive style catalogue. 'The Style Roads' project is by Alfa Romeo and Italia Independent in conjunction with The Fashionist. The design and the art direction are by Independent Ideas. The design interaction and the maplog are by Domino. The videos are produced by Bellissimo

Follow the journey of the Alfa Brera Italia Independent in its quest to discover the 'fashion roads' of Europe in the on-line maplog at www.alfabrera-i-i.comfrom 5 November

The Style Roads

23.11.2009

Extreme, exclusive, refined. Meet the Alfa Romeo 8C Spider, the car everyone wants. No fewer than 1800 orders rained in, on spec, as soon as it arrived. In Alfa Romeo we were forced to make a painful decision and establish that 80 cars will be sent to Italy, 100 to Germany, 40 to the United States, 40 to the United Kingdom, 50 to Japan and the remainder to Russia, the Arab Emirates and Asia.
The Alfa Romeo 8C Spider is a gem of style, technology and performance: a road car that performs like a racing car. The 450 HP 4.7 litre, eight cylinder engine can reach a top speed of 292 kilometres per hour and accelerate from zero to one hundred in 3.7 seconds. Other exclusive details include a steel frame and carbon body. On the road price: EUR 213,250.

500 Alfa Romeo 8C cars will soon be available in the spider version. And orders are already raining in from every part of the planet

The car everyone wants

23.11.2009

The 26th edition of “Auto e Moto d’Epoca”, a vintage car and motor cycle show, is due to take place from 25 to 25 October at the Padua Trade Fair, a prestigious event attended by motor manufacturers with their attendant clubs and racing teams, traders, restorers, parts and model companies. Confirmed exhibitors include, which will attend with some of the cars that have written world motoring history. However, it will not only be a journey into the past. The Padua show will also host a flavour of the present and future: aficionados will be able to see the Italian premiere of the gorgeous, hi-tech MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde, recently launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The ultra-sporty car is equipped with the most powerful version of the 1.4 MultiAir turbopetrol engine, capable of delivering 170 HP. This engine establishes a specific power record - 124 HP per litre - while also offering remarkably low fuel consumption and emissions: 139 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre and 4.8 litres per hundred kilometres over an extraurban cycle. This confirms the high performance offered by the revolutionary MultiAir system, which controls the intake valves, and the merits of the downsizing strategy that favours low capacity engines.
The Quadrifoglio Verde turns in a thoroughbred sports performance (suffice it to say that it accelerates from 0 to 100 in just over seven seconds), but this is not all. In true Alfa Romeo tradition, the car offers excellent road holding combined great driving comfort. This is achieved by an innovative Dynamic Suspension active electronic shock absorber control system, which adjusts stiffness to the road conditions and driving style. Another new engineering feature is a new generation C635 6-speed gearbox that ensures fast, slick shifts with very short lever travel for greater driving satisfaction.

After its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the brand new version of the MiTo has arrived in Italy. You can admire it at the Padua Trade Fair from 23 to 25 October, together with six Alfa cars that have made international motoring history

Italian premiere for the MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde

30.10.2009

A desire to be ahead of its time is encoded in the DNA of the Alfa Romeo MiTo - and that applies to its engineering and its advertising. After being the first car to offer the revolutionary MultiAir engine, it is now the first car in Italy to be advertised in 3D. From the first of November, a new and spectacular stereoscopic version of the “Space Invaders” advert - already a hit on TV - can be seen in specially equipped cinemas.

The film was created as a homage to the celebrated Space Invaders arcade game and thus uses the visual language of videogames. The film shoot in Barcelona was followed by a major post-production stage that reconstructed the entire set in 3D. This was the starting point that led to the decision to offer the audience a 3D view of the advert that would enhance its intrinsic qualities.

More than a simple film viewing, it is a genuine interactive experience. Viewers donning the special spectacles are catapulted into the advert, as though they were standing on the roof of the skyscraper. They will see bits of barrels and parts of petrol pumps tumbling towards them and will experience the spectacular final explosion first hand. In addition to this, the supers and animation of the MultiAir engine will be in 3D. Finally, everything will be accompanied by 3D Dolby surround sound that will allow spectators to enter the videogame, and hence the advert, in every sense and with (practically) all their senses. No better way to represent all the technology that has marked out the Alfa Romeo MiTo since its creation.

After being the first car to offer the revolutionary MultiAir engine, now it is the first car in Italy to be advertised in 3D

The Alfa Romeo Mito stars in the first 3D advert

28.10.2009

Meet the first Alfa Romeo Brera “Italia Independent”. Sergio Cravero, managing director of Alfa Romeo Automobiles delivered the car to Giovanni Acconciagioco founding partner of the brand that operates within several goods sectors to package Italian style and innovation for global consumption. On 5 November, the car will set out from Milan for an original tour to discover the 'fashion roads' of Europe. A route that will include the cities where the local inhabitants express their personal and creative style most spontaneously on the street: Milan, Zurich, Paris, London, Brussels, Berlin and Stockholm.

Alfa Romeo Brera “Italia Independent” will be driven by Fosco Giulianelli, creator of "The Fashionist" (http://www.thefashionist.se/) a style&street guru who captures the coolest people in an absolutely natural way. The most interesting shots and videos will feature on the official websites of Alfa Romeo, Italia Independent and The Fashionist. A journey as truly unique as the international debut of the car, which took place in July this year against the magical backdrop of Porto Cervo.

But the new Alfa Romeo Limited Edition car does not only bring its unmistakable style to real roads. Since 22 October, it has also featured on the virtual tracks of “Forza Motorsport 3”, the most important racing videogame for Windows compatible consoles such as the Xbox. The game allows you to choose between 100 of the most exclusive road tracks in the world, from race circuits to the winding cliff roads of Amalfi. This means that the more than 4 million fans who buy “Forza Motorsport 3” every year will have a chance to try out a virtual Alfa Romeo Brera “Italia Independent” on the roads of Europe, America and Asia.

Sergio Cravero delivered the first limited edition to Giovanni Acconciagioco, founding partner of Italia Independent. The car will be the star attraction of an original tour due to leave Milan on 5 November to discover the 'fashion roads' of Europe

Meet the Alfa Romeo Brera "Italia Independent"

10.03.2009

Alfa Romeo returns to the 79th Geneva Show with a stand having a powerful impact, where world previews and current production cars join forces to underscore the uniqueness of the brand in the international automotive scenario.
The undisputed star is the Alfa Romeo MiTo in its new version, the GTA Concept, a model that has its roots in the glorious world of racing and reaches out to the future as the first example of a new generation of sports cars.
Designed thanks to the experience acquired with the 8C Competizione and 8C Spider, the GTA Concept shares with the most exclusive ‘supercars’ a philosophy geared to the attainment of maximum driving pleasure, as can only be ensured by outstanding agility, proverbial road-holding and a weight-power ratio befitting a race car.
Its name itself, GTA, is telling: the acronym of Gran Turismo Alleggerito (lightweight grand tourer), it brings to mind a long series of wins on the European race fields. The new Alfa Romeo MiTo GTA Concept will certainly ensure the same high-pitched emotions as Italy’s prestigious GT models. Furthermore, it does so by complying with the principles of downsizing, that is to say, it achieves improved energy efficiency and lower CO2 emissions while reducing engine size. Without forsaking a sporty heart: the 24 bhp 1750 petrol turbo boasts technical solutions at the forefront of spark ignition engine technology, such as the direct injection system for petrol engines, the double continuous phase variator, the turbocharger and a revolutionary control system. As a result, its engine ensures exalting performances, comparable with those of a 3000cc engine, while fuel consumption remains at the moderate level typical of a medium-sized 4-cylinder engine, all to the advantage of the environment and running costs.
At the Geneva Show, the Alfa Romeo cars displayed next to the fantastic MiTo GTA Concept will include the Brera and the Alfa 159 (Sedan and Sportwagon), as well as two magnificent 8C models, the Competizione and the Spider. It should be noted that some of these cars are powered by one of the two new engines that meet the forthcoming Euro 5 emission limits: the 200 bhp 1750 Turbo petrol engine and the 170 bhp 2.0 JTDM engine. All the cars, save for the MiTo GTA and the 8C Spider, that are white, will be attired in the colour of passion, sportiness and the best ‘made in Italy’ automotive tradition: ‘Competition Red’.

Undisputed star is the GTA Concept – the Alfa Romeo MiTo new version. Next to her, the Brera, the 159 (Sedan and Sportwagon), the 8C Competizione and 8C Spider. Some models are already equipped with the new engines conforming to the forthcoming Euro 5 requirements.

Alfa Romeo, queen in Geneva

14.10.2008

Sailing and music: the Alfa Romeo MiTo, as well as being the official car of the 40th edition of the historic regatta (with a courtesy car service for the entire week of the event), will also be a partner and ‘special guest’ of the Barcolana Festival, which will be enlivening Piazza dell’Unità in Trieste from 9 to 11 October, with a mixture of music and live concerts. A flaming Alfa MiTo, in the red 8C version, will be taking pride of place next to the stage.
There is great anticipation, naturally, for the maxi yacht Alfa Romeo captained by the New-Zealander Neville Crichton who, after victories in 2003, 2004, 2006 and 2007, will this year be bringing to the Barcolana many of the Alinghi crew, the ‘defenders’ of the America’s Cup.
Alfa Romeo’s support of the Barcolana and promotion of the brand itself will involve several initiatives: fans thronging the streets of Trieste will be able to visit a special area dedicated to the MiTo. This year, the stand has been extended to accommodate the Alfa Romeo icon – the 8C Competizione – and a lounge area, as well as an info point providing information about the brand.
Sergio Cravero, the Alfa Romeo Worldwide Marketing Manager, commented: «The Barcolana exudes passion: passion for the sea, for sailing, and for music. It offers a concentrate of emotions that is without equal in Europe, on land or sea. There could be no better stage for our MiTo, with its wonderfully sporting spirit, in a style derived from the Alfa 8C, compact and aggressive, with the character of a genuine racing car. Every year, the visiting public in Trieste displays all the emotion and dedication typical of the world of sailing. A world that strongly expresses all the values that have always been features of our brand, best symbolised by the MiTo: passion, competition, performance, style, sport».

Milan, October 8 2008 – The Alfa Romeo MiTo and the 8C will be the stars of the Barcolana 2008, held in Trieste, where Alfa Romeo Automobiles will be the Main Sponsor for the third consecutive year.

The 40th Barcolana gets under sail

15.09.2008

Alfa Romeo obtained the same score as its rival Rambler but Rambler won Saturday’s race and, according to the regulation, whoever makes the last win takes the top step of the podium. The last day of racing, which could have produced some excellent sportsmanship, spectacular entertainment and a no-holds-barred fight to win the regatta, thus securing the winner a clear victory, was cancelled due to absence of wind.
Ben Ainslie (gold at Beijing in the Finn class and another 3 gold and one silver at the previous Olympics), who brought his recent Chinese Olympic medal with him but this proved to be a not sufficiently strong talisman to attract the wind to the race course, also sailed aboard the serial winner of the seas.
‘It’s pity about yesterday’s mechanical glitch with the canting keel which ruined our chances and the absence of wind today, which has made it impossible to race, - commented Neville Crichton -. However, 2008 is turning out to be an exceptional year, packed with great satisfaction. I can only hope that 2009 will be equally generous with me, my Alfa Romeos and with the crews who have once again demonstrated that they are great sailing talents. The Super Maxi continues to cruise in the waters of all race courses, demonstrating that it is highly competitive and surprisingly fast and we will direct all our energy to preparing it for each race’.
For Ben Ainslie, ‘it was really great to move from Finns to high-performance Super Maxis. These boats are not just beautiful but also fast and powerful; I love sailing, trying to squeeze the best performance from myself and from the boat I am sailing in and here, amongst the maxis and on Alfa Romeo, I always find this spirit which contributes to a really thrilling race’.
The 2008 season of the Alfa Romeo Super Maxi is exceeding even the most optimistic forecasts. The medal board is already packed with successes obtained at the Pirelli, Rolex Capri Sailing Week, Big Boat Superyacht and Giraglia Rolex Cup regattas where Alfa Romeo further improved its own speed record in the long ‘Saint Tropez – Scoglio della Giraglia – Genoa’ run.
The next event on the agenda is the ‘Barcolana’ of Trieste, a race with an entry list of around 2,000 boats, already won four times and which, this year, is bound to be a tough race with thousands of sailors and above all with Shosholoza, the South African America’s Cup team which took part in the 2007 Valencia races.

Porto Cervo, September 6 2008 - Owner/skipper Neville Crichton’s Alfa Romeo Super Maxi takes 4 Line Honours (first across the finishing line), clinching a total of 139 wins but failing to make the grade in the Racing Division of the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup.

Rolex Cup: the Maxi Yacht takes 4 Line Honours

15.09.2008

Only 15 days after assembly of the boat had been completed on August 22 at Antibes, in France, Alfa Romeo 3 measured up successfully to the best boats in the world, amply tested and tried by owners and crews during one of more seasons, taking two line honours and ranking overall, in corrected time, in fourth place, thus warning all the competitors that the new Mini Maxi has the DNA of a winning boat.
At the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup, the Alfa Romeo 3 Mini Maxi garnered important, useful information for completing its racing trim and will return to racing in 2009 with a packed race schedule, in an attempt to follow in the footsteps of its now legendary big sister.
Unlike the Alfa Romeo 2 Maxi, the new Alfa Romeo 3 is an extremely fast, very nimble 69-foot (21 m 40 cm) 'mini' maxi designed to race in Europe with the aim of testing its mettle in more competitive races than those in which the Alfa Romeo 2, launched in 2005 in Australia, has participated.
Like her two Alfa Romeo predecessors, the new Mini Maxi is in every respect at the cutting edge of yacht design, engineering and construction, in rig and sail design and in sailcloth. It has a bulb keel, a long bowsprit protruding from a powerful, beamy hull dominated by a sweptback spreader rig.
Designed specifically for racing in the Mediterranean, the hull is exceptionally light. In the design phase, the weight of the boat was trimmed in every possible way using, for example, a new lightweight foam in the sandwich panels of the hull, while almost all the metal fittings are made of titanium, specifically forged for the pulpit, pushpit and deck stanchions. Even the colour of the hull contributes to reducing weight: use of white paint (instead of silver as on the Alfa Romeo Maxi yachts) trims the weight by a further 15 kg.
The Alfa Romeo 3 is also the first racing boat with an automotive design inspired interior. Below decks, the dominant colour is Alfa Romeo 8C red, with many of the styling cues of this spectacular car, while the companionway is a reproduction of the famous Alfa Romeo badge that adorns the nose of all the brand vehicles.
According to skipper Torben Grael, two-time world champion and five-time Olympic medalist, ‘Alfa Romeo 3 is a really fast boat, especially with the wind behind her. In these conditions, it scorches along, allowing us to reach a speed of more than 20 knots. The Porto Cervo races were a very important test that made it possible to measure up to the best boats in the world and have enriched the boat which is starting to acquire personality of its own’.
‘The brand-new Alfa Romeo 3 is growing well and very quickly. We will be dedicating all our attention to it in the Winter’ commented Neville Crichton. ‘I'm sure that the Mini Maxi class of yachts will become increasingly popular. Many yachts are now being built and we will see some very spectacular, highly competitive sailing. In certain races with favourable weather conditions, the Mini Maxi can also fight to take line honours’, he added.
Sergio Cravero, Alfa Romeo Worldwide Marketing Director stressed: ‘From the outset, we agreed with Neville Crichton’s decision to undertake a new competitive challenge in a class where sportsmanship can express itself to the full. It was inevitable that our 6-year partnership with Crichton and sailing would move in this direction. The new Alfa Romeo 3 Mini Maxi perfectly expresses and is fully aligned with the values of the Alfa Romeo brand, i.e. passion, sport, competition, design and technology. The design of Alfa Romeo 3, inspired by the 8C, confirms this bond. Furthermore, Crichton’s downsizing strategy is identical to that adopted by the Alfa Romeo brand. For the boat, we have switched from a Maxi to a Mini Maxi, preserving both styling and performance, similarly to the way in which Alfa Romeo ha incorporated all the outstanding features of the elite 8C in the smaller but equally brilliant Alfa Romeo MiTo’.

Porto Cervo, September 6 – Following in the steps of the Super Maxi, the brand new Alfa Romeo Mini Maxi is proving to a very fast boat with great potential.

A promising first competitive outing for new Alfa Romeo 3

05.06.2008

After its victory in 2007, the Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 Super Sport from 1928 – driven by Luciano and Antonio Viaro - once again this year claimed victory in the long-distance race for vintage cars, crossing the finish line ahead of the Alfa 6C 1750 Gran Sport of the Argentinians Fernando Sanchez Zinni and Juan Bartolomè.
With 46 precious models taking part, Alfa Romeo was the best-represented brand in the race, out of a total of 375 competing cars. And let’s not forget that this year the brand, together with the other brands belonging to Fiat Group Automobiles, was also a Joint Presenting Sponsor of the prestigious event.
The Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 Super Sport enjoys a special rapport with the 1000 Miglia: in 1928 and 1929, it claimed victory in the speed race with Giuseppe Campari, and has now repeated this success in 2007 and 2008 in the re-running of the historic race with Luciano Viaro. The same car and the same route, even if in the 1920s the roads were much worse, with most of the race run on dirt roads. The modern re-running has retained many of the original difficulties, starting with the more than 1600 kilometres covered between Thursday 15 and Saturday 17 May, from Brescia to Brescia, by way of Rome.
Meanwhile, way back in 1930, none other than Tazio Nuvolari won the 1000 Miglia in an Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport identical to the one driven by Sanchez Zinni and Juan Bartolomè, in the process launching the legend of the ‘Flying Mantuan’ and his ‘Red Alfa’. A legend supported by results, with Alfa Romeo cars winning 11 of the 30 editions run between 1927 and 1957.
Thus started a success story that has endured to the present day through the Alfa Romeo Historic Centre in Arese, which maintains and races the cars in major vintage car rallies.

This year once again, Alfa Romeo was the undisputed star of the re-running of the historic race. The 6C 1500 Super Sport from 1928 claimed the top step on the podium, driven by Luciano and Antonio Viaro

Alfa Romeo wins the Mille Miglia

18.03.2008

A modern, innovative car, with a name with a highly evocative significance (‘Mito’ is Italian for ‘Myth’ or ‘Legend’), chosen as a sign of the profound links between Alfa’s past and future: between Milan, the city of design where the company was founded and where its typical style was created, and Turin, the city where the car will be manufactured. Alfa Romeo presents the world première of the new MiTo, the first model after the 8C Competizione, Alfa Romeo’s stylistic and technological icon.
Measuring 4.06 m long, 1.44 m tall and 1.72 m wide, the new compact car has more than a little in common with the stunning supercar: frame-free side windows, the triangular form of the front bumper, and the shape of the LED headlights and rear lights. Distinctive features that now sit alongside new elements, such as the frames around the lights, giving an exquisite eye-liner effect. It has a strong personality on the inside, too, where ‘made in Italy’ style finds its fullest expression, comfortable yet sporty, with top-quality materials and almost manic attention to detail.
But an Alfa is not just about style and design: an Alfa is above all about performance and technology. The MiTo can satisfy even the most demanding motorist with a level of ride comfort that is second to none, thanks in no small part to the “Alfa DNA” device, which acts on the engine, brakes, steering, suspension and gearbox, allowing the driver to select one of three different driving modes: sporty (Dynamic), urban (Normal), and ensuring the maximum comfort in difficult grip conditions (All weather). The car will initially be available with a choice of four engines, all turbo units (petrol and diesel), with power ratings from 90 to 155 horsepower. Other engines will be added at a later date, offering even more power. The sporty suspension set-up, typical of a true Alfa Romeo, features a contractive suspension system that greatly reduces body roll and ensures the maximum active, passive and preventive safety, with the VDC stability system as standard and a structure designed to obtain the highest possible Euroncap safety rating.
The Alfa MiTo will be presented to the International press in June, and will gradually become available in all the main markets from July.

Making its world première, Alfa Romeo proudly presents the new MiTo, the ‘most compact sports car ever’, dedicated to a new generation of Alfa enthusiasts.

The ‘MiTo’ revealed

05.03.2008

Black livery, lower suspension, oversized tires, 19” alloy wheels, side skirts, red brake callipers, and under the hood a powerful 2.4 JTDM 20v 210 bhp, with a 6-speed mechanical gearbox. The Alfa 159 Sportwagon TI has guts to spare, just like world champion Casey Stoner, to whom it has been presented.
Representing Alfa Romeo again in the 2008 season, the Australian rider for the Ducati MotoGP Team – with Alfa Romeo as the Official Sponsor for the third consecutive season – is sure to appreciate the car’s qualities as he waits for the first round of the 2008 MotoGP season, the ‘Qatar Grand Prix’, scheduled for 9 March.
Among other things, last year it was an Alfa 159 Sportwagon TI that acted as Safety Car in the 13 races of the ‘SBK Superbike World Championship®‘, and it also took to the track for the warm-ups and before every race in the Superstock 600 European Championship, the Superstock 1000 FIM Cup and the Supersport World Championship. A thrilling experience for the brand, set to be repeated in 2008 as Alfa is Top Sponsor to the Superbike World Championship and the Official Sponsor of Ducati Corse.
With this 159 Sportwagon TI, young Casey adds a second Alfa Romeo to his own personal ‘fleet’: to celebrate his victory in the 2007 MotoGP, Alfa presented him with a very special Alfa Spider 3.2 260 bhp with a Q-Tronic gearbox and advanced ‘Alfa Q4’ four-wheel drive. The spider was customised with special finishing touches, with references to the graphic on Stoner’s helmet, and to the world of racing, with the laurels commemorating the 2007 victory.

Alfa Romeo has presented the young Australian rider with one of its most gritty models. The perfect car for a speed-merchant like him.

Casey Stoner receives an Alfa 159 Sportwagon TI

29.02.2008

After a winter break spent conducting trials behind closed doors, it was time to get back to the thrills and spills of the real thing, with the first round of the Superbike World Championship. This year promises to be special, as it already looks set to be a ‘derby’ between the two Ducati riders, Troy Bayliss and Max Biaggi, pitting the official Ducati team against Ducati customers.
The first round of the championship was held in Losail, in Qatar, with Bayliss winning race one on his 1098, completing 18 laps in 36 mins, 11.468 secs, after a tyre problem forced him to slow up towards the end.
In race two, Max Biaggi had victory in his grasp, but then he suffered engine problems, and at the end could only finish in third place, with Suzuki’s Fonsi Nieto easily winning the final sprint. Troy Bayliss finished in fourth, ahead of his team mate Lorenzo Lanzi.
«It was an excellent start to the season – said Bayliss -. I’m extremely happy with the result. I didn’t make a great start in race one, and I had to work my way up through the pack.
Over the last eight laps, Max and I had a real battle, but in the end I managed to get ahead of him. Despite a few minor errors I felt comfortable and managed to hang on for victory».
Next week the show moves on to the Australian GP.

Troy Bayliss and Ducati made a fine start to the Superbike World Championship season in Losail, Quatar.

Saturday 23 February. Qatar

26.02.2008

Thanks to a collaboration with the Jaggy sportswear brand and partnership with Monsieur and B-Cool, everyone will be able to admire the Alfa Romeo convertible in all its splendour. A whole series of events and parties have been arranged to provide the perfect setting for the model that has been elected Cabrio of the Year 2006 and the Most Beautiful Car on the Web.
Every day, visitors can approach any of the hostesses on hand at the display area to arrange a test drive in the Alfa Spider. They can also book one of the racetrack test drives which will be held in Vizzola (Novara) on September 15-16 and in Anagni (Rome) on September 29-30 and October 6.
But that’s not all. Some of the most exclusive hotels on the Costa Smeralda have chosen the Alfa Spider as their official courtesy car, put at the disposal of guests, while the famous ‘Coast’ lounge bar will be decorated for the occasion in unmistakable Alfa Romeo style.
Alfa Romeo has very strong links with the sea and with the Costa Smeralda. A “love story” that finds its fullest expression in the brand’s relationship with the world of sailing, as evidenced by the Alfa Romeo Yacht Racing Team, the Melges 24 Alfa Spider and the maxi yacht Alfa Romeo.

Alfa Romeo Automobiles once again takes pride of place on the Costa Smeralda. Up until August 26, the famous square of Porto Cervo will be graced by an Alfa Spider, in an exclusive display that recreates the atmosphere of a yachting club.

Alfa Spider takes pride of place on the Costa Smeralda

26.02.2008

Originally developed for the 8C Competizione, and now extended to the entire range, the programme breaks down into three main reas: ‘Vintage’, ‘Collezione’ and ‘TI’. The first area – Vintage – gives a modern, elegant interpretation of Alfa Romeo tradition with new body colors and beautifully crafted upholstery.
The ‘Collezione’ catalogue invites customers to explore the world of fashion and elegance, with luxury materials, metal inserts and multi-layer lacquered paint. And lastly, the ‘TI’ line is a tribute to Alfa Romeo’s sporting tradition, offering lowered suspension settings, a boosted braking system, alloy wheels and high-performance tires.
The Frankfurt stand also features the new Alfa 147 C’N’C COSTUME NATIONAL (a special series of only 1000 models, born out of the collaboration between Alfa and the stylist Ennio Capata), and the Alfa GT 1.9 JTDM with the Q2 system, two Alfa 159s, a Brera and a Spider, all customized using the Alfa Unica programme.
Meanwhile, in the background, a series of screens show images of sailing and motorcycling, sports in which Alfa Romeo is actively involved both as competitor and sponsor, as in the case of the SBK Superbike World Championship® and Ducati Racing Team.

Watch the video

Alfa Romeo returns to the Frankfurt Motor Show with an exciting stand that highlights the elegant styling of its cars. The focal point of the stand is the Alfa Unica Customisation Programme, which allows customers to make their cars even more exclusive.

Alfa Romeo at the Frankfurt Motor Show

26.02.2008

A mixture of simple, clean forms, combined with a playful use of solid and empty space, with gloss and matt finishes: this is the Alfa Romeo stand at the Tokyo International Motor Show, an exclusive setting designed along the lines of a ‘villa’.
The spotlights are turned in particular towards the 8C Competizione, the exclusive, limited edition ‘Gran Turismo’ model, standing proudly atop a stainless steel platform with a black lacquered finish. Also in the spotlight is the new Alfa 147 C’N’C 21, a special series model created from the collaboration between Alfa Romeo and the stylist Ennio Capasa, given a special white-trimmed setting.
The Japanese public is refined and very demanding, and in recent years has found in Alfa Romeo a brand that can bring together the very best in terms of style, design and new technologies.
It is no coincidence that in a market that has seen an overall dip in imports in the last year (-10% compared to January/September 2006), Alfa Romeo has continued to grow (+5%), thanks to cars such as the Alfa 159, Brera and Spider, which have also contributed to the excellent performance of Fiat Group Automobiles Japan. Made in Italy has landed in the land of the rising sun…

From October 24 to November 11, the entire Alfa Romeo range will be on show at the Tokyo International Motor Show. A major event, in a market where Italian style is increasingly appreciated.

Alfa Romeo lands in Tokyo

26.02.2008

Sponsored by Alfa Romeo Spain, the IXth edition of the most prestigious International speed rally for vintage cars in Southern Europe set out from Vilamoura (Portugal) on October 22, and arrived in Jerez de La Frontera (Spain) on October 26. Around a hundred vehicles competed in the race, which included three stages on the track, in addition to two thousand kilometers across the Iberian peninsula, through Portugal and Spain.
Alfa Romeo was there with no fewer than four cars: a Giulietta TI from 1957 driven by an all-female American team of Nancy Thomas and Nancy Northrop; a 1750 GTAM from 1970 driven by Marta Vinicio and Maria Cristina Di Bona; another 1750 GTAM, this time driven by Marco and Laura Rossi; but they were all outdone by an Alfa Romeo 1900 CSS from 1954, driven by the Milanese team of Marco Cajani and Savina Gonfaloni, which was the first to cross the finish line.
A great result not only for the winners, but for Alfa as a whole, who after making it two wins in a row last year, this year made it three consecutive victories. As they say, you can’t have two without three.

You can’t have two without three... After its victories in 2005 and 2006, this year once again a car from the ‘Portello’ stable is the first to cross the line in the ‘Tour of Spain and Portugal’: a 1900 CSS from 1954.

A triple for the ‘Portello’ in the Tour of Spain and Portugal

26.02.2008

Alfa Romeo – the Official Sponsor of the Ducati team in 2006 and 2007 – invited Stoner to put the car through its paces on the track, and naturally he leapt at the chance. It took only took a couple of laps for him to get the hang of the latest ‘Gran Turismo’ offering from the Alfa Romeo Style Centre, an expression of the very best in Italian design, and at the end of the session, the young Australian rider could only say: «Absolutely amazing! That is the best car I have ever driven».
Not surprising really, when you consider that the Alfa 8C Competizione was designed specifically to offer incredible performance and a smooth ride in all situations. Fitted with a 4691 cc, 8-cylinder 90° V engine, it can deliver a maximum power output of 450 bhp at 7000 rpm, with a peak torque of 470 Nm at 4750 rpm (the max. engine speed is 7500 rpm).
A perfect blend of elegance and sportiness, the 8C Competizione is produced in a limited edition of only 500 models. All in all, a unique car, which draws its inspiration from Alfa’s legendary past, while projecting towards the future those values of technology and emotion that have always been its distinctive traits.

Balocco echoes to the roar of engines: Casey Stoner takes to the track. This time, though, the twenty-two year old MotoGp World Champion 2007 is not sitting in the saddle of his powerful Ducati Demosedici GP7 number 27, but rather is sitting at the wheel of the Alfa 8C Competizione.

Casey and 8C: two champions at Balocco

26.02.2008

Give the young a chance! From 24 to 28 January, Bologna plays host to the 32nd edition of ‘Art Fiera Art First’, the Italian Modern and Contemporary art fair focusing specifically at young galleries, representing a truly unique opportunity to discover emerging trends and new talents.
For the second consecutive year, Alfa Romeo is providing the Official Car for this important and prestigious event. Visitors to the Bologna fair can admire the Alfa 8C Competizione in the ‘Alfa Romeo Art Lounge’, a special area created using innovative materials and visual solutions, and situated in pavilion 16, near the fair’s VIP lounge. With the WalkTrueColor’s video-installation – a thrilling 90 second adventure inspired by the 8C Competizione – spectators can enjoy the dynamic experience of "travelling" through the geometric decomposition of forms in movement, with dazzling changes of color, light and contrast that give a close-up experience of the values and guiding principles of the Italian Futurist Movement, an artistic movement with which Alfa Romeo shares both a historic link – Futurism began in 1909, just a year before Alfa was founded – and a set of common values: speed, dynamism, and a search for innovation. It is not by chance that the brand will be the sponsor of the exhibition ‘Giacomo Balla, Futurist Modernity’, being held at the Palazzo Reale in Milan from 14 February to 18 May 2008.
And that’s not all. Alfa Romeo has also contributed to the publication of ‘The Journal of Contemporary Art’, the annual report on modern art, which will be first distributed at the ‘Alfa Romeo Art Lounge’.

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For the second consecutive year, Alfa Romeo provides the Official Car at ‘Arte Fiera Art First’, being held in Bologna from 24 to 28 January. On show in the ‘Alfa Romeo Art Lounge’ is the Alfa 8C Competizione, a “masterpiece in movement”

Alfa Romeo in Bologna for Arte Fiera 2008

26.02.2008

This year’s championship includes a total of fifteen races, including a much anticipated return to the United States - to Salt Lake City - and takes in prestigious circuits such as the Nurburgring in Germany and the new Portimao circuit in Portugal at the end of the season. Twenty-eight riders, five constructors, and sixteen teams. The calendar for the 2008 Superbike World Championship is richer than ever.
Alfa Romeo Automobiles is once again a Main Sponsor, with the Alfa 159 TI acting as safety car on the track and as the official car of the Ducati Racing team. A new feature this year will be the ‘Alfa Romeo SBK Lounge’, where guests can relax while they enjoy all the thrills and spills of the Championship. Another new feature is the launch of the ‘Alfa 159 Superpole’ Trophy, with a fantastic Alfa 159 3.2 TI up for grabs for the rider who gains the greatest number of Superpoles during the course of the season.
«The world of two wheels goes very well with our brand», said Sergio Cravero, the Alfa Romeo Global Marketing Manager, during the party organized at the Superstudio in Milan to launch this season’s host of new features. «Things we have in common include the values of sportiness and the ability to thrill. The SBK championship is a powerful communication tool: last year, around 70 million spectators followed each race on television, and we played host to around five thousand guests, including VIPs, journalists, customers and our commercial network. In addition, the SBK championship enabled us to bring the qualities of the Alfa 159 to the attention of the public».

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The calendar for the 2008 SBK World Championship

February 23, Qatar (Doha-Losail); March 2, Australia (Phillip Island); April 6, Spain (Valencia); April 27, Holland (Assen); May 11, Italy (Monza); June 1, USA (Salt Lake City); June 15, Germany (Nurburgring); June 29, San Marino (Misano); July 20, Czech Republic (Brno); August 3, Great Britain (Brands Hatch); September 7, Great Britain (Donington Park); September 21, Italy (Vallelunga); October 5, France (Magny Cours); October 12, Indonesia (Sentul – to be confirmed); November 2, Portugal (Portimao).

We are geared up for another exciting season in the Superbike World Championship: this year is the twenty-first edition. Once again this year, Alfa Romeo is the main sponsor, with the Alfa 159 TI acting as safety car on the track and as the official car of the Ducati Racing Team.

The Superbike Championship returns

26.02.2008

The brand-new Melges yacht of brothers Vanni and Edoardo Pavesio celebrated its launch with a podium finish that augurs well for the future. In the international classic regatta opening the 2008 monotype season, held from 8 to 10 February in the waters off the Principality of Monaco, the Alfa Spider team’s new ITA 742 yacht claimed third place. First place in the Melges 24 class went to the French team Flor Direct, followed by Poizon Rouge.
Around eighty monotype craft – including the 12 Melges 24 class yachts – lined up at the start in almost spring-like weather, with sunshine and a light breeze.
Edoardo Pavesio said: «These were very difficult regattas. Our tactician had to work hard to find the wind and the best pressure zone. The new yacht has just been launched, and so it still needs to be fine tuned. A third place finish is an excellent starting point for the 2008 season, which promises to be very tough: the quality of the competition will continue to improve as we approach the World Championships in Porto Cervo at the start of June».
The team on board the Alfa Spider consists of Gabriele Benussi at the helm, Hugo Rocha (a bronze medalist in Atlanta in the 470 class) on tactics, Edoardo Pavesio working the sheets, Vanni Pavesio the halyards, and Claudia Tosi at the prow.
The next race date is next week in Alassio, for the last winter challenge, before tackling the first leg of the Volvo Cup at the end of February.

The Melges 24 Alfa Spider has made a brilliant start to the season, claiming third place in the Primo Cup in Montecarlo.

A top-three finish for the Alfa Spider Melges 24

25.02.2008

The spotlights are all on the brand new Alfa 8C Spider, which makes its world première in Geneva. This dream car, produced in a limited edition of only 500, is a classic two-seater, with a steel chassis and a light carbon fibre body.
Under the hood, the car’s beating heart is a scintillating 4691 cc 8-cylinder 90° V engine, capable of delivering 450 horsepower and a peak torque of 480 Nm, and paired with a 6-speed robotic gearbox with computerised gear selection and a self-blocking differential. The car features the classic Transaxle setup from the Formula 1 cars of the 1950s, with the engine at the front and the gearbox at the rear, in a single block with the differential and the hydraulic actuator. This sophisticated engineering gem is dressed in classic Italian livery, borrowing the forms and volumes of the 8C Competizione. The Alfa engineers have paid such meticulous attention to the car’s dynamics that the Alfa 8C Spider actually has a negative lift coefficient: just like racing cars, which take advantage of this characteristic to increase stability at high speeds.
At the Motor Show, the captivating Spider is accompanied by the Alfa 8C Competizione coupé, the highest expression of Alfa Romeo innovation in terms of engineering and motoring excellence.
The spotlights are also on another ‘limited edition’ model, the new Alfa 147 Ducati Corse fitted with the powerful 1.9 JTDM 170 bhp and the “Q2” system. Then come the MY 08 versions of the Alfa 159 – saloon and Sportwagon – with several new features in terms of style, versions and equipment. Also on display is the 2008 range of the Brera and Spider, with new looks and contents. All three models feature the new Electronic Q2 system, which gets the very best from both front-wheel and 4-wheel drive setups, by considerably improving road-holding, driving force, and stability, while at the same time reducing understeering when accelerating and steering wheel shimmies.
Completing the collection is the Alfa GT, with the Black Line III version, fitted for the first time with the powerful 1.9 JTDM 170 bhp, which will be available from June.

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The 8C spider makes its world première in Geneva, flanked by the entire new Alfa range, including the Alfa 159, Spider and Brera, the Alfa 147 Ducati Corse and the Alfa GT Black Line III. Meanwhile, the new Electronic Q2 system also makes it debut.

The Alfa 8C Spider takes centre stage in Geneva

07.02.2008

Black, glossy and fast. Presenting the new Luna Rossa, the boat that will be challenging Alinghi for the 2007 Americas Cup. After the grey “Silver bullet”, the new ITA 86 is black and shiny, a 26-metre long dark carbon torpedo. Its launch will be celebrated in the port of Valencia, in Spain, where Luna Rossa has its new headquarters, designed by Renzo Piano, recycling fifty sails used by the Prada team in previous editions.
It has taken a staggering 52 thousand hours of work to create the new Luna Rossa, under the direction of the New Zealander Richard Gillies, but the end result is truly breathtaking.
Skipper Francesco de Angelis hasn’t taken his eyes of the newly-baptised creature, and just a few days from the launch, he has already taken her to see to try her out. To find out just how fast the Ita 86 will go, we will need to wait another few weeks, until reliable figures are available. The boat’s competition debut, on the other hand, is set for the upcoming Act Eleven of the Louis Vuitton Cup, scheduled from 11 to 21 May – a not-to-be-missed opportunity to assess how much we should start to dream in view of next year’s Americas Cup.
Alfa Romeo will be continuing its partnership with the Luna Rossa team as an Official Supplier, and will be closely following the races in the Louis Vuitton Cup scheduled between May and July.
Luna Rossa in numbers
18 men on board
26 metres in length
32.5 m2 – the height of the main mast from the deck
360 m2 of bowline sail
720 m2 of stern sail
24 tonnes – the weight of the entire boat (80% of ballast in the bulb)
28 people from 8 countries worked on building the boat.

The boat that will be challenging Alinghi in the 2007 Americas Cup is ready. Alfa Romeo is with the Team led by skipper, Francesco de Angelis.

The launch of Luna Rossa in Valencia

07.02.2008

There are now just a few days to go before the public launch of the Alfa Spider, the model that – following its world preview at the Geneva Motor Show – was named ‘Cabrio of the Year 2006’ by the ‘Cabriolet Committee’, a jury of 23 specialist journalists from 12 countries. The venue for the launch is Sicily, particularly the suggestive seaside village of Bonagia, at the foot of Monte Erice, in the province of Trapani. It is there, on the slopes of the mountain, that the more than five-hundred journalists will be able to experience first-hand the driving thrill that only the new Spider can offer. This car is a true Alfa Romeo, thanks to the excellent dynamic performance provided by the high wishbone front suspension and the Multilink setup at the rear. The new Alfa complements this wonderful driving comfort with a sporty trim and the use of advanced ‘Alfa Q4’ four-wheel drive, available on the 3.2 260 bhp version. In terms of safety, the new model adopts the most advanced electronic devices for control of the car’s dynamic behaviour, from braking to traction.
Meanwhile, on the inside, the Alfa Spider offers welcoming, highly-sophisticated surroundings, thanks to the use of exclusive materials and equipment such as the dual-zone automatic climate control system, radio controls on the steering wheel, VDC and cruise control. Available in two versions (Spider and Exclusive), the range comes with two JTS petrol engines (the 2.2 185 bhp and 3.2 260 bhp), and a choice of two gearboxes: a 6-speed mechanical unit available with both engines, and an automatic gearbox for the 3.2 260 bhp engine, which will be available after the launch. The turn-key prices start at € 35,800 for the ‘Spider 2.2 JTS’ version and € 37,800 for the Exclusive version. Meanwhile, the Alfa Spider Exclusive fitted with the powerful 3.2 JTS V6 Q4 engine (260 bhp) and four-wheel drive will cost from € 45,800.

On June 13, the latest creation from Alfa Romeo makes its debut in Sicily. Guests will include over 500 journalists.

Alfa Spider is presented to the international press

07.02.2008

Yet another success. At the XXIV edition of the ‘Mille Miglia Storica’, the team of Luciano Viaro in an Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 SS from 1928 didn’t quite manage to repeat last year’s success, when he won the race outright. This year, having led at the start of the competition, in the end he was beaten to first place on the podium by the team of Canè-Galliani in a Bmw, but still claimed a well-deserved second place.
Yet again at this edition, the most famous travelling museum in the world generated a huge amount of interest and curiosity: 375 cars, that from 1927 to 1957 competed in the ‘real’ editions of the race, with participants from thirty nations representing five continents. The 2006 edition enjoyed wonderful weather and thrilling head-to-head duels, such as the one between Viaro’s Alfa Romeo and Ezio Perletti’s Fiat 514 Coppa Alpi from 1930. After the scrutineering and marking day, which this year was held exceptionally in ‘piazza della Loggia’ in Brescia, the first of the three stages of the race began from Viale Venezia. Awaiting the 375 teams was a course of 1600 kilometres through seven Italian regions. After a parade through the historic streets of the centre of Brescia, the cars headed towards Verona, and ended the first stage in Ferrara. On day two, the caravan of cars made for the Adriatic coast, on the way making the now regular stop in San Marino and completing a series of special stages on the hills of Monte Titano. This was followed by a spectacular stage of over thirty kilometres through the historic centre of Rome and Vatican City, before the final return to Brescia by way of Siena and Florence. All in all, a unique, fascinating event that captured the imagination of all of Italy.

Luciano Viaro claims second place in the ‘race of wonders’ in an Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 SS from 1928.

Alfa Romeo comes second at the Mille Miglia

07.02.2008

After a good start to the season at the Zegna Trophy in Portofino, Alfa Romeo 2 is now back in the thick of things at the Giraglia Rolex Cup, the historic regatta nicknamed the ‘Queen of the Mediterranean’ for its wonderful charm. The competition has now reached its 54th edition, with St. Tropez the setting for the first three inshore races, followed by the 245-mile ocean going race, in which the boats will make for the Ile du Levant, then turn for Giraglia, before crossing the finishing line off Portofino or Genoa, depending on weather conditions.
As in previous years, this edition of the Giraglia Rolex Cup has attracted a huge, mixed fleet: competing vessels include the imposing, latest-generation Maxi Yachts, ready to go all out for victory; the most competitive IMS yachts in the Mediterranean, crewed by great sailing professionals; but there are also a host of simple sailing enthusiasts who want to add another edition of the Cup to their personal list of achievements.
And the first results weren’t slow in coming: on day 1 (June 11) Crichton’s maxi yacht crossed the finish line first with a lead of almost half an hour over the other challengers.
At the finish line, Neville Crichton commented: «Competing in this race organised by the Yacht Club Italiano, the Societe Nautique de Saint Tropez and Yacht Club de France is always very enjoyable both for the atmosphere and the very competitive environment. And crossing the line first with such a good lead makes it even better». The Giraglia culminates with arrival in Genoa on Saturday 17 June, after a course of 243 miles.

Neville Crichton’s maxi yacht continues its exploits in the Mediterranean, as it competes in the Giraglia Cup races.

The maxi yacht Alfa Romeo stars in the Giraglia Cup

07.02.2008

As of today, sailing enthusiasts will be able to follow even more closely the exploits of maxi yacht Alfa Romeo 2 and the qualifying regattas for the 2007 Americas Cup, featuring Luna Rossa. For a few days now, a new site http://www.yacht.alfaromeo.com has been on-line, dedicated to Alfa Romeo’s involvement in the world of sailing: from sponsorship of the maxi yacht built and skippered by Neville Crichton to the company’s role as official supplier to the Luna Rossa team, and its partnership with the Cortina D’Ampezzo Yacht Club. The bilingual site offers up-to-date news about the teams, as well as technical information about the boats and crews, and there is also a gallery of photos to download. A site that is sure to be a hit with sailing fans all over the world.

News, technical information and some of the very best regatta photos are the ingredients of the new site dedicated to Alfa Romeo’s involvement in the world of sailing.

Alfa Romeo sets sail online

07.02.2008

The fleet of the prestigious motorcycle team is joined by eight Alfa 159 saloons and Sportwagon versions – together to represent the best of Made in Italy

‘Alfa Romeo’ and ‘Ducati Corse’, two of the biggest names representing ‘Made in Italy’, have joined forces on the circuits of the Grand Prix World Championship and the Superbike World Championship. A collaboration agreement between the two brands that, among other things, involves the inclusion in the Borgo Panigale fleet of eight Alfa 159s and Alfa 159 Sportwagons – cars synonymous with comfort, safety and, above all, sportiness. The first model was handed over at Mugello by Sergio Cravero, the Alfa Romeo Brand Marketing Manager, to Federico Minoli, President and CEO of Ducati Motor Holding. Handover of the rest of the fleet took place at subsequent competitive meetings.
Alfa and Ducati have thus joined forces to promote Italian style and technology throughout the world. A wide-ranging initiative that also involves common advertising and marketing activities, using techniques aimed at further emphasising the natural association of these two prestigious brands.

The fleet of the prestigious motorcycle team is joined by eight Alfa 159 saloons and Sportwagon versions – together to represent the best of Made in Italy.

Alfa and Ducati, together in sport

07.02.2008

She is the Queen of the Paris Motor Show: the new Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione - a two-seater super sports car that embodies the quintessence of Italian racing cars, and will be produced as a limited edition. Derived from the prototype presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2003, it combines the very latest technologies with a body that offers a modern interpretation of the style of some of the most famous racing cars from the past, including, notably, the 33 Coupé Stradale and the Giulia TZ (Zagato tubular body) from the 1960s. Even the name itself - 8C Competizione – harks back to the Alfa Romeo greats of the Thirties, and will get the pulse of all true fans racing.
Conceived at the Alfa Romeo Style Centre in Arese and developed in collaboration with Maserati, the new saloon is an uncompromising sports car. Studied down to the smallest detail, to get the very best in terms of performance and driving pleasure, its light, strong structure features a steel chassis supporting a carbon fibre body. The engine is an amazing new 4.7-litre, 8-cylinder 90°V unit, capable of delivering 450 horsepower. It comes with rear-wheel drive, and a 6-speed robotic gearbox placed in the rear train, in a single unit with the differential, for better weight distribution. It has the same layout as the legendary Alfetta single-seater, twice winner of the Formula One world title, in 1950 and 1951. The suspension system features deformable wishbones, like those found on racing cars. Even the tyres have been chosen to give the very best in terms of performance: ultra-low, they are mounted on 20” wheels and are wider at the rear (283/35 against 245/35). Helping to tame the 450 horsepower of the 8C Competizione is the car’s aerodynamics, giving a negative lift effect for increased grip and stability, and the use of the very latest version of the VDC electronic system. This system guarantees dynamic control of the car even in emergency situations, without penalising driving pleasure. The quest for on-the-road behaviour that can satisfy even the most demanding drivers is also behind the new Alfa Romeo 147 Q2, making its world premiers in Paris. Fitted with the 1.9 JTDM 150 bhp turbodiesel and featuring exclusive sporting trim, this version uses a new self-blocking differential – called the Q2 – which increases the car’s ability to ‘discharge’ the engine torque, improving the ca’s dynamic control and driving pleasure. The 147 Q2 is easily recognisable for its low trim, rear spoiler and for the satin-finish steel elements (radiator grille, ‘whiskers’, and mirrors). On the inside, a host of details emphasise this version’s sporty personality, summed up by one detail in particular: the pierced aluminium pedals. Next to the Q2, the Alfa Romeo stand also features two special versions of the 147: the Black Line II and the Collezione II. Fitted respectively with the twin-shaft 1.6 Twin Spark 120 bhp petrol engine and the 1.9 JTDM 150 bhp turbodiesel unit, they are exclusive versions with a lowered trim, 17” alloy wheels, a particularly lavish range of equipment and a truly exclusive look. In particular, the Black Line II combines the Alfa Red body with the roof and certain other elements in gloss black, while the Collezione II is black with black and cream leather interiors.
Alongside these attractions, Alfa Romeo also has its most recent models on display in Paris: the 159 saloon and Sportwagon, the Spider, the 2+2 Brera and the Black Line version of the GT coupé. We think it safe to say that this year’s Alfa stand will be one of the most popular with the Paris public.

Alfa Romeo will be at the Paris Motor Show with a host of major new attractions, including the eagerly awaited 8C Competizione, the super sports car that harks back to the great models of the past, while offering cutting-edge technology and outstanding performance.

The 8C Competizione makes its debut in Paris

07.02.2008

Alfa Romeo, the serial winner on the ocean, has claimed yet another victory in the Rolex Middle Sea Race. The maxi yacht was sailed to success by its skipper-builder Neville Crichton, who, after setting sail at 11.50 on Saturday 21 October, covered the 607 miles of the regatta in just over three days. With this success, Alfa Romeo has claimed a hat-trick of victories, repeating its wins in 2003 and 2004. An outstanding feat, equalled only once in the past, by Enrico Recchi with Benbow in the 1970s.
For the Alfa Romeo-sponsored yacht, this hard-fought victory was made even more difficult by the changeable wind conditions: moderate at the start in Malta, increasing in strength as far as Messina, before dropping off sharply after passing Stromboli, a calm that persisted for the remaining 400 miles of the race along the route Malta – Messina – Stromboli – Egadi – Pantelleria – Lampedusa, and arrival once again in Malta.
I’m delighted with this fantastic third victory, which puts Alfa Romeo on a par with very competitive yachts such as Morning Glory and Maximus’, said Neville Crichton. ‘Obviously the challenge for the record is still on, and with our yacht and crew, with a better wind we could even have managed that for our supporters.’
The skipper of the maxi yacht still has good reason to be happy, however: he has claimed no fewer than 102 Line Honours (first place) with the two yachts Alfa Romeo 1 and 2, successes achieved in some of the most important and prestigious ocean-going races in the world, such as the Rolex Sydney to Hobart, the Rolex Fastnet Race, the Giraglia Rolex Cup and the Rolex Middle Sea Race. Not to mention the recent victory in the Barcolana 2006 race.
The ‘serial winner’ of the oceans returns to competition in 2007, when it will be taking part in a rich programme of regattas around the Mediterranean, including the legendary Fastnet Rolex Cup, which it already won in 2003.

The maxi yacht Alfa Romeo wins the Rolex Middle Sea Race for the third time, and confirms its status as the fastest yacht in the world.

The serial winner

07.02.2008

After previewing at the Paris Motor Show on the Alfa 147, the new ‘Q2’ self-locking differential had its press launch on Monday 13 November, and it had a surprise up its sleeve: the device will not only be available on the 147, but also on the Alfa GT. The innovative system improves active safety, control and driving pleasure. It can currently be found only the JTDM 150 bhp version, but will soon be extended to other models in the range.
In recent years, diesel engines have seen a considerable increase in the amount of torque transmitted to the wheels, and Alfa Romeo has developed the ‘Q2’ system to ensure maximum control and traction in all driving conditions.

Alfa Romeo has put the finishing touches to the new ‘Q2’ self-locking front differential that will feature on its Alfa 147 and Alfa GT models. More driving pleasure and control, as well as greater safety and stability on bends.

Alfa 147 ‘Q2’ and GT ‘Q2’: the ultimate traction control

07.02.2008

Alfa Romeo is by tradition associated with the world of competition, especially those competitions involving cars directly derived from production models. More recently, however, it has become involved with the world of two-wheel racing, starting five years ago with Ducati, which once again this year will have Alfa at its side in both the Moto GP, and in the Superbike championship.
Now, just a few days ago, came the announcement of a new alliance between Alfa and the SBK Superbike World Championship. Alfa Romeo will be present on the track for all 13 of the races as a golden sponsor, official and safety car.

Alfa Romeo takes to the race track with an exciting new sponsorship deal: the Superbike championship. And to mark the occasion it has come up with a new slogan: ‘winners race with the heart’.

Winners race with the heart

07.02.2008

“It is a pleasure for me to be able to work with a major Italian company like Alfa Romeo, a company that epitomises Made in Italy excellence” - the words of stylist Giorgio Armani presenting his partnership with Alfa Romeo, sponsor of the “Giorgio Armani Exhibition” at the ‘Triennale’ exhibition centre in Milan.
After more than six years of astounding public success internationally, the exhibition has finally returned to the stylist’s home city, where it will be open to the public from 20 February to 1 April.
The exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to see the highlights of thirty years’ work by Giorgio Armani, featuring six-hundred dresses, several original sketches and a range of interesting audio and video recordings. The show pays homage to the career of one of the brightest lights, not just in the world of fashion, but also in the world of contemporary culture and aesthetics.
Like Giorgio Armani, Alfa Romeo also epitomises ‘Made in Italy’ excellence in terms of undisputed elegance, style, innovation and tradition – qualities obvious in the Brera, the winner of numerous international design awards, and on display near the main entrance to the ‘Triennale’. As well as the Brera, another ten cars will be at the disposal of the organisers for transporting the host of international guests expected in Milan.
For Antonio Baravalle, CEO of Alfa Romeo Automobiles, “sponsorship of the ‘Giorgio Armani Exhibition’ is part of a strategy aimed at forging a permanent link between Alfa Romeo and the world of culture, in the sense of artistic expression highlighting creativity and innovation”.

Alfa Romeo sponsor of the “Giorgio Armani Exhibition” at the ‘Triennale’ exhibition centre in Milan.

Alfa and Armani, a timeless elegance

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