The name 8C Competizione is a reference to the glorious racing history of the Italian car brand.
The collection car that we are examining this time, gave us an unprecedented 'coup de foudre' when it was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2003. At that time it was still a prototype, but unlike many other concept cars, the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione underwent practically no further change when it was finally presented to the world as a production model at the 'Paris Motor Show' in 2006. From 2007 on only 500 of this beauty were sold and in no time the reservation list was fully booked. It was with great curiosity that we visited this collector's item.
Unmixed class
As soon as you come face to face with this Italian design wonder, every hair on your body will stand up straight. It should come as no surprise that this two-seater has been described by many connoisseurs as 'perhaps the most beautiful Alfa Romeo ever'. Wolfgang Egger's design with its long nose and drop-shaped cabin is reminiscent of the Giula TZ and the beautiful curves are an ode to the 33 Stradale. As retro as the outside feels, as inventive and modern as the dazzling interior appears to be, where rich use is made of aluminum and carbon fiber.
Glorious past
The name 8C Competizione is a reference to the glorious racing history of the Italian car brand. Competizione was an addition that in the early years of motor racing was used in the 6C 2500 Competizione, among other things, with which renowned racing drivers such as Fangio and Zanardi were active in the Mille Miglia in 1950.
Performance
When we press 'start', we are immediately overwhelmed by the beautiful sound of the V8 engine. Unlike a Ferrari there's just a bit more bass on it, which we like. But above all, let there be no doubt, however elegant its appearance may be, it is and remains a pure and unadulterated racing machine, which you can place next to any other 'supercar'. In 4.2 seconds we spurt from 0 to 100 km/h and peaks are around 300 km/h. The 450 hp 4.7L engine in the front is controlled with a synchronised 6-speed gearbox, which makes it possible to shift gears on the steering wheel.
Road holding
Despite the fact that this Alfa Romeo also behaves well at a quiet pace, it is mainly built with an eye on excellent road handling, when you want to let go of all the brakes on the track. On the other hand, it's not a car that uses the technology to do all the work for you. If you have the necessary racing skills, that is definitely a plus.
Alfa was able to develop the springs very stiffly by making the body so stiff that they can be attached to them. The roof pillars, roof and rear wings are made of a single layer of carbon fibre that provides enormous stiffness. Fencing, bonnet and door panels are also made of carbon fibre because of the weight savings. This carbon fibre bodywork is mounted on the shortened and modified platform of the Maserati Quattroporte.
Classic car of the future
With some cars you just feel it right away, when you may see them for the first time and that is without a doubt the case with the 8C Competizione: this is an absolute must-have for every car collector! So enjoy with us of the beautiful photo shoot ...
Photography by: Hamers Lorenzo Photography
