Rob's rust-free alfa page - guaranteed

Spanish engineer grandfather with too much time on his hands makes tiny working v12 engine

2011-11-28T23:11:00.000Z

Not exactly Alfa content but fascinating anyway....

Spanish engineer crafts "world's smallest" V-12 engine

Anyone who appreciates the precision art of engine design ought to get a kick out of this offering from a Spanish engineer named Patelo. Starting with hunks of aluminum, bronze and stainless steel, he spent over 1200 hours designing, milling, turning and drilling what he claims is "probably" the world's smallest V12 engine. Powered by compressed air injection (0.1kg/sq cm), this little marvel boasts a total displacement of 12 cubic centimeters from its twelve 11.3 mm diameter pistons and works like a charm.

It's old, it's small, it's stylish. It's named after a French-Canadian city. It's an Alfa, of course.

2011-05-27T02:11:00.001Z

Just doing a Montreal-watch I guess. Good condition. Tick. Owned previously by a rock-star's wife. Tick (hmmm, is that a good thing?). Small capacity, stylish and it works. More ticks. It's also unusual in overall concept. So all ticks, really. Of course you'll spend big bucks on it, but that's part of the price of entry.

PistonHeads Headlines - You Know You Want To... Alfa Romeo Montreal

This particular Montreal has the added draw of having once been owned by Yasmin LeBon (to all PHers who are under 35, she's a stunning former model who married Duran Duran frontman Simon LeBon. If you don't know who Duran Duran were, you're not missing much...). Described by its current owner as being 'in condition one, but not concours' this car appears to be completely original, having had no major work done to it, just the correct maintenance.

Alfa 4C - sub 2 litre sports mid-engine - to spawn both Maserati and Abarth versions?

2011-05-27T01:16:00.001Z

Well it makes some sense to share, even if it rarely works: take one design and remodel and rebrand it several times (think Alfa 164 and its SAAB and Lancia cousins). In this case it's a low-volume "exclusive" mid-engine sports car, so they will have to be careful with the differentiation or the "exclusivity" will not wash at all...

On the good side, it's a 4 cylinder and relatively light and frugal for this level of performance. Why throw petrol away simply shifting needlessly porky pounds?

Maserati To Build Its Own Version Of Alfa Romeo 4C: Report

Both Alfa and Maserati have proven their ability to turn out fantastic exteriors and truly gorgeous interiors, things that have, at times, been lacking in the segment, even toward the upper end.

Pair that with the 4C's largely carbon fiber construction, a 200-horsepower turbocharged 1.75-liter four-cylinder and a curb weight below 1,800 pounds and you have something of the old Lotus born into an Italian body. What could go wrong with that formula? Even better, there's an Abarth Roadster version planned that will drop the top and bring the fight to the Boxster and its cohorts as well.

Alfa Romeo 4C U.S. Bound, Abarth Roadster Version Planned

Taking inspiration from the legendary 33 Stradale from 1967, the new 4C follows the route of limited weight, made possible by extensive use of carbon, which also plays a structural role and guarantees exceptional agility with a weight/power ratio which is lower than 9 pounds per horsepower. The low-slung sports car tips the scales at just 1,784 pounds and develops more than 200 horsepower from its direct injected and turbocharged 1.75-liter four-cylinder engine.

A classy European seen testing on US soil (OK, it's an Alfa Giulietta)

2011-05-27T01:05:00.001Z

With the price of gas rising inexorably at the pumps the US market's taste for smaller, more efficient cars is growing. About time, I know. Just think about the billions of barrels effectively wasted all over the world by the motor industry's twin obsessions - OTT performance and "model evolution". Where model evolution means a small car becomes a much larger one over time, accruing extra weight via driver-distracting "features" and pork-focused "ease of use". Whilst European cars fall prey to up-sizing as well they are generally more effective packagers. Alfa is certainly one of the best at combining good performance with economy and practicality and dressing it up with some Italian style, so their re-appearance in the US makes sense.

Spied! Alfa Romeo Giulietta Testing on Michigan Streets - WOT on Motor Trend

Having just caught the Fiat Doblo testing in its backyard last week, our friends at Automobile recently spotted the Alfa Romeo Giulietta driving on U.S. soil – wearing manufacturer plates no less. Although parent company Fiat can’t seem to make up its mind about Alfa’s American comeback, this photo seems to substantiate the Italian automaker’s claim that the brand will return to the U.S. market by 2013.

Gasp - an almost "good" review for an Alfa. Still loaded with cliched prejudice, though

2011-05-16T00:01:00.000Z

DISCLAIMER: I've always preferred smaller, more economical cars with some sporty, stylish flair. Brand doesn't matter that much - but Alfas generally seem to satisfy best. And they have been charming, reliable and solid performers.

But it seems that motor-noters just can't break free of the tired old cliches - they have to be trotted out again and again. Usually it's "trading on past glories", "all style no go", "long arms, short legs" or "not as well built or reliable as a...". At least they have shaken off the rust tag - I hope.

From my personal experience my 3 Alfas - 1982 GTV, 1981 Giulietta and 1989 33QV - were/are not as absolutely, boringly faultless as my Hyundais, Mazdas or Toyota but were/are more fun to own. And they were/are on a par with my somewhat fragile VW Golfs. From what I have seen and heard from friends that's pretty well how it is still. And FWIW my Toyota rusted faster than any Alfa I've ever owned....

Anyway, the review is mostly positive...
Alfa Romeo Giulietta QV

Finally, there's a worthy Italian alternative to some of the default hot-hatch choices, writes Bruce Newton.

Although it lapses into dangerous territory. What exactly was wrong with MiTo sharing a platform with FIAT's Punto? And which production car isn't a watered-down version of a concept?
Alfa Romeo Giulietta QV

The Giulietta QV is Alfa's latest attempt at Italian soul-stirring. Thankfully, it is neither a rehashed Fiat like the MiTo city car, nor a compromised production version of an exquisite concept such as the Brera coupe.

As for the Giulietta not being a "rehashed" FIAT, bear in mind that it's still a FIAT shared platform.... and design work started before the MiTo.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta QV

Alfa engines traditionally sing their way into the heavens, prepared to sacrifice some lower-end tractability to do so. But not in this case, with the rev limiter cutting in at just over 6000rpm.

"Traditionally" meaning when they are the smaller, shorter stroke motors and often in comparison with other, less sporty car makes. But not when thinking generally of Alfa engines which come in all shapes and styles of bore, stroke and piston number. I guess I could agree if I didn't drive an '82 GTV 2.0... which has a low-end torquey kind of engine.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta QV

The Giulietta QV is a modern Alfa Romeo that can wear the shield with pride. It's flawed, of course … hey, it's an Alfa. But little detracts from the fundamental quality of the engineering base and the package assembled atop it.

Not too bad over all.

Chrysler invades Italy after FIAT boss strikes Torino deal; Alfa finally sells some cars (in Germany)

2011-01-21T03:33:00.001Z

Truth is, FIAT now has a 25% stake in Chrysler so squeezing out some common platforms, smaller cars and longer production runs is important. Even if it means building Chryslers in Italia, or Alfas in North America. As for Alfa selling well in Germany, hasn't it always?

A rare positive bit of Aussie press: First drive: Alfa Romeo Giuletta

Alfa Romeo says six different suspension tunes are applied throughout a range that is more expansive in Europe, with the sportiest set-up, suitably, reserved for the range-topping ‘Cloverleaf’ – or Quadrifoglio Verde as Alfa prefers.

It’s not overly firm, though – rather surprisingly supple. The ride gets fussier over patchy surfaces but it generally provides adequate comfort. Crucially, for a GTI rival, this is well balanced with the kind of accomplished handling that has been missing from Alfas for far too long.

The Cloverleaf’s 18-inch tyres generate the kind of grip that inspires confidence even on damp roads, while front-wheel traction is aided by Alfa’s Q2 electronic differential.

First drive: Alfa Romeo Giuletta

The so-called Multiair engine, which employs innovative electro-hydraulic inlet valve management and debuted in the MiTo late last year, is a little gem even with a manual.

It’s sluggish just off idle but, once past 1500 revs, a bountiful mid-range is there to be exploited. You won’t need to change gears frequently, which is ideal when the shift action, as with the Cloverleaf, isn’t entirely satisfying and the driver’s left foot has to rest under the clutch pedal because of a lack of footwell space or footrest.

Stop-start tech contributes to highly respectable efficiency of 5.8L/100km, and noise refinement is particularly impressive in the base Giulietta, with the smaller, 17-inch tyres even quieter than the Cloverleaf’s 18s over coarse surfaces.

Mangled English, pretty pictures: Alfa Romeo in the U.S. - Autocar Review on Autocardesign.org

The new compact Alfa has also driven sales in Europe, where he gained 32,000 customers, and only in Germany, the Italian brand has grown by 113.5%. And this year the same Wester raised its target to 100,000 units for Juliet, because the list is antrato -2 new 2.0 JTDM 140 bhp that exploiting the new generation of Common Rail Multijet system goes to stand in the middle of the range Juliet diesel, including the 1.6 105 hp and 170 hp 2.0 proposals already being launched.

Chrysler invades Italy: Jeep Compass and Patriot to be ''Fatto in Italia'' - Car News | Auto123

Sergio Marchionne got 54 percent of the workers at Fiat's Mirafiori factory in Turin to vote in favour of a groundbreaking contract that limits wildcat strikes and absenteeism around holidays. In exchange, the automaker will invest nearly $1.4 billion to modernize the plant.

As a result, Mirafiori will now produce the Jeep Patriot and Compass alongside the Alfa Romeo Giulia midsize sedan and station wagon, not to mention a midsize SUV. Production is scheduled to start in the third quarter of 2012, and both Chrysler and Fiat expect to benefit from economies of scale.

Puzzling MiTo Sport review. Aren't they all?

2010-08-12T07:06:00.001Z

OK, it's a distinctive, even strange shape - rounded, almost cute yet somehow a bit weird, a bit unexpected in some angles. Almost pugnacious at times. Now I don't like it much but it has grown on me, a bit. And I see both the good and the bad in what is a differentiating shape. What I don't see is a Daewoo Lanos. Carsguide's Neil Dowling somehow sees a Lanos in there. Hmmm.

Neil also is one of the few reviewers to complain about the MiTo's seating position. Now I prefer the old-style Alfa position - up close to the steering wheel for leverage, knees wide apart for bracing under cornering. So I like the pedals a bit closer to accommodate the bent-legs-bracing. In fact at times I couldn't get close enough in older Alfas as the pedals were a bit far off, but they increasingly have 'mellowed' and become more relaxed like everyone else in terms of seat position. But not for Neil Dowling, no, it's still all wrong. Oh well. Everyone's different.

Alfa Romeo Mito Sport: review | carsguide.com.au

The problem is that Alfa has taken the best bits of the gorgeous 8C and stuck them on a rather nose-heavy, short-tailed love-me or hate-me three-door hatchback that has overtones of the Daewoo Lanos. They call it the Mito. It carries with it the 8C's teardrop headlights, roundel tail lights, ‘exclamation mark’ grille and the pretty, spidery alloy wheels… which, attached to the 8C, define the car as something special.

Alfa Romeo Mito Sport: review | carsguide.com.au

That seating position places the steering wheel quite high and the height adjustment is over a small arc. There is no telescopic adjustment- which can force you to get close to the steering wheel because the floor pedals are so far away - but the driver's seat will go up and down. The rear window is tiny and the relatively long nose invisibly curves off into the distance, so familiarisation is also needed to preserve the panel work when parking.

Noisy, dirty but clearly an Alfa Romeo 147 GTA 3.7

2010-08-04T04:59:00.000Z

I really don't think I could live with myself if I owned this car. (Says the guy with the old, noisy, dirty Alfa in the garage.) But it's clearly a car that had to be made.

Speculation on a coming Giulietta Sprint coupe. As ever. And a TZ3 'Corsa' drive

2010-07-15T06:11:00.001Z

Rumormill: Alfa Romeo planning Giulietta Sprint coupe? — Autoblog

If you're thinking a two-door Giulietta would step on its baby brother's toes, you're not far off. The Mito was envisioned as part of a two-pronged approach to replacing the old 147. But with the Alfa GT in need of replacement, a Giulietta Sprint could help Alfa capitalize on the new platform which is also set to underpin a new crossover as well.

Alfa Romeo Zagato TZ3 | Auto Express | Reviews | First Drives

It’s parked in the Supercar Paddock, and we fire the V8. It starts with an angry rasp, and the six-speed sequential racing box adds to the intimidating feel. You think you’re doing some damage each time you select first, second or reverse gears, such is the force required to engage the ratios.

As we approach the start line for the Goodwood hillclimb, we notice smoke rising from below us. “That’s the paint getting heated by the exhausts running through both door sills,” says a matter-of-fact Karr.

In fact, the sills are red-hot, and getting in and out without burning your thighs is an acrobatic exercise! Adding to the extreme feel is the vibration of the extra-light Plexiglas windows, while the hammer-formed aluminium body panels barely insulate the noise.

'evo' mag reviews the nuova Giuletta Cloverleaf

2010-07-15T01:35:00.000Z

Not sure these reviewers really know their cars, to be honest. Especially when they pretend to know Alfa Romeo. Whilst some Alfas crack along like the true GTAs of the past, in the main they have built warm, characterful sedans with a technical edge, smaller, stylish and clean-handling coupes and softish but sweet-engined grand tourers that lope along the autostradas. Now I have owned a "mark 2" Giulietta (arrow-shaped body on an Alfetta 'chassis'), a 33ti and an '82 Alfetta GTV. None of these cars were red-blooded ultimate powerhouses, rather they were a step short: nimble, exciting, stylish but comfortable cars with an emphasis on long, fast drives on good to great roads. They could also spit fire and venom when required but that really wasn't the main dish. Underneath all of them was that feeling of Italian passion in the style and handling, the interior and the sound of the engine. But sharp instrument just a notch off racing caliber? It was more of a suggestion, a hint. These older Alfas could be modded successfully to great reward, but the standard roadcars - even the green cloverleafs and GTVs - were not lightened GTAs. They were tourers.

Somehow journos always equate 'Italian passion' with top speed, quickest-in-class-acceleration and noise that drives you batty after 15 minutes. Whereas Italian cars are usually much more user-friendly than that. Doesn't mean they won't make a new GTA but it's sad they expect every Alfa to be a GTA...

Giulietta Cloverleaf takes on Golf GTI & Leon Cupra | evo

Golf first, Leon second (but easily the best value), Giulietta third. Pity, but there it is. This is new Alfa: better built, more mainstream and easier to live with, but in chasing the Golf GTI so assiduously, Alfa has lost sight of the bigger picture: it’s forgotten to inject the stuff that makes us love Italian cars unconditionally. So what we’ve ended up with is an Italian car that lacks the flair, vigour and passion of a German car. It’s an Alfa, but not as we know it.

Alfa to build 2 crossover SUVs in a Chrysler factory. For the love of Nicola Romeo please no

2010-06-29T06:21:00.000Z

Chrysler builds two new crossovers for Alfa Romeo - China automotive news

The two SUVs are internally known as CSUV (Project 921, CXover possible model name) and D-SUV led (Project 931, model name DXover possible). Both models will be built on the so-called C/D-matrix platform that will also be used for a few other Alfa Romeo models in the future. With approximately 4.6 meters, the Giulietta version will be about 30 centimeters shorter than the D-SUV.

Nuova Giulietta tops NCAP safety tests

2010-06-04T10:40:00.001Z

Alfa Romeo Giulietta safest compact car in Euro NCAP history | Car Advice | News | Reviews

The latest round of Euro NCAP results has determined the all-new Alfa Romeo Giulietta hatch is the safest compact car ever tested.

The Giulietta achieved an overall score of 87/100 and a five-star rating with solid performances across the four areas of testing.

Alfa to release an 8C GTA? Nice car, but can anyone afford it?

2010-05-31T00:15:00.001Z

2010 Alfa Romeo 8C GTA - Top Speed

The new Competizione will be called the Alfa Romeo 8C GTA (Gran Turismo Allegerito) and is said to be a more exotic version of the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. . It is also said to be modeled after the classic 1965 Giulia Sprint GTA. Pictures of the new Alfa Romeo 8C GTA have already been floating around the web, but here are some nice renderings of the new beast that will surely tickle some fancies.

Mark 3 Giulietta brochure

2010-05-30T23:32:00.001Z

New Alfa Romeo Giulietta Brochure 2010 | cars modified

New Alfa Romeo Giulietta Brochure 2010, We’ve already brought you heaps of images of Alfa Romeo’s new Giulietta hatch , but we thought you might also be interested in the car’s official brochure. Unfortunately, the English version of the brochure was only 6-pages long, so we opted to upload photos of the Italian edition which is more comprehensive. Follow the jump to check it out.

A selection of classic Alfas driven at Goodwood - well worth a read (by Alfisti, obviously)

2010-05-28T05:14:00.001Z

Ancient Alfas at Goodwood - Classic Driver - MAGAZINE - features

a 1931 8C 2300 tipo Le Mans, similar to the blue one that was modelled by Scalextric in the 1960s and which regularly beat the too-tall 4½ Litre Bentley on my own particular Plexitrack. But it's not just any 8C 2300. It is the 8C that Sir Henry (aka Tim) Birkin bought in 1931 and in which he won that year's Le Mans 24 Hours.

This extremely special Alfa later went to live in Nigeria, where its doctor owner eventually converted it into a pick-up. You couldn't do that with a modern Le Mans car. Rediscovered in the 1970s and restored to how it had been, it now lives in Alfa Romeo's Centro Storico.

Bolt-on wheel arches a la Torana for MiTo - by Magnetti Marelli. Everyone wants to build a hotter hatch

2010-05-28T05:07:00.001Z

Alfa MiTo Kit-One from Magneti Marelli Elaborazione isn't the GTA — Autoblog

The modification package is comprised of stiffer springs than lower the car by 30 millimeters, the "Parco Chiuso" dual-exit exhaust system with bypass valve, 305mm Brembo disc brakes, a competition ECU good for an extra 31 horsepower, 18-inch matte black wheels and a rather divisive body kit made by Carrozzeria Castagna Milano

Motortrend speculates on a 3.3l Chrysler V6 option for Alfa Giulia. After the Holden V6-block cars anything is possible

2010-05-28T05:02:00.001Z

Another Alfa: Alfa Romeo Hard At Work on New Giulia Sedan - Wide Open Throttle - Motor Trend Magazine

Powertrain options for the Giulia will be rather varied. 118- and 168-horsepower versions of the Multiair turbocharged 1.4-liter I-4 are in the running, along with both a 104-horsepower, 1.6-liter turbo-diesel I-4 and a 168-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-diesel I-4. Those who desire more power will possibly be able to opt for a GTA model using a 273-horsepower, 3.3-liter V-6 based on Chrysler's new Pentastar engine design. Transmission options will include six-speed manual and automatic transmissions, while higher-end models will likely gain the option of dual-clutch gearboxes. Front-wheel-drive will be standard, but all-wheel drive will be an option on high-content and high-performance models.

Alfa ramps up the spin - MiTo joins NSW Police

2010-05-24T13:04:00.001Z

Alfa Romeo MiTo joins Police force | Car Advice | News | Reviews

Though this isn’t the DNA you might think. What we are talking about is the DNA Technology fitted to the Alfa Romeo MiTo, the latest car to be joining the Sydney Police Force.

OK I'll swap you. It's about a Delage but Alfa gets a mention!

2010-05-13T18:05:00.001Z

Nazis to Targa, this car has seen a lot of the world - Local News - Sports - General - The Examiner Newspaper

"I had my 1933 Alfa Romeo at the Malaysian GP, but had trouble with the fuel there and later at the 2008 historic events associated with the Australian GP.

"The Delage was parked opposite me - a car I've always admired.

"It's owner came over to me and asked if I'd consider a straight swap of his Delage for one of my other cars, an Italian- made OM sports car that finished sixth in the Italian Targa Florio in 1930.

"I looked him in the eye, and immediately said: `I've considered it, accepted your offer, bring the papers tomorrow night and I'll drive it home.'

Advert for the Alfa Giulia SS - hand built.... and decidedly expensive

2010-05-13T17:37:00.001Z

It's an old ad but very modern in feel. I'd buy one...
Vintage Scans: Alfa Romeo

Interesting Alfetta GTV review - 35 years after the fact

2010-05-13T17:29:00.001Z

I think the writer could have found a car in better condition, but at least it's a fairly positive and reasonably factual piece. Aussie GTVs and earlier GTs were saddled with some of the US cars' woes but IMHO were not as enfeebled as suggested. And personally I could barely pick any difference between the 2 litre 4 and the 2.5l V6. Of course I have the 4 in my garage so I'm possibly biased...

Curbside Classic: 1975 Alfa Romeo Alfetta GT Coupe/GTV | The Truth About Cars

The Alfetta and the GT were sold in the US starting in 1975, under a variety of names. The sedan petered out by 1979, but the coupe had much longer run, thanks to the implant of Alfa’s first modern V6 engine, which turned it into the GTV-6, from 1981 through 1986. That delicious confection of chrome induction tubes and soul-stirring mechanical music gave the Alfetta a new lease on life, especially in the performance-hungry US. The 1.8 and 2.0 fours of the early version put out some 124hp, which was not sufficient in the face of competition from new small hot hatches like the VW GTI, the Corolla GT-S, and others, especially considering its higher price tag.

A confused MiTo or a reviewer without a clue?

2010-05-11T02:48:00.001Z

Maybe the car had a problem, not unusual in a press-test car. (That possibility was not explored by the writer.) Or perhaps the driver was misreading the car's feedback (definitely possible, car reviewers rarely exhibit any idea how to drive). Or the MiTo has a split personality just as the writer describes. I guess we'll never know unless we drive this spooky car ourselves!

Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4 Multiair Review – La Bella Figura

So what I’ve found out so far was that the Mito may oversteer without your knowledge but it also may understeer without your knowledge too. While it is nimble and agile, it does get confused sometimes. Hence the Mito has a multiple personality disorder or in other words; there is some lunacy involved every time you drive the car.

Zagato TZ3 Corsa celebrates 100 years of Alfa

2010-05-10T01:58:00.001Z

Zagato Alfa Romeo Centenary TZ3 Corsa

Zagato is celebrating its long term links with Alfa Romeo during the marque’s centenary year by crafting a modern interpretation of the classic Alfa TZ and TZ2 racing cars of the 1960s. Like the originals, the cutting edge TZ3 is designed to minimize weight yet use the most powerful drive-train possible, so the 1960s aluminum tubular frame has been replaced by a carbon fiber monocoque with hand-crafted aluminum panels and in place of the original four cylinder engine is an 8C Competizone 4.2 liter V8. The final equation is 420 bhp pushing a curb weight of 850 kg for a 0-100 kmh in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 300 kmh… and good looks and wicked roadholding.

Not an Alfa but mad enough to be interesting

2010-04-30T00:46:00.001Z

Renaultsport Clio 255 V6 | evo Fast Fleet

The Renaultsport Clio V6 255. A motoring oddity if there ever was one. Take a big, heavy 3-litre V6 engine and drop it in the middle of a short, light Clio chassis. Hook up a rear-wheel-drive, six-speed manual transmission, inject some plumping chemicals into the bodywork et voilà! - you have a car that is rarer than a Ferrari F430, as visually arresting as a Lamborghini and as challenging to drive as a 911 Turbo. The one you see here is mine, and it cost me just £17,500.

Of course, there are those who think that spending £17,500 on a bizarre-looking Clio with the engine in the wrong place is madness. One of them is my wife.

Pininfarina's Alfa Spider concept

2010-04-24T01:44:00.000Z

Not sure I want one myself but I do like the look of the thing. Lots of words here, the pics at the end are worth it though.

Pininfarina | 2uettottanta

What is the 2uettottanta effect? Desire. Whoever sees it “must” possess it, drive it, enjoy it. Because the 2uettottanta is not an unattainable dream. Nor does the 2uettottanta only want to impress at first glance, but to achieve a beauty that does not strive solely for immediate confirmation, but gradually reveals all its values and transfers them to the future, making the style eternal. As it did in the case of the Duetto, which continues to be celebrated as an icon of design after more than 40 years.

Nice Giulietta review, shame the reviewer has lost the plot

2010-04-17T13:17:00.000Z

Here's a nice review of the new Giulietta. That's great.

But the problem here (that wrecks it for me, sadly, as I'm particular about tiny details) is that the first few paragraphs are little more than ill-formed opinion on what ails Alfa, rather than a review of a car. It was starting to sound like a rehash of the usual 'Alfa hasn't made a decent car in 30 years' line but it became increasingly obvious that the sort of apparently obvious flaws Alfa may have as a car maker are also to be found in the skills this motor noter let loose with a keyboard. I was wary (but forgiving - it's apparently a US-based blog after all) when it seemed that the writer was unaware that there was another Giulietta beyween the first and the latest one, but then this clanger (see quote in para below) dropped.

Oh dear, an almost 30-year-old chassis, eh? Exactly which chassis is imagined here - perhaps ARNA or 33? Now my recollection is that the 147 is a cut-back 156 chassis. And the 156 was introduced with a fresh chassis - again, trusting my memory only - in about 1997. That's not quite 30 years, is it? (OK, it's getting closer, but why exaggerate like this?) Neither the ARNA nor 33 look remotely like a 156 or 147 in terms of body construction (not truly being a chassis per se in any case) and had more to do with the Nissan Pulsar and Alfasud respectively. Can this writer be referring to the only other FWD "chassis" I can even remotely imagine is relevant here, the 164? As that was a shared development with FIAT and SAAB and again quite unlike a 156 I guess not. So - unless there's secret knowledge here - we have yet another Alfa reviewer with a warped sense of history and the opportunity to share it with us.

But the actual review was fair enough. So why not just review the car?

2011 Alfa Romeo Giulietta First Drive

The Giulietta replaces the Alfa Romeo 147, a technical dinosaur that we nonetheless actually like a bunch. There were various bits and pieces introduced to the front-wheel-drive 147 over its nine-year life cycle that helped compensate for the shortcomings of its almost 30-year-old chassis.

Not flawed but impressive and competent - which apparently is a flaw. Huh?

2010-04-15T13:41:00.001Z

evo continues to write schizoid rubbish... the new Giulietta is impressive and competent, apparently, but lacks the flaws and "characterful" driving experience of the past Alfa generation. I think they mean the 147GTA as they haven't - in my memory - mentioned this characterful driving experience with regard to other recent Alfas. Damned with faint praise is the usual tone of evo reviews. Oh well, can't please everyone I guess.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Multiair review | evo

But - and it’s a big but for an Alfa Romeo - the sparkle’s missing. Previous generation Alfas have been flawed but undeniably characterful to drive. The Giulietta turns the brand’s personality on its head, dishing up a very impressive and competent driving experience that doesn’t really have you gagging to go back.

evo reviews series 3 Giulietta Quadrofoglio Verde

2010-04-15T13:32:00.000Z

I think it's a fair review overall but I'm not sure what "too tied down and inert" really mean. It's tied down, ie not loose I guess, and has lots of inertia? I gather that means it's not taily and more GT than hot hatch? And that's "a shame for an Alfa Romeo"? As a long-time Alfetta GTV driver that non-taily, understeery inertia is actually what I think of as "well balanced". I know the 105s were more taily, especially in the wet, but that was waaaay back in the 70s... just what do evo mag expect a 2010 Alfa to be? (Taily, obviously.)

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Cloverleaf review | evo

Switch to Dynamic and it's a much better Giulietta. The throttle sharpens so you can enjoy the hefty low-end torque better and hear that deep, crisp engine note. The steering weight rises but in a natural way, not by artificially increasing resistance. And the brakes change from spongy to quite sharp, thanks to 'pre-fill'. Dynamic also loosens the tail a little before VDC intervenes, but this is still not a car to be pointed keenly into a bend on a trailing throttle and caught with a dab of power. It's too tied-down and inert for that, which is a shame for an Alfa Romeo.

Alfa can't win when motor-noters contradict themselves

2010-04-15T13:19:00.001Z

I don't fully understand why I "love" Alfas, I just do. OK, just some Alfas. Mostly the ones I like or have owned (not always the same thing). I do enjoy the sense of history, the style and the racing cred, and the (sometimes flawed) high-end engineering at mid-range pricing. So I understand where the sort of opinion quoted below is coming from, but really... how can Alfa win at this game? To be charismatic they must make flawed cars, yet to sell cars they have to make better ones. Eh? Or so the motor-noters repeat, ad nauseum. They all seem to say the same thing, as though they can't really think for themselves... hmmm.

The new Alfa: not for petrolheads blog on Evo Community by Stephen Dobie

The 147 GTA is a case in point. Its gorgeous looks and sonorous V6 engine gloss over a host of inherent flaws. I want one, even though I know I shouldn’t.

It’s a car I thought a lot about on the launch of the Alfa Giulietta a fortnight ago (first drive here). The two cars feel like polar opposites; the new Golf-fighter looks and feels conventional, has a clever and efficient engine, and drives as well as most things in its class. It’s very good. And yet I can't love it. There are no glaring flaws or problems you’d have to learn your way around. You could buy one without false justifications, without the knowledge you were taking leave of your senses or risking a world of expense and despair.

For the centenary, a nuova TZ?

2010-04-09T01:10:00.001Z

Why not? In a market filled with shapely, high-priced performance car options it's unlikely that it would reach production, but a TZ concept keeps Alfa on the radar in its 100th year.

Alfa Romeo TZ3 Corsa Zagato Concept Announced for Villa d'Este Concours - Wide Open Throttle - Motor Trend Magazine

According to a recent release highlighting several cars set to be displayed at the 2010 Villa D'Este Concorso d'Eleganza, a new Alfa Romeo concept - penned by famed Italian design firm Zagato - will make its world debut April 24. The car will follow Alfa Romeo concepts by both Bertone and Pininfarina that debuted in Geneva earlier this year.
Dubbed the Alfa Romeo TZ3 Corsa, the concept will undoubtedly pay homage to special Alfa TZ models of the past while at the same time celebrating Alfa Romeo's centenary anniversary. The TZ3 Corsa is said to celebrate the shared philosophy of "utilitarian beauty" that both Alfa Romeo and Zagato embrace.

I just like the look of the thing - 1.4litres with attitude

2010-04-07T05:45:00.001Z

Markuzzi Alfa Romeo MiTo

Markuzzi Exclusive could probably modify any cars and after presenting you some refined supercars they released a tuning package for the new Alfa Romeo MiTo 1.4TB. At the exterior level, Markuzzi’s Alfa Romeo MiTo received slight design upgrades, an adjustable suspension and a new set of 19″ aluminum wheels from SPort wrapped in high performance tires.

Alfa in US in 2012? Giulia first?

2010-04-07T05:40:00.001Z

Of most interest would be the name, I reckon. If Giulia. MiTo and Giulietta remain intact as nameplates in the US I'd be amazed. Anyway, the car's the thing (at least here) and the Giulia would be produced in one of the Chrysler plants.

Report: Alfa Romeo Giulia Coming In 2011 - MotorAuthority

The new Alfa Romeo Giulia sedan is reportedly set to be revealed next year for the European market, while Americans will have to wait an additional year. According to Fiat-Chrysler CEO, Sergio Marchionne, the Alfa Romeo brand isn’t likely to arrive in the U.S. until 2012, when local production of the Giulia--and a Chrysler model based on the same platform--starts up.

Based on Fiat Group’s new “Compact-Wide” platform, the front-wheel drive Giulia will feature a McPherson front axle with a twin-link rear suspension. A high-performance all-wheel drive variant may also be offered, as well as a sporty wagon.

AutoExpress damns 135BHP MiTo MultiAir with nice styling and engine, shame about the rest

2010-04-01T05:49:00.001Z

Motor-noters are never happy, are they? Even when a car hits lots of sensible targets, it's just not good enough.

Alfa Romeo MiTo Multiair 135bhp | First Drives | Car Reviews | Auto Express

We’ve already driven the hot 170bhp Cloverleaf variant, but for those who want to trade some of that power for extra economy, a 135bhp version of the same 1.4-litre turbocharged engine is also on sale.

Essentially a sophisticated electronic variable valve timing system, MultiAir technology accurately controls airflow into the combustion chamber. The result is greater torque at low revs, better top-end performance, good fuel economy and
lowered CO2 emissions.

Last 147 to be registered in the UK - and it's a diesel

2010-04-01T04:50:00.001Z

Not sure if the last 147 sold in the UK will be such a big collector's item, but it's still a nice car. Note that the guy has to be an Alfa nut after buying 8 of the wretchedly lovely things.

Terance snaps up motoring history (From Knutsford Guardian)

Terance, 64, said: “I’ve always been a huge Alfa Romeo fan, so to know I have played a small part in its history is fantastic.”

Terance has been living in Bermuda for the past 16 years, but recently returned home to the UK. His new car will be his eighth Alfa Romeo, with Terance’s past cars including an Alfetta, an Alfa Romeo 33 and the original Giulietta.

Evo damns MiTo Cloverleaf with faint praise

2010-03-31T20:29:00.001Z

It's not a magazine that praises form and function over acceleration, so this is a fairly predictable - but honest - review.

Alfa Romeo MiTo Cloverleaf review | evo

It’s the best Mito we’ve driven. Damned by faint praise, then? Well, it’s not a hardcore charger in the mould of the Clio 200, but instead trades outright driver appeal for a good measure of refinement and ride comfort. It strikes a good balance in this regard – even on Highland roads ripped apart by winter frosts, the ride never became crashy, the dampers never clobbered their bump stops, something that simply isn’t true of the standard Mito.

Vaguely mixed MiTo review from TimesOnline

2010-03-31T06:33:00.001Z

It's not a bad read but I'm not sure what the reviewer is really saying, either. Good? Bad? Compromised? Or simply charismatic but odd?

Behind the wheel: the Alfa Romeo MiTo MultiAir 1.4 review | New Car Reviews - Times Online

The hatch is stylishly petite and stylishly high up, which means that to get anything into the boot you’re going to have to lift it almost to chest height and then sort of post it. And the back seats tip but don’t fold flat. But this disdain for practicality is historical, too. Alfa may be the only company to build an estate car that offered less boot space than the saloon it was modelled on (the 156 Sportwagon).

This blog has moved

2010-03-25T05:25:00.001Z

This blog is now located at http://gtveloce116.blogspot.com/.
You will be automatically redirected in 30 seconds, or you may click here.

For feed subscribers, please update your feed subscriptions to
http://gtveloce116.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default.

3rd time 'round for the Giulietta

2010-02-26T00:35:00.001Z

I owned the wedge-shaped 2nd or 'nuova' Giulietta back in the early '80s, so I am pleased to see a "mark III" use of the name. And the car - the 147 replacement - looks pretty good to my tired old eyes. I won't be able to afford one unless I sell my kids into slavery but there you go. If you have taste and style and want a cool car, here it is. At least until the GTA is launched.

Wraps come off Giulietta | Auto Express News | News | Auto Express

Say ciao to Alfa Romeo’s rival for the Volkswagen Golf! This is the first official image of the family star, which was at the centre of a last-minute name change.

Due to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, it had been thought the car would be called Milano. However, just moments before the official name was confirmed to us, Alfa bosses decided to change it...

The new name is Giulietta – a last minute alteration that was made following the firm's decision to scale back its businesses presence in Milan. The five-door hatch replaces the 147, and it sports a stylish look inspired by the firm’s 8C Competizione supercar and MiTo supermini.

Link to Auto Express Alfa Giulietta pics

2010-01-22T00:50:00.001Z

Alfa Giulietta spied | Auto Express News | News | Auto Express

Here's proof that Alfa's new Giulietta is inching ever closer to the showroom. Eagle-eyed Auto Express reader Paul Davies spied this prototype testing in Livigno, northern Italy recently.

Due to make its worldwide debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, the Giulietta five-door hatch replaces the 147, and underneath the plastic disguise of this mule is a stylish look inspired by the firm’s 8C Competizione supercar and MiTo supermini.

evo mag remembers the Alfasud

2010-01-14T03:39:00.001Z

I'm not sure I totally agree, but here in Oz rust wasn't such a problem, so it's a different perspective. Yes, they rusted, all cars did back then, but Alfas had "a reputation", deserved or not. OTOH not one of my Alfas has had serious rust. The Giulietta, none at all. The 33ti, none again. The GTV, some rust where the rear mounted battery spilled acid.. and some surface rust on the boot, almost 30 years after manufacture... in fact a Hyundai Excel we had for a few years - an excellent car, BTW - rusted more than all 3 Alfas put together. But that's my Aussie experience only...

More pertinent may be the oil that could easily get on the (inboard) front rotors, not mentioned in the article.

1972: Alfa Romeo Alfasud | Car Feature | evo

When did Alfa Romeo last build a really great car, something that set standards and shamed the competition? It may have given us some inspired vehicles over the last few decades – and plenty of sheds too if truth be told – but none has been so effortlessly superior in its class as the Alfasud.

NZ Mito article

2010-01-05T22:19:00.001Z

Not entirely sure why "DNA" is pretentious - it's used everywhere these days, almost always out of context. But it's a positive review overall.

Alfa Romeo: Zippy Mito with pedigree - Motoring - NZ Herald News

Alfa Romeo has designed this car to ooze style; to recall the brand's design and racing heritage; to deliver a premium performance persona in a pocket-sized package.

Politics of location. Why the Milano became the Giuletta Mk III?

2009-12-14T02:10:00.001Z

I hope this isn't the reason, but it sure makes sense. With the famous 'Alfa Romeo Milano' now no more than words, the revised badgework becomes necessary. From a business angle moving to Torino makes a lot of sense. But my heart is with Milano I'm afraid.

New Alfa small car mystery | Car News | Hot Hatchbacks | evo

We’re led to believe the reasoning behind it all lies in Alfa Romeo’s decision to relocate fully from Milan (or, indeed, Milano) to Turin, turning its back on 99 years of Milanese heritage. Since Fiat’s acquisition of Alfa in 1986, the company has gradually been moved away from its home, with car production stopped in 2000 and the last group of employees – designers and engineers, mainly – being shifted early next year.

Rave review of MultiAir and the MiTo

2009-12-11T01:13:00.001Z

Alfa Romeo Mito MultiAir | Car feature | evo

MultiAir is nothing less than the greatest advance in petrol-fuelled piston engines since Daimler-Benz came up with fuel injection for the Messerschmitt Me109 fighter aircraft. Some of the motor industry’s biggest brains have been trying for years to devise a way of opening an engine’s valves by some means other than a mechanically acting camshaft, hoping to achieve variability of valve timing and lift beyond anything so far coaxed out of a camshaft and tappets. MultiAir has got there.

Slightly more detail on the new Giulietta via evo mag

2009-12-11T01:05:00.001Z

Alfa Romeo Giulietta | Car News | Hot Hatchbacks | evo

There had been some mystery about its successor, which was set to be called the Milano but had its press release pulled a week ago as Alfa scurried away and changed the name to Giulietta.

147-replacement Milano-to-be turns out to be Giulietta Mark 3

2009-12-09T05:27:00.001Z

Alfa Giulietta: Italy’s new Golf rival

Alfa Romeo has unveiled its all-new replacement for the 147 small car, the Giulietta that reaches Australia in 2010.

8C Spider reviewed

2009-09-18T04:30:00.001Z

Mostly reasonable and fair-minded review of Alfa's 8C Spider at the Financial Times.

Alfa to unleash a MiTo Cloverleaf version? Hope so

2009-09-09T00:49:00.001Z

Legend returns on MiTo | Auto Express News | News | Auto Express

It looks as if Alfa fans are in for a spot of luck. The Italian firm has announced the latest driver-focused version of its MiTo hatchback, the Cloverleaf.

Car magazine briefly notes the 159 and its engines

2009-09-03T06:37:00.001Z

Read it here. No analysis, just the facts. More depth soon, perhaps?

A nice crop of racing Alfas.. and the odd interloper

2009-09-03T06:21:00.001Z

Just stumbled over this nice link to US track cars, excellent pics, classic Alfas and more...

Alfa Romeos to be rebadged as Dodges? And vice-versa?

2009-09-03T06:02:00.002Z

I guess it's possible, but does it make any sense? Perhaps they will share parts and platforms only?

It's not something I'd get worked up about. If they were close enough design-wise and the Dodge was cheaper I'd buy the Dodge and stick Alfa badges on it...

Slightly more on the new 159 1750 'Berlina'

2009-09-03T05:54:00.001Z

A link from India on the new Berlina 1750.

Alfa 169 goes Canadian, based on Chrysler 200C

2009-09-03T05:43:00.001Z

As I said before, it all makes good practical sense.. now tell me, what did the "Alfa Romeo - Milano" label once mean?

Jeep Cherokee to become Alfa CXover/A? Yeeeech

2009-09-03T05:35:00.002Z

It makes sense to grow a brand, it makes sense to share components. But an Alfa-ised Jeep Cherokee? Oh puke! Please let this not happen...

The devil's work... Top Gear and the 147GTA Autodelta 328

2009-08-14T04:44:00.001Z

It's a bit of fun, isn't it?? At least whilst we still have petrol, anyway.

Another GTA....! The 8c GTA, no less!

2009-08-12T05:52:00.002Z

Well this is worth a read, although it's waaay out of my price range and it won't be the greenest car around. "Following in the footsteps of the 1965 Giulia Sprint GTA, it’s a model designed to blur the lines between a no-compromise race car and a comfort-oriented road machine. Alfa has cut no corners: the new vehicle is the most extreme to leave the factory gates."

The Berlina 1750 is back.. although it's called a 159 turbo

2009-08-12T05:49:00.002Z

Can't say I really miss the Berlina, but the 2.0l did move pretty well for a medium sedan... well now the 1750 moniker is back, but on a 159 instead of the Berlina... or so they say.

No surprises really

2009-08-05T06:21:00.001Z

Some videos... the 147 replacement is the Milano. And the MiTo GTA is still "go", despite rumours.

Why do motoring journos "love" Alfas yet put them down? Habit? Deeper psychological need?

2009-05-06T00:14:00.004Z

I don't really understand why this happens, and it's so common it's almost universal:

The 159 came here in 2006 sans not only the automatic transmission option — crucial these days if you’re serious about attracting more than a few hundred punters (such as myself) — but also the refinement, efficiency, performance and various other things hoped for by those of us who, against all reason, hold Alfa Romeo in some regard.

Agreed, I prefer a manual too, but many people like the auto (presumably for reasons of simplicity, reliability, lowered skill requirement and/or laziness I guess). But why say that it's "against all reason" to hold Alfa Romeo in some regard? It gets repeated so many times that it's become viral, something that many people repeat, even if they have no personal experience with the brand.

It must be part of that psychological imperative to label things again. Oh, and manuals are (arguably) simpler to make and repair and generally offer more car control with lower fuel consumption. As long as you use them properly. It all goes out the window with EVs anyway so let's not bother arguing about it.

How the world has changed. Another take on that Alfa GTV6 brochure #images

2009-04-30T02:04:00.001Z

Alfa GTV6_brochure_058a
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

I just realised, of course, that the classy driver is in fact a classy passenger patiently waiting for that adventurous pilot/husband/boyfriend of hers to finish with the flying, already, and take her to that trendy restaurant featured elsewhere in the brochure.

I suspect Alfa's marketing is a bit sharper now. I remember it used to tagged with "the line, the style, the power". At least that stuck in my head. I have no idea what tag line they use now, so they aren't reaching me, anyway. And I'm probably in the target market.

In hindsight, a faintly hilarious Alfa GTV6 brochure, circa 1982

2009-04-30T01:54:00.001Z

Alfa GTV6_brochure_060
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

Ah, nostalgia. This brochure is a hoot in many ways, if you want to look at it like that... but it was a serious marketing effort at the time. Alfa Romeo was spinning a tale here, of a car that races the wind, overtaking lesser cars at will. One loses count indeed. It reads like a poor translation from the Italian in parts, giving the impression that the car was actually built for classy women with a penchant for upmarket, trendy restaurants and hooning. I suspect that after she leaves the airfield she completes some nice circle work before drifting into the sunset. Or it could just be my imagination.

As a side note, although I vaguely knew GTVs existed, I saw my first one in the flesh, so to speak at Camden Aerodrome, Sydney, whilst awaiting a flight in a glider. It struck me then as a car that had style, and that I wanted to own. It was the very early 1980s. Maybe there's some truth in this Alfa + flying demographic.

ALFA RL SPORT e Super Sport

2009-04-30T01:43:00.001Z

ALFA RL SPORT e SS_049
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

I've owned several Alfas and along the way have collected bits and pieces... including this set of old ALFA drawings in a red folder. It came from a dealer, when I bought my Giulietta, so I assume as promotional material Alfa was releasing it for everyone's edification.... including yours, if you choose to look.

I can't believe I'm testing another aggregator... Posterous, anyone?

2009-04-16T04:14:00.001Z

Here we go again... another post-once, post-to-many service. At first
glance it's slick, but without the finer control of some:
http://posterous.com/

Posted via email from gtveloce's posterous

200BHP from what size engine?

2009-04-15T00:43:00.003Z

I did read this right, didn't I?

Starting from April 2009, the new 159 will be available with a brand new engine: a 1750 cc turbocharged petrol engine that conforms to Euro 5 standards and develops 200 HP between 4,750 and 5,500 rpm with 320 Nm of torque at only 1,400 rpm.

Of course it's turbocharged, but it's still a long way from the standard 1750 of yore. The 1962cc twin cam, twin carbed GTV in my garage only has 130BHP. And that was considered pretty good, if not absolutely amazing, not so far back. I do like acceleration, but do we we need this much power? Or will the 159 be made of lead and concrete?

LeMons, as in lemons. Just a bit of fun with a $239 car

2009-04-09T03:40:00.002Z

It's what they are for, I guess: driving, and racing. If it moves, a human will race it.

one of the participants is Charleston-based “Team Dog Ciao” – get it? it sounds like “dog chow?” – driving a 1974 Alfa Romeo Spyder.

When the cheap oil is all gone I think we'll still be doing this - racing cars. And this grass-roots racing is much more interesting than that F1 circus money-go-round.

Kissinger said what? Oh, FIAT and Chrysler again

2009-04-09T01:03:00.003Z

FIAT and the US car makers. It has a tail a mile long and it's a tale worth telling, but let's hear from Henry first:
Even Henry Kissinger spoked about a “very good wedding, a perfect alliance between two firms very different from each other but at the same time complementary”.

I thought Ford looked shakiest 2 years ago, but GM has out-done them by going closest to the edge and looking deep, deep into the void. Let's not forget that GM did a tie-up with FIAT, too, that cost them a packet to get out of. And now sick and sorry Chrysler, having failed to make merry with Daimler Benz, is looking for FIAT for salvation. My guess is that FIAT will get more out of this deal than Chrysler.

I think they meant to say...

2009-04-09T00:50:00.003Z

You just have to read this translation, presumably from Ancient Latin to early Sanskrit... the pics are worth it, too:

Earlier this year, Alfa Romeo announced that in observance of the 46th anniversary of the Registro Italiano Alfa Romeo or ‘RIAR’ for small, it would start off a particular number form of the MiTo that would be produced in a bare 46 examples for the members of the supranational cudgel. RIAR has at present started to receive orders from its members for the circumscribed sprint MiTo that is powered near a 155HP 1.4-liter Turbo engine.

Launceston's 1923 RLSS runs just twice a year - and it did so yesterday

2009-04-09T00:40:00.002Z

A famous car in a nice spot...

A RARE 1923 Alfa Romeo RL Super Sport was the centre of attention yesterday as it was driven around the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery car park, Launceston. QVMAG curator of history Jon Addison said that the car was one of only five remaining in the world. This was the first time the Alfa had been driven for about two years, but it is started twice a year as part of its regular maintenance program.

It's a bit like my '82 GTV, which also seems to run just twice a year (oh, OK, maybe 6 or 7 times a year).

How to sit in a car and drive it

2009-04-09T00:17:00.003Z

It's really quite simple. To control a car properly you need to be close enough to the pedals to easily and quickly operate them, and close enough to brace yourself (with the footrest and your knees) when cornering. Which is quite close. Indeed, it means your legs are splayed and braced against the door and the centre console. If they are too straight you cannot brace and will be unrestrained in a corner. Instead you will roll from side to side.

Now you also need to control the steering wheel, so you need to be quite close to that, too. Forget the straight-armed F1 look from the 1940s and 50s, that may look cool - or stupid - but it doesn't give you leverage on the wheel. So you should be close to the steering wheel with legs splayed. You'll find that position is perfectly attainable in most cars but especially so in older Alfa Romeos. They are made to be driven.

However apparently most people prefer to keep their legs straight, and older Alfas typically don't allow that as an option, at least not if you are taller than about 5feet eight inches or 180cm, whichever comes first. Which is why we get silly comments from car reviewers who don't understand how to actually drive a car:

Sit inside the 147 and the memories of Italianate driving positions that we grew up with in Alfasuds and Giuliettas are banished forever. Seat, pedals, steering wheel, gearstick and mirrors all appear to be positioned around an anthropomorphic figure of a human being rather than a gibbon (as was the case with the old 145).

One day a 'reviewer' will actually seek to explain this, rather than just expose their personal misunderstanding.

Renault and Alfa... from the distant past

2009-03-31T05:34:00.003Z

Whilst contemplating FIAT "buying" 35% of the disabled Chrysler I stumbled over an interesting previous arrangement that Alfa (now owned by FIAT) had with Regie Renault: The 8 design looks very similar to the Alfa Romeo front-wheel drive prototype tipo 103[1] (1960), because Alfa Romeo and Renault had a business relationship in the 1950s and 1960s. Renault was marketing Alfa Romeo cars and Alfa Romeo was building the Renault Dauphine (1959–1964), Ondine (an up-market version of the Dauphine) (1961–1962) and R4 (1962–1964) under license in Italy. In total 70,502 Dauphine/Ondine and 41,809 R4's were built by Alfa Romeo.[1]

If I knew that, I'd forgotten it! I do remember the Alfa and Nissan (ie ARNA) tie-up, and the FIAT and GM deal (that FIAT drew most benefit from, methinks.)

Nice Mito review - but otherwise rubbish

2009-03-31T02:24:00.002Z

Nice review of the sensibly-sized 1.4l Mito Benzina but why do they ruin it with unsubstantiated generalisations like this:Take a look at the 2300B and 2900B tourers from the Thirties to see what I mean. It had another brilliant run in the Sixties with its production car-based GTAs, but it all went wrong in the Seventies, Eighties and Nineties. Alfas weren't pretty any more. In fact, to be honest, they were rubbish.

All of the '70s Bertone-bodied cars, the Spiders, the Alfasud, the sleek Alfasud Sprint, the lovely Alfettas (especially the GT and GTVs)... to call them all rubbish says that this writer has (a) no idea and (b) will write anything just to stir things up. Add on top of that the GTV6, the 164, the 156, the 147... sure they had some duds, too, but they were never as bad as the press made out (unless they completely rusted away, which admittedly did happen at times).

It would have been a decent read, otherwise.

Alfa 159 gets a refresh

2009-03-04T23:31:00.001Z

Sales down, Alfa resorts to crisper sheetmetal.. Of all the cars in the world, the Alfa 159 is one of the last we would have thought needed a refresh. Unfortunately, the sedan's styling hasn't translated into a market success for the Italian automaker, so they've opted for a facelift. Thankfully they haven't messed with the near perfection of the 159's lines too much, sharpening up the already razor-sharp lines in the hope that the updated 159 will help the brand hold down the C-segment in Europe until the Giulia that's set to replace it rolls around late next year.

Chrysler? Some goss on what FIAT and Alfa are planning...

2009-03-04T04:59:00.002Z

Oh dear. Maybe this Chrysler deal is for real.

Testing of the Milano is in its final stages ahead of a launch at Geneva in 2010. This prototype, snapped recently, appears to have a stubby gearlever. It carries an AMT designation on a window sticker, which refers to a dual-clutch transmission that Alfa is developing. Documentation released recently by Chrysler to support its claim for funds from the US government lists dual-clutch transmissions as one of the technologies it is hoping to ‘borrow’ from the Fiat Group. The Milano is also understood to be based on an all-new platform, rather than a highly modified Bravo chassis. Alfa’s replacement for the 159, the Giulia, will be built on a long-wheelbase version of the platform. It is due in late 2011. Chrysler’s planning document suggests that Alfa’s 166 flagship will make a comeback as a platform variant of the rear-drive 300C, a car based on the mid-1990s Mercedes W210 E-Class.

OK, so Milano replaces the 147, the Giulia replaces the 159 and the 166 comes back from the dead based on the ugliest block of metal on the planet (OK, maybe the Nitro is worse) the 300C. I'm definitely not in that market, anyway!

New from Alfa - "multair" electro-hydraulic valves for "Milano"

2009-03-04T04:55:00.002Z

Well it may not be totally new in concept, but at least FIAT is trying to pack as much efficiency into its petrol engines as it can... Alfa Romeo will pave the way for a major overhaul of its range in 2010 and 2011 by revealing its Multiair direct-injection petrol engines at the Geneva show. The Multiair units will be seen first in next year’s replacement for the 147 hatch, due to take on the name Milano.

So the new 147 will be called "Milano"? As in an Alfa 75-replacement? We shall see.

Some MiTo GTA pics

2009-03-04T04:48:00.001Z

Worth a look if you like small, hot cars... MiTo GTA.

Ahh thatt's better - small and almost affordable

2009-03-04T04:22:00.001Z

Phew.

Externally, the Veloce can be distinguished by red brake callipers, a rear spoiler, a sports rear bumper with an air-extractor, and exclusive 17-inch alloys. And you can distinguish the 155 version from the fact that it is probably pulling away from you. Press the DNA button forward and wait for Dynamic to kick in - it's not instant - and you can feel the revs change as the throttle-response is re-geared, as if a miniature after-burner has been ignited. And the thing is, you know it's meant to feel that way. Compared to, say, the VW Polo, which is first and foremost a rather passive city car beefed up for the GTi version, the Alfa Romeo Mita strikes you as having been born a 155 Veloce, and then developed into milder versions to satisfy a compliance officer in his small, germ-free, risk-assessed office somewhere in the corner of the factory. I guess the lesser models are for regular blood-donors - you would have to be a few pints short not to choose the 155.

Skip the GTA, go for the MiTo Veloce 155 then?

Well it looks great but how much will it cost??

2009-03-04T04:15:00.002Z

I'm not sure my budget will stretch this far....

The cover has finally come off of Alfa Romeo's hyper hot hatch. The high-performance Mito GTA concept will take the stage in Geneva with aggressive styling, less weight, a stiffer suspension, and 240 horsepower.

Driven - Alfa GTV V6

2009-02-05T05:25:00.001Z

Have I shared this one already? It's worth watching over and over...

My '82 GTV with '84 interior

2008-11-11T22:31:00.001Z

82 GTV with 84 interior_0516
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

Never looked inside an '82 GTV? Note that this car is half an '82 (the tan) and half an '84 (the black) inside! Note also Alfa's faux Recaro 'mesh' seats (the originals had a laminated wooden headrest - you'd know them if you saw them). Also worth pointing out are the round window winders in the back - not levers.

More 149 pics

2008-10-16T23:15:00.000Z

Click and follow to find more pics on the 147 replacement... Feast your eyes on Alfa's brand new hatch! This is how the sensational 149 - a direct rival to Ford's Focus - is shaping up. Based on the same platform as the Fiat Bravo and Lancia Delta, the replacement for the 147 will blend the raw beauty of the 8C Competizione with the style of the MiTo in a larger, family-sized package. The front end's generous curves and circular headlamps take their inspiration from the MiTo, while the sharp, arrow-like nose and deep Alfa shield grille are borrowed from the 8C Competizione.

Nice car, shame about the spelling

2008-10-13T03:52:00.000Z

Why is it so hard to spell 'ALFA' correctly?

The Alpha 156 is as much a sports model as family car. The Italian maker seems incapable of designing one that's mere transport, injecting a special flavour into even machines that would be built as “ordinary” cars by others.

Alfa Romeo GTV6 2.8L

2008-10-12T22:31:00.001Z

Wow. Yuck. Amazing. Awful. Great. I can't decide. One thing for sure - it would give me a headache sitting in it.

GTV 6 with straight pipes - part 2

2008-10-12T22:27:00.001Z

It looks great, sounds wonderful. I'm sure it's also immense fun to drive... but I'd be worried, tense and anxious about what type of day the police officer has had just before they pull me over for an illegal exhaust...

GTV6 with straight-out-the-side pipes

2008-10-12T22:24:00.001Z

Dreadful to live near, sounds wonderful; but surely this is a car no police officer could resist pulling over?

New 149 has that 8c look...

2008-10-09T05:53:00.001Z

Rounded, swoopy, with big round headlights. It's a hatch. The new 147 is looking good.... and may get a classy name: Some rumors speak of an alternative name, "Giulia", at 149

Now there will be a Chinese Alfa?

2008-10-09T05:45:00.001Z

Does it matter where it's made? Probably not. It just doesn't sound as traditional somehow. Unless we dig back to Marco Polo - now there's a link.

Alfa in China will make its 166, a difficult thing for Alfa fans to digest even though the 166 hasn’t had shades of brilliance throughout its long career. The car will be manufactured by Guangzhou Auto, a Fiat and Nanjing partner in Perla production (derived from the world car Palio and Siena ed Albea project).

My GTV has a battery in the boot

2008-09-12T03:44:00.001Z

GTV 116 boot_0147
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

Want to improve weight distribution? Run out of room in your engine bay? Want to run a long wire to your boot but didn't have a good reason to do so? Well the Alfa GTV Tipo 116 got the 'battery in the boot' treatment whenever aria condizionata was added... and that's why the battery is in the boot. It's got a nice bit of stiffened carpet to cover it, just pulled away in this shot. That's the fuel feed pipe just to the right of the battery, btw.

And yes, you can still put a bike in there, just take the wheels off first.

The headlamp how-to: the screw that holds it together

2008-07-25T04:36:00.002Z

GTV-the screw that holds_0672
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

There are 3 screws, 2 of which aim the lamp. The screw near my hand (ie top and inside) holds the lamp in place. The outer top and lower screws adjust the beam, so don't move 'em, or if you must move 'em at least count your turns accurately and screw them back the same number. A spring clip also holds the outer, top adjusting screw in place. Yes, you must unclip that. You then pivot the unit gently out from the body and up. There's a "prong" on the unit that fits into a hole behind the lower screw. It locates the headlamp unit in place. Job done!

The GTV headlight unit

2008-07-25T04:35:00.002Z

GTV-headlight unit_0671
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

OK, I got it out and got the rubber boot off as well. The boot was tough to shift and I was worried about tearing the "tabs" that I pulled on. Make sure it goes back on properly, to keep the weather out.

3 screws matter. Top left screw (left as in the picture) holds everything in place. Top right adjusts (or aims, if you prefer) the headlamp, as does the bottom screw. Don't move these, or if you do ensure you set then as they were. There's a clip on the top-right screw that holds the lamp. And the bottom screw conceals a hole into which the lamp unit sits via a locating "prong".

It's the lowbeam that blew, the centre single-spade connector. The other connector is for the parking light. I changed that 10 years ago so it should be fine ;-)

The 116 that blew a headlamp

2008-07-25T04:34:00.002Z

GTV-removing headlight_0673
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

Just before annual registration time, of course. It's a common and simple task, really, but also it's the first time in 10 years So I had to remember all over again how to do it... it's clear that you can't access it from behind, so it must come off from the front.

So here are a few pics on the subject of removing and replacing a 1982 GTV (Aussie spec) halogen headlamp. Bear in mind this is a low beam unit with parking light - not a sealed beam. I think the sealed beam unit fits on and is aimed in the same way though.

How it was...Catalina Park rallycross in the '70s

2008-07-22T23:36:00.001Z

A different scene from the deserted, disused track it is today... funnily enough I like it better as it is now!

A lap around Catalina Park

2008-07-22T22:57:00.001Z

An interesting lap around an overgrown Catalina Park as it is today, unfortunately going the wrong way...

Alfa Giulietta 2 1981

2008-07-16T22:58:00.001Z

Alfa Giulietta 2 81
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

This just keeps bringing back memories. What a great car the Giulietta was... barely different from the Alfetta sedan, sort of a wedge-shaped interpretation of the 116 platform. Not quite an Alfetta, not yet a GTV. In between. If I collected Alfas in a parallel fashion (rather than serially) I'd have one of these again. (But not the plastic-coated 2.0 version.)

Interesting but full of rubbish

2008-07-16T04:39:00.002Z

The Mi.To looks great, and is at long last the right size: ie, not a luxo-barge. There's an interesting read behind this link:Martinelli left F1 at the end of 2006, specifically to head up Fiat’s engine department. As such, he’s had a winning hand in Alfa Romeo’s new peach of a petrol plant, a lively lag-less little 16-valve 1.4-litre turbo that also does duty in the Fiat Grande Punto and Bravo, albeit with 4 kW less than Alfa’s 114.

Just beware, it's full of idle rubbish like: Let’s face it: Alfa is not what it used to be. With the exception of the 159, 156, Giulietta and a handful of Quadrifoglio or GTA models, the brand has sadly been scarred over the last 30 years by a long and steady decline.

Obviously not a fan of the amazing Alfasud sedan, ti and Sprint Veloce, the wolf-in-sheep's clothing Alfetta sedan, the Alfetta GT and GTV, the GTV6, the lovely Nuovo Giulietta, the 75 (AKA Milano), the 33ti or almost anything since! OK, the ARNA was a bit sad, and the 145 wasn't all that it could have been, but honestly...! ALFA Romeo must surely wonder what they have to do... isn't the latest crop, the 147, 156, 159 and Brera enough?

Apparently not. Most shocking of all was to find that Alfa had gone soft since its brief mid-’90s renaissance. Steering got dopey, gearchanges sloppy and ride mushy.. "Dopey" steering must refer to the 147's turning circle, not sure what else it could be. Sloppy gearchanges? Has this guy driven a rear-transmission Alfa? That is sloppy. And a mushy ride? Alfas soak up the bumps, and roll. Not as bad a French car, but obviously so. Only the hardened-edge of the GTAs truly eliminates the bodyroll and high-speed comfort of the classic Alfa. Yet they still run fast and corner hard. That is the essence of it.

I can remember swapping from a stiff-as-a-post Ford Escort with "Rally Pack" to a stock 1982 Giulietta and being amazed at the body roll. It put me off until I realised I was going 5-10kmh faster around sharp corners in the dry, twice that in the wet -and much faster again over bumpy roads that I had previously had to slow down on... simply a better suspension setup.

Yet most people when given a car to drive are clots and clods with no finesse and can't see or feel what they have... which is why we shouldn't trust anyone else's opinion, certainly not mine, just your own.

It's been done before but here we go again

2008-07-16T04:25:00.002Z

Maybe this will work? Sharing some components with BMW's MINI makes sense, in fact it's high time the car industry woke up and realised it needs to rationalise all of the wasteful duplication of components, including engines. Some 'sharing' goes on at the supplier level already, and some also happens within a multi-brand company - Ford switchgear in an Aston, for example, or various components shared between VW Group products. But it needs to grow much faster in order to cut out waste and remove the carbon emissions that plague this industry.

WHAT do you get if you cross a Mini with an Alfa Romeo? No it's not a joke, Mini owner BMW really is joining forces with Alfa Romeo maker Fiat to build cars together.

We just don't want another ARNA debacle, Alfa Romeo ;-)

Under the rear: my GTV

2008-06-14T04:39:00.001Z

GTV_a006
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

My all-time 3rd most popular photo on Flickr! And it's just the rear end of a production coupe... not a supercar or something rare at all.

Anyway it's a look underneath my 1982 Alfetta GTV showing the rear mounted transaxle, de Dion tube, Watts linkage and inboard disc brakes. Most cars of course don't have de Dion tubes, so that's a bit special. The Watts linkage is more common. The rear mounted transmission is much more rare and gives the car better weight distribution (ie 50:50) and a polar moment of inertia that lends the car stability rather than twitchiness.

The inboard brakes are also unusual on a road car, but were an Alfa specialty in the late 70s and throughout the 80s, both with their rear and front drive cars. On this car it meant that even the rears could overheat a tad on mountain descents... but OTOH the rear wheels didn't have to carry the extra unsprung weight so an Alfetta could menace much more powerful cars around corners. (The Alfasud from this era had inboard front brakes, which probably worked better than the Alfetta's rear brake arrangement and helped to make the 'Sud a great handler - but suffered from the occasional accidental ill-placed drop of engine oil... ooops.)

There's an Alfa in here somewhere

2008-06-10T00:57:00.002Z

RACING ALFA Romeo VELOCE In Car - HILL CLIMB RITSONA 2007

2008-06-07T08:53:00.001Z

Well my 2 year old son likes it...

Alfa Giulietta 1.8 at Oran Park, '82

2008-06-04T03:45:00.001Z

Alfa Giulietta 2 Oran Pk 82
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

My Giulietta at Oran Park, NSW, Australia in 1982. Nice understeer... It's an Alfa Romeo Owners' Club event, probably a lap dash. If you don't know BP corner then you haven't lived. Basically you come hurtling out of some fast bends, go down into a ditch, come up and go hard left into a long straight. So you've picked up some speed, bottomed and released the suspension and then chucked it left into understeer territory. You can see how the rear wheels remain planted square to the road by the deDion tube and the fronts are trying to get the car around the bend... and not into the wall.

Once out of BP you pick up speed (on the GP circuit) and the 1.8 litre Giulietta was good for 160km/hr (in my hands) by the kink. Then hard braking, hard left, mind the concrete wall all over again and into the twisties.

The interior of a 116 GTV

2008-05-15T23:16:00.001Z

a004
Originally uploaded by gtveloce

There's a bit of cheating here - it's an '82 2.0 GTV with tan interior but with an '84 model's chocolate faux-Recaro "mesh" seats and side panels in the doors. The original seats had headrests on a sliding laminated wooden "slat" - you'd know it if you saw it! Anyway these seats have the "mesh" insert into the headrest. It's a Momo steering wheel seen here of course, but the car came with a wooden-rimmed example that was just too large (but made turning effort more manageable). The leather gear knob is Momo as well, replacing the chunky wooden number so many Alfas had back then...

Alfa Romeo P3 wins GP, parks in Croydon

2008-04-08T23:57:00.003Z

A startling little story about a car that should be in a museum but has been restored in NZ and is being 'looked after' in Australia..This month Mr Anderson, a plumber by trade, was asked to look after a 1932 Alfa Romeo, a car which once dominated racing, winning 28 Grand Prix races including the 1932 Italian, French and German Grands Prix. The slim-line eight-cylinder car, which carries a price tag of $4 million, was once road tested by a young Enzo Ferrari before he went on to form the company which bore his name. Mr Anderson has been keeping the vintage car, owned by British millionaire Peter Giddings, finetuned for demonstrations at this year's Grand Prix and Phillip Island races, with a last appearance scheduled at next month's Historic Winton race in Benalla.

It looks like a P3, and the description fits, so I'll assume that to be the case. More on the P3 here:
The P3 was first genuine single seater racing car, and was powered by a supercharged eight cylinder engine. The whole car weight just over 1,500 lb (680 kg), very light for the period. Had it not been for the engine block being cast in iron the car would have been even lighter. The P3 was introduced in June 1932, halfway through the European season, winning its first race at the hands of Tazio Nuvolari, and going on to win 6 races that year driven by both Nuvolari and Rudolf Caracciola, including all 3 major Grands Prix in Italy, France and Germany. 1933 brought financial difficulties to Alfa Corse so the cars were simply locked away and Alfa attempted to rest on their laurels. Enzo Ferrari had to run his breakaway 'works' Alfa team as Scuderia Ferrari, using the older, less effective Alfa Monzas. Alfa prevaricated until August and missed the first 25 events, and only after much wrangling was the P3 finally handed over to Scuderia Ferrari. P3s then won six of the final 11 events of the season including the final 2 major Grands Prix in Italy and Spain.