Alfa Romeo will mark its centennial this August at Pebble Beach, where it is a featured marque at the Concours d’Elegance. Rumors are saying that the company will be unveiling the 4C, a compact, lightweight sports car concept, during this event.According to an insider from Fiat’s headquarters, the 8C has had much success but that what they need right now is a follow-up model that’s more affordable and can attract a wider customer base. It’s believed that the 4C will not be built using high-end materials like carbon fiber and it certainly will not be equipped with a Ferrari-built engine.
Rather, the 4C is expected to be fitted with a highly tuned, 250-hp four-cylinder, which could be coupled with a rear transaxle as in the 8C. It is probable that instead of 500 units, there will be 5,000 examples made of this model. It is also believed that the roadster will be followed by a coupe (or vice versa) and that prices would start from $70,000 (€50,000).
The Alfisti in America doesn’t appear to be longstanding and it could cut the excitement for the 4C. The partnership between Alfa/Lancia and Chrysler can’t exactly be considered a smooth one.
And unfortunately, the crudely badge-engineered Chrysler (Lancia) Delta that was showcased at the Detroit Auto Show failed to impress. US fans of the Alfa Romeo would have to wait some time for the final decision on whether it will return to North America. Last January, Fiat chairman Sergio Marchionne had said that the earliest that the decision will be made is within a year.
[via automobilemag]
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