Alfa Romeo 4C Narrowly Avoids The Ton

Derek Kreindler
by Derek Kreindler

We all knew that the Alfa Romeo 4C was going to be light, but the recently announced curb (looks like it’s the dry weight) weight of 1969 lbs is unprecedentedly svelte in this era. That’s the same weight as a Lotus Elise or a Volkswagen Up! That 237 horsepower turbo 4-cylinder doesn’t seem so puny anymore, does it?

The carbon monocoque being used by McLaren weighs in at a mere 143 lbs – less than the average adult male. Other tricks like thinner glass and special plastic for the front and rear bumpers also help trim weight. Best of all, the car’s bodywork and monocoque are impervious to corrosion, so if you’re a special grade of crazy (or brave), only a set of snow tires stands between you and winter driving. How about a ski rack mounted over the rear, like James Bond’s Lotus Esprit?

On the performance front, Alfa Romeo is said to be expecting a 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds – a few tenths quicker than a PDK-equipped Porsche Cayman S, which weighs 880 lbs more and has 88 more horsepower. Unlike other Alfas, the 4C gets a 25 mile shakedown to ensure everything functions properly prior to delivery. Leave your best reliability joke in the comments.

Derek Kreindler
Derek Kreindler

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  • GTAm GTAm on Jun 12, 2013

    With Carbon fibre and many compsoite parts at least we know it won't rust ;)

  • AMC_CJ AMC_CJ on Jun 12, 2013

    I want this car...... but will probably have to wait ten years and pick up a used one. Hope to God a few still haven't fallen to complete pieces by then.

    • Corey Lewis Corey Lewis on Jun 12, 2013

      On the contrary, they'll all be snapped up and stored in heated garages next to all those GNX's. They'll have close to zero miles and command sky-high prices. All will be red/black/yellow. All will have vanity plates. All of this will take place 10 years from now, during which we will have seen Alfa re-pulled from the American market.

  • Danio3834 Danio3834 on Jun 12, 2013

    This Alfa will be Alpha.

  • Icemilkcoffee Icemilkcoffee on Jun 12, 2013

    Just beautiful. Under 2000lb.s is the magically demarcation point. Even humble FWD cars become fun to drive when they are at this weight.

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