2014 Alfa Romeo 4C Coupe

The production 4C's cosmetics vary little from the concept seen at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, retaining the show car's sculptural drama, mastery of volume and light, and the bandy proportions. The jet -fighter canopy, wasp -tailed rear glass engine cover, the taut bum with kicked up integrated spoiler. The Alfa Romeo 4C Concept was voted the 'Most Beautiful Concept Car of the Year' award by the readers of German magazine Auto Bild.

The return of Alfa Romeo to the 'U.S. market' will take place in late 2014 when the 4C goes on sale. It is a mid-engine, rear wheel drive, carbon-chassis Italian exotic, with significant turbo boost and large Brembo brakes. What you are looking at is a two -seat coupe with a transverse-mid-mounted, turbocharged 1,742cc direct -injection four -cylinder engine with 240 horsepower, paired with six -speed twin dry -clutch transmission; non-assisted rack-and-pinion steering; an open rear differential, and a U.S.-spec curb weight of 2,465 pounds. The 4C achieves 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 160 mph.

The 4C's ultralight specs are largely thanks to its segment-exclusive carbon-fiber monocoque, which is made at horrific expense. With its specialized carbon architecture, the 4C isn't much different than our run-of-the-mill McLaren. The front suspension wishbones attach directly to the carbon tub, while the Alfa's rear struts connect to the aluminum sub frame. The resultant weight distribution is 38% on the front and 62% on the rear axle.