Jeremy Clarkson described the 8C as "the most beautiful car ever made," though its dynamic flaws have always been acknowledged, starting with its 6-speed sequential robotized gearbox and a setup that fell short of expectations. This isn’t your regular 8C Competizione; this one features an “M” badge, which stands for Manual, as it has been converted by Officine Fioravanti to include a manual transmission, enhancing its performance to match its timeless design.
In addition to the manual transmission, Officine Fioravanti has made several impressive upgrades. The vehicle now boasts integrated management electronics with new systems, ensuring a more refined driving experience. It features a new setup with electronically controlled, adjustable Öhlins suspension, which enhances ride quality and handling. The carbon-ceramic braking system improves stopping power and reduces weight, further elevating performance.
The interior has not been overlooked either; the car now includes carbon fiber monocoque seats with FIA approval, developed in collaboration with LMT - Laboratori Meccanica Torino, which improves both comfort and driving position. A significant reduction in vehicle weight has also been achieved, and a new engine calibration has unleashed even more power, making this version of the 8C Competizione truly exceptional.
To fully appreciate what makes the 8C Competizione remarkable, let's take a look back at its roots. This super sports car's design echoes the unforgettable 33 Stradale. Operating on the successful transaxle principle, it features a front engine paired with rear-wheel transmission and drive. The Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione was first presented as a concept car at the 60th IAA in Frankfurt in 2003, where it received immediate acclaim. Both experts and fans were thrilled to see Alfa Romeo showcasing a rear-wheel-drive vehicle once again. Its subtle, elegant lines, inspired by the stunning 33 Stradale designed by Scaglione, enhance the refined beauty of this concept car.
In 2007, Alfa Romeo's management decided to produce just 500 units of the vehicle, all of which were sold even before production began. Assembly of this jewel takes place at the Maserati facility in Modena, where the 4C would later also be produced.
The 8C Competizione embodies the best of Italian tradition in sports and racing cars. Collaborating with Dallara on the chassis, Alfa Romeo utilized Brembo for the F1-style braking system and Sparco for the carbon seats. The finishing touch is the engine, based on a Ferrari design. Under the hood, a V8 engine produces 450 horsepower, enabling the 8C Competizione to reach speeds of 300 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4 seconds.
Following the traditional transaxle layout of the Alfetta and Alfa 75, the engine is mounted longitudinally at the front. However, the transmission and drive components are located at the rear, ensuring perfect weight distribution. The six-speed sequential automatic transmission is integrated with a locking differential, and shifting is done using paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, reminiscent of Formula 1.
The chassis is constructed from composite materials, including aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber. The lightweight body, as well as part of the interior, is made from carbon fiber. The entire suspension is designed as a double wishbone setup, with Brembo's carbon-ceramic brakes providing top-notch performance.
The name of the car carries echoes of glorious moments from the past: the "8C" designation was used for victorious vehicles featuring 8-cylinder inline engines designed by Vittorio Jano, which achieved numerous victories in the Mille Miglia from the 1930s and won Le Mans four times in a row. The "Competizione" moniker pays homage to the 6C 2500 Competizione, in which J.M. Fangio secured third place at the 1950 Mille Miglia.
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