Alfa 8C Spider: The Showstopper, Sans Cliche

The word "showstopper" is used too frequently by lazy journalists, but in some cases it is genuinely true. A case in point is the new Spider version of Alfa Romeo’s stunning 8C Competizione, which had its world debut at the Geneva motor show.

Despite the fact that production will be limited to just 500 units, and the first customer car won’t roll off the line for the better part of two years, the unveiling of this new model truly was a show-stopping moment.

Under the hood is the same 4.7-liter 450-hp V-8 that’s in the coupe. Power is channelled through a six-speed paddleshift gearbox to the rear wheels. The Brembo brakes are carbon-ceramic, measuring 15 inches in diameter at the front wheels and 14.2 inches at the rear. The whole package rides on 20-inch alloy wheels.

The Gran Turismo machine has been created by the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo. The convertible roof is made from two layers of fabric, and folds back at the touch of a dashboard-mounted button. The outer layer is designed to protect the occupants from the elements, the inner layer is key to sound-proofing. The top can be personalized in various colors to suit the finish of the vehicle.

Inside, composite materials have been used to create the hi-tech performance-oriented cabin, while the sports seats are made from carbon fiber.
Prices have yet to be announced, but will be slightly higher than the coupe.--Richard Yarrow Enlarge PhotoThe word "showstopper" is used too frequently by lazy journalists, but in some cases it is genuinely true. A case in point is the new Spider version of Alfa Romeo’s stunning 8C Competizione, which had its world debut at the Geneva motor show. Despite the fact that production will be limited to just 500 units, and the first customer car won’t roll off the line for the better part of two years, the unveiling of this new model truly was a show-stopping moment. Under the hood is the same 4.7-liter 450-hp V-8 that’s in the coupe. Power is channelled through a six-speed paddleshift gearbox to the rear wheels. The Brembo brakes are carbon-ceramic, measuring 15 inches in diameter at the front wheels and 14.2 inches at the rear. The whole package rides on 20-inch alloy wheels. The Gran Turismo machine has been created by the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo. The convertible roof is made from two layers of fabric, and folds back at the touch of a dashboard-mounted button. The outer layer is designed to protect the occupants from the elements, the inner layer is key to sound-proofing. The top can be personalized in various colors to suit the finish of the vehicle. Inside, composite materials have been used to create the hi-tech performance-oriented cabin, while the sports seats are made from carbon fiber. Prices have yet to be announced, but will be slightly higher than the coupe.--Richard Yarrow