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It is no doubt that Alfa Romeo produces not only beautiful cars but also cars that you can be very proud to drive because of how smooth they run.

If you’re anything like us, you love the wide variety of models and configurations released by Alfa Romeo’s design teams of the past and today, we are placing the spotlight on the classic Alfa Romeo TZ models.

The Tubolare Zagato

Manufactured from 1963 to 1967, the Guioz TZ (Tubolare Zagato or Tubular Zagato) was designed as a race car. A simple glance at how it looks and you will notice the similarity in appearance with the Ferrari 250 GTO.

The name TZ is due to the tubular frame chassis that it has instead of the usual unitary steel construction of the Guilias. Additionally, the body is built and designed by Zagato. Although it may not look like the other Guilia models, many of the mechanical parts are based on it. 

The Lightweight Alfa Romeo Guilia TZ1

The first of the TZ was produced in 1963 and it’s mechanically based on the Giulia. However, Autodelta, the racing arm of Alfa Romeo created the tubular frame chassis, where it gets part of its name. Zagato designed it to be a very lightweight vehicle.  

Additionally, it also has a shorter wheelbase at 150mm, a bare cabin, independent suspension, and disk brakes. The resulting total weight of the vehicle was only at around 650 kilograms. This low weight vehicle carn reaches speeds up to 216 km per hour. This car is not only for racing but also for street use. The engine is capable of producing about 160 horsepower with the race trim and is detuned to 112 horsepower for road use. 

Apart from being lightweight, the body of the TZ is also narrow and sleek. This helps with aerodynamics to reduce drag. This is where you might see the similarities to the Ferrari 250 GTO. Both vehicles are designed to be in the shape wherein aerodynamics is carefully considered. Additionally, it also had Guilia’s standard wet steel liners but they were at an angle to further improve airflow.

The rear of the TZ also positively affects it’s performance. It features the coda tronca style. Coda tronca is Italian which means short tail. This style works in the principle that if the tail isn’t long like the once you’d see on an aircraft, it would be best to chop it off. Zagato has used this style previously on their other sports-racing cars like the Sprint Zagato. 

The Lighter Alfa Romeo Guilia TZ2

The production of the TZ2 started in 1964. This vehicle also has a strong resemblance to the Ferrari GTO. However, there are certain differences from the TZ1. First of all, the body of the TZ2 is slightly sleeker, wider, and lower than the TZ1. It was made even lighter by substituting the aluminum body with fiberglass. That reduced the weight of the TZ2 further down to about 620 kilograms. It is designed to be tightly molded to the chassis to further lower the drag.

The TZ1 was created for race and street but the TZ2 was specifically designed with a race trim only. To raise the output and reach 170 horsepower, it has twin spark plugs plus dry-sump lubrication for a lower center of gravity. These slight changes further improved the TZ2 when it comes to racing. It was now able to reach top speeds of 245 km per hour. A slight difference on the rear window is also noticeable. With the previous having three-part windows, the TZ2 now has a single unit. 

The production wasn’t long and has stopped by the end of 1965, which is why only 12 TZ2s were ever built. In 1966 onwards, Alfa Romeo stopped the car racing program on the Giulia and made room for their other GTA racing program.

The Modern TZ3 Stradale

Fast forward to 2010, as an homage to Alfa’s centenary, the Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale was conceived. Instead of having the Italian mechanicals, it uses the last Dodge Viper. It has the same 8.4-liter V-10 engine and 98.9 in wheelbase. However, the exterior is made to resemble an Alfa Romeo. Although it still has side exhaust tips, the body is very much of the Zagato style such as the coda tronca tail, Kammback shape, and double-bubble roof. Zagato considers this as the first American Alfa. Looks aside, driving it feels just like driving a viper.

A Rare Gem

The Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ is truly a gem and a rare collector’s item because Zagato only created 112 units for the first generation and 12 for the second. That’s the reason why it is one of the most valuable classic cars that many Alfa Romeo collectors dream of having. 

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Are you moving to another state? Maybe you’re bringing your Alfa Romeo to a car show in another city. Whatever the reason is, there might be a need for you to bring your vehicle from one place to another. Sure you can drive your car to the said place but why do that when you can hire a car transport service.

Car Transport Service

Car transport service providers specialize in transporting vehicles from one point to another. They make sure that the car arrives at the destination in the condition it was picked up. Some people do not like hiring a transport service because of the fees. However, considering the benefits, the fee you pay for is worth just a small price to pay for the benefits you get. Here are a few reasons why you should consider hiring a car transport service:

Save Miles Of Your Vehicle

If you decide to drive your vehicle to its destination, you are going to incur miles. Considering your Alfa Romeo’s current state and to save your classic car from aging any further, it is a wiser decision to save those miles. 

Aside from the miles, you are also saving your car from damage on the wheels, body, engine and overall appearance. If you plan to sell your Alfa Romeo, then you should make sure to preserve its interior and exterior. 

Car transport services make it easier to preserve the car by simply having it inside a container and transporting it. It is less likely to get scratched or damaged due to environment or road conditions when you have it transported than drive it to the destination. 

Saves You Time

It’s always fun to drive an Alfa Romeo but if your destination is quite far, it would take a lot of time for you to drive it. You can’t just drive it non-stop because you also need to rest, Depending on how far you need to go, you might spend hours, days or weeks driving the vehicle. 

On the other hand, car transport services can get your car to the destination immediately while you can spend that time doing other important things. Most transport services also have multiple drivers operating the towing vehicles so they can take turns and make sure your car arrives on time. 

Saves You Money

Car transport services are not free but they can help you save money. When you drive your car to the destination, you don’t only need to spend on fuel. You also spend money on your food and your accommodation. There are also some miscellaneous charges you’d have to pay for. Depending on your preference, what you spend on that trip can be much higher than what you have to pay to get your car transported or shipped.

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It’s no surprise that we simply adore Alfa Romeos. Whether they are the classic models or the much newer models. However, simply reading about them and knowing their capabilities, design, and performance may not be enough. Let us give you a treat by showing you some of our favorite Alfa Romeo photos.

Alfa Romeo Race Cars

Alfa Romeo makes great race cars. They have successfully dominated some of the well-known races including the Grand Prix motor racing, Formula One sportscar racing, and many others. In 1910, A.L.F.A. was established and it was at that very start that they focused their attention on the races. One of their first international victories was in 1923 in Targa Florio where a four-leaf clover symbol was seen on the bonnet. 

Years later, in the 1920’s and 1930’s the Alfa Romeo became unbeatable when it comes to their Sports vehicles. Until the present time, they still create race cars are still a great contender especially when their vehicles are controlled by some of the top-notch race car drivers.

Alfa Romeo Convertibles

Although Alfa Romeo started producing very expensive sports cars, they eventually produced cars that the masses can also enjoy. It was in the 1960s when they started to produce cars you don’t just see on the race tracks but on roads as well.

One thing that the Alfa Romeo is famous for is their convertible vehicles. This look and design certainly exude the sports car appeal. Usually, these models are just 2-seaters and they are called the Alfa Romeo Spiders.

Alfa Romeo Giulia (Type 105)

The name Alfa Romeo Giulia is given to three car models that aren’t really related to each other. The first, which we consider as the classic is also known as the Type 105. It is a four-door vehicle that has been in production from 1962 up to 1978. 

Various models of this would include the Giulia TI, TI Super, 1300, Super, 1300 ti, 1600 S, Super 1.3, Super 1.6, 1600 Rallye, and Nuova Super. All of them feature a boxy style design. It has a 4-cylinder engine that can either be a 1.3 liter or 1.6-liter version. They also had various power outputs due to the different configurations of their carburetors and tuning. Also, most of them come with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Alfa Romeo Giulia (Type 952

Unlike the Type 105, this Alfa Romeo Giulia Type 952 is a much more modern model. The production started in 2015 until the present year. Currently, there are several versions of this model including the Giulia, Super, Speciale, Veloce, Veloce Ti, Quadrifoglio, Advanced Efficiency, and the B-Tech Special Edition.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta

Like the Giulia, the Giulietta is also used to name 3 other cars that Alfa Romeo produced. The Type 750 and Type 101 are the first ones to be produced since 1954. The production of these rear-wheel drives stopped in 1965.

The second generation of the Giulietta is the Type 116, which started in production in 1977 as a replacement for the Giulia models. It was in 1985 that the production of the second generation was halted. Finally, the third generation is what is produced until today since it started in 2010. It is also known as type 940.

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As one of the countless Alfa Romeo Spider owners in the world today, we know first-hand of the happiness and pride that comes owning such a unique and sexy car. Unlike many collector that hide their sports cars in a storage garage, sexy cars like the Spider these are not meant to be stored – they’re meant to be driven!

While we feel very strongly that car collectors should get in their cars and drive them once in a while, all that exposure also increases the risk of damaging the vehicle. With that, you want the best insurance policy you can get for your car.

There are different car insurance policies available today. Will a standard policy does or should you get a specialized one? Also, are cars like the Alfa Romeo Spider considered by insurers as classic cars? What are their criteria for cars to consider them as a classic?

All these questions and more will be answered with our guide below.

Classic Car Classification

There is no universal guide to classifying cars as to whether they are a classic or not. Many of us consider the Alfa Romeo Spider as a classic vehicle but that may not be true for all insurance providers.

You have to talk with a specific insurance provider and ask them about their criteria for classic cars. They can also tell you what kind of insurance policies they can offer for the kind of vehicle you own.

The age of your vehicle can be considered when classifying it as a classic car but that’s not the only basis. Car insurance companies will also see how the car is built. Some may require vehicle appraisal while others may not. Appraisals help car insurers determine the current condition of the vehicle. Other factors may also include the way the car is used or planned to be used and the storage place of the car in question.

Does My Alfa Romeo Spider Need A Specialised Insurance Policy?

You can opt for a standard fully comprehensive insurance policy for your Alfa Romeo Spider or another classic car. However, you should carefully read and understand what the policy offers. Is the policy suitable for your classic car? Sometimes, classic cars like the Alfa Romeo spider have different requirements than the newer car models we have today.

Modern vehicles are insured for the sake of their purpose, as a tool for transportation. Classic cars, on the other hand, can be different because, more often than not, they are considered as showpieces. The way you see your vehicle should also reflect the insurance policy that you take for it.

If you plan to take your classic car around the country for shows, you should also inform the insurance provider about it so that it also reflects in your policy. This can also affect the cost. Also, if you plan to have your classic Alfa Romeo Spider rented out for weddings or events, the insurance company should also be informed.

Another thing to note on your insurance policy for your classic Alfa Romeo Spider is the authenticity of replacement parts should your car need one. It can be difficult to source some older parts but there are still some out there. You want to make sure you preserve your vehicle as much as you can.

The Price Of A Classic Car Insurance Policy

As a classic car owner, it’s understandable that you’d want to preserve your vehicle even if that means not driving it all the time. Classic cars are kept and taken care of more as compared to conventional cars available today. This lessens the risk of accidents and also keeps the mileage down.

Even if classic cars are more expensive than other conventional vehicles, insurance providers may consider the frequency of use and the mileage to compute for the premiums. Some more affordable insurance policies may also include a mileage limit that you have to follow. In case you exceed it or is about to exceed it, you should inform the insurance provider so that your insurance claims won’t be invalidated should you need them.

Limited mileage may also help classic car owners negotiate a no claims discount to further decrease the premiums the longer you have the insurance policy. With all that info, we can say that taking a specialized policy for your classic car can help you save on premiums. It is possible that you spend more on premiums if you opt for the standard insurance policy for your classic ride.

Where Can I Get A Classic Car Insurance

Not all car insurance companies offer classic car insurance. There are companies that specialize in insuring collectible vehicles. These specialty insurers often offer a customizable policy depending on the car to be insured and how it is used.

When looking for classic car insurance for your Alfa Romeo Spider, you have to ask the actual cash value of your vehicle. This agreed value will be paid in case your classic car is totaled. This agreed value should be clear.

Another thing to look for is if they offer restoration coverage. In case the car meets an accident, will it be repaired just like a conventional vehicle or will they take extra steps to restore it to its former glory. The spare parts coverage is also very important because some parts are very expensive due to their limited production. This should also be cleared out by the insurance provider.

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The Alfa Romeo is a well-loved European brand that produces fine quality luxury vehicles. It’s a resilient brand that has had a lot of close calls but they always seem to pull themselves back up again.

A look at their catalog will reveal some of the most beautiful cars that were ever made. Look back to a decade ago and you’ll see the magnificent line of luxury cars they have to offer. That includes the Giluletta, Brera, Spider, and Mito.

Although today’s cars still look great and they offer some of the world’s most affordable sports cars, there is an obvious difference when it comes to the looks and driving experience. The Giulia Quadrifiglio and 4C Spider can steal any Alfa Romeo lover’s heart but it wouldn’t be a popular choice especially for the masses.

The Current State Of The Luxury Car Industry

The global car industry, not just the luxury car industry has been experiencing a downfall in the past years. Some plants have closed down and there has also been a cut in the production. There is an obvious fall in the demand not just for luxury European sports cars but for all types of cars.

Similarly, regulations regarding fossil fuels have tightened. This is great for the environment but can cause a headache to car producers. With this, the production of cars is made more expensive. The tighter regulations we see today is just the beginning and it is expected to be even tougher for car producers in the coming years.

Turning Electric

As an Alfa Romeo enthusiast, it can be heartbreaking to part away from the usual cars that they produce. It’s just the way it is. Change needs to come even for our beloved Alfa Romeo classics.

The Alfa Romeo, like other car brands, are now looking into producing electric vehicles. These won’t cause as much pollution as the older fossil-fuel-powered engines. As we all know, this could mean it would cost more to produce such vehicles especially if they are doing it alone.

Their will to survive is strong and their strategy is to pursue a partnership rather than do it alone. Alfa Romeo is currently working on this and it is rumored that they’ll be releasing their line up in 2022. Although they are turning into electric, they would only be producing hybrid electric units and no pure electric cars yet by 2022.

Conclusion

Amid the car industry downtrend, the Alfa Romeo still lives up to its reputation of being a resilient brand. The world is changing and there is a need to cope up by embracing changes.

Producing hybrid electric vehicles through a partnership is a smart move. This could mean that it still isn’t the end of the road for the Alfa Romeo after all.

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Congratulations on your recent sports car purchase. Whether you’ve got one of the world’s most affordable sports cars or the more expensive ones, you have to think about how to properly transport it.

There are a variety of ways on how to transport your most precious sports car. One of the best ways to do that is to hire covered car transport. Covered transport provides better security and improved protection for your vehicle while on the road to you.

Apart from that, here are a couple more reasons why you should opt for covered car transport:

Save On Miles

Yes, you bought your car to drive it but do you really want to spend the unnecessary miles just to get it to you when there is an alternative? A covered car transport secures your vehicle in place. The wheels won’t touch the road while it is being transported.

The extra miles you get while transporting your sport’s car in this way can help with its resale value. It can prevent its value from depreciating and it can also prevent additional damage while on the road.

Protection Against Bad Weather

Rain may not always come during summer but it can. The shade provided by the covered car transport protects the car not only from the rain but also from the heat of the sun. Additionally, if you are transporting the car during winter time, it would also be protected against snow and harsh winds.

Too much exposure of your vehicle to the sun and other weather conditions can be dreadful to the paintwork. Similarly, the interior upholstery can also fade due to too much sun. No matter what time of year, a transporter with an enclosed trailer is best.

Lessen Road Risk

Not only with the trailer protect your vehicle from various weather conditions, but it will also physically protect your vehicle from other road risks. It is possible for tiny rocks on the road that can chip the paint or break the windshield. This is especially true when your traveling at fast speeds.

Additionally, grit and dirt from the road surface can stick to your vehicle. Also, salt which is used during the winter months can also get into the underside of your vehicle and damage it in the long run. All these can be avoided with a covered transporter.

Keep It A Secret

Protect your vehicle from prying eyes by using a trailer. Although your neighbors, family and friends will eventually see you driving the car, you can prevent strangers from knowing that a luxury car is being transported.

Sports cars are head turners and sometimes it attracts dubious people who can make unruly plans regarding your vehicle. Keeping your vehicle under wraps is one of the best ways to protect it against criminals.

Conclusion

There are a few ways to transport vehicles but the best way to do that is to place it securely inside a trailer. A covered car transport offers the best protection for your luxury sports car while it’s on its way to you.

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We have come a long way since the invention of the wheel.  It seems we’re nearly on the verge of self-driving cars becoming reality.

We are entering the world of the Jetsons.

Yet even the current generation of cars can do so much that the original founders of the car would have a difficult time accepting how much the car industry has evolved if they were given a peek into the moderns world of cars from the afterlife.

For all its advancements though, the modern car world lacks character, the sort of charm where a somewhat unreliable car would still be viewed as one of the most perfect creations of man. It might seem like wishful thinking, but our chase for efficiency and value for money has made seeing a car like that being made again nothing more than wishful thinking.

Thankfully, there are still some of these classic old cars alive and kicking and few are as significant and worthwhile in this regards as the 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV.

An innocuous but captivating look

You know how there are different types of beauty.

The first thought that comes to people’s minds when they think about beauty is the obvious kind that smacks you in the face. Then there is the understated beauty that doesn’t captivate immediately but somehow holds your gaze. It keeps you hooked on and for reasons unknown while a spell is cast on you by it.

Sure we’re biased Alfa-lovers, but even the biggest sourpuss has to admit:  The GTV is poetry in motion.

Showing Off – The Alfa Romeo 1974 GTV

Take the parts of this car individually and there is nothing very remarkable about them. However, put them together and they combine to form this beautiful and enchanting object that has been the burning desire of men and women since its very inception.

Just like most supermodels who do not possess classic features of attractiveness and yet look so perfect, the 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV is all about how good it looks a whole. The current generation of Alfa Romeo cars are considered a hollow shell of their former selves and this car will show you why.

Everything is so well proportioned from the ride height, the size of the cabin, the size of the wheels, the design of the hood and pretty much every single feature to knobs and switches amalgamate perfectly.

You couldn’t make this car look any better if you tried to.

An interior you’d like to live in

Lush Interior – Alfa Romeo 1974 GTV

Modern carmakers will argue that one area where they are better than their older counterparts is the interior styling and while they would be right in most cases, the 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV isn’t one of the old-timers that modern cars can trump even when comparing the interiors.

Everything is a shoutout to a bygone era but in a classically soothing way.

Sitting inside this car will feel like sitting inside a stately mansion.

The steering wheel isn’t adjustable but you wouldn’t need to – it’s just so damn good.

The instrument console and the switches are the only downside here but even they have a sort of humorous charm to them that will force you to look at them as a mischievous ploy by the designers of this car rather than a defect or an oversight from the manufacturers.

Sure, its has it’s fair share of reliability issues…

It is inevitable that the moment you take interest in the 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV that you will set yourself on the path of naysayers who will make fun of the GTV’s reliability issue.

The truth though is that this car isn’t any more unreliable than the other cars of its era.

A lot of the parts of this car like so many at that time where machined by hand leading to some discrepancies and the reliability issues but a well-maintained 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV is almost as hassle-free as any modern car.

…but boy, is it a joy to drive:

130 Ponies – Alfa Romeo 1974 GTV Engine

The actual fun of this car is the way in which it drives. The lack of strict safety regulations back then meant that the body of this car didn’t need to have a lot of the beams and pillars modern cars are required to have by law.

Weighing in at less than a ton, this car is powered by an engine churning out 130 horsepower, the weigh / power ration makes this an exciting car to drive.

There is an immediacy to the acceleration that is just exhilarating to the hilt.

In fact, the engine in this car was so good that it stayed in continuous production for over two decades without any changes. The steering does feel a bit disconnected but somehow doesn’t feel like an inhibition.

Of course, it goes without saying that an old-timey car as this one isn’t the safest out there but as long as it is driven with a healthy respect for its capabilities, it will be impossible not to fall in love with the 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV, that is, if its looks haven’t accomplished that task already.

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When you think of a sports car the first thing that strikes your mind is the expense that will incur in purchasing one. Almost all of us have a dream of owning a sports car but when we think of the price we just drop the idea. Most of us think that we will have to pay an arm and a leg to buy a sports car, which is actually true to an extent. If you look at the mega sports car-manufacturing companies such as Porsche, Ferrari or BMW, you would have to wait a lifetime in order to own a car by one of these brands. But worry not! Because we have got some sports cars that are just within your reach and you will not have to save your entire life in order to buy one. Below is the list of some not so expensive sports cars that you can find today.

2018 Subaru WRX

One of the fastest growing auto manufacturing brands these days is Subaru and why not cause when you talk about the capability and the reliability of the Subaru models are all equipped. The 2018 Subaru WRX is just a revelation for the enthusiast who is not looking to break the bank. It is a sports sedan that comes in with five seats and impressive design, which is stylish at the same time. When talking about the speed it can go from 0-60 mph in just 5.0 seconds.

2018 Toyota 86

Toyota is a well-known car-manufacturing brand all around the globe and has been in the industry for a very long time now. The 2018 Toyota 86 is manufactured keeping in view the budget of the enthusiast. This car will certainly not be very high n your budget but have all the essentials you require from a sports car. When talking about the speed it can go from 0-60 mph in just 6.2 seconds and can hit the top speed of 134mph.

2018 Ford Fiesta ST

If a massive trunk is not that important or you and what you are looking for is just a sports car, it does not get any better than this. The 2018 Ford Fiesta ST is the hatchback sports car that can twist and turn at really high speeds. If you are an enthusiast on a budget and want to own a sports car the Ford Fiesta ST is just the right pick for you. The Ford Fiesta ST has four cylinders and is a two-wheel manual car. So you get the complete feel of the gear shifting that you wanted out of a sports car.

2018 Ford Mustang

Every enthusiast on a budget knows that he can get a muscle car within his limitations and when it is Ford Mustang why would you opt for any other sports car. The 2018 Ford Mustang has the same hard body that it the Mustang is known for, only with an advanced and improved technology. When speaking of speed it can go from 0-60 in less than even 5.0 seconds.

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Known as the most seductive and unique car makers, Alfa Romeo belongs to the class of its own. Although this brand isn’t the current market competitor, the reputation came from the cars it created in the past.

It all began in 1910 when Alfa Romeo started building some extraordinary sports cars that people started falling for them. With over hundred years of experience in building cars, Alfa Romeo produced some unforgettable models that topped our chart.

Fasten your seat belts as we’ll be reviewing top 5 Alfa Romeo Classics.

Alfa Romeo 2000 Sportiva 1954

Sportive was actually a concept car, only four cars made it through the completion stages including two spiders and two coupes. This beast was designed by Scaglione for Bertone but it never made to production.

Known as one of the best cars of the fifties, the idea was actually to build ‘flying saucers’ with a tubular space frame and an astonishing DOHC engine sourced from Alfa’s post-war family saloon. Adding more to the DOHC engine, it was blazing fast and reliable that made it look like a futuristic innovation.

Alfa Romeo Disco Volante 1952

This was Alfa Romeo’s most futuristic car specially requested by the US for an Alfa Barchetta sports racer. Rounded fenders, low slung profile and convex tail make this car resemble a Jaguar E-type.

This variant was powered by a revamped version of the four-cylinder engine found in Alfa Romeo 1900. Although this car presented a class of its own, many people didn’t like the uncommon design.

Alfa Romeo T33/2 Stradale Prototipo 1967

Alfa Romeo T33/2 Stradale Prototipo 1967 combines the most appealing design and top-notch engineering skills making it superior in the racing circles. Curvaceous design coupled with the aluminum body wrapped around an aluminum tubular chassis makes this car one of its kind.

Only 18 T33/2 Stradale Prototipo 1967 were produced with a lightning fast V8 engine weighing only 700 kg each. This was no doubt a special car that sat low on the road and gives out a picture-perfect look.

Alfa Romeo Spider Duetto 1966 – 1994

Known as the queen of cars among many Alfa Romeo lovers, this is one of the most good-looking cars ever produced in history. This car was brought into presence to promote open-top driving and speed on the road.

One can make assumptions about the hype and demand of this car by the fact that it was only manufactured for three years but the design prolonged through the 1990s. From sound to appearance, this car had it all to be called the masterpiece.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta SS Prototipo Bertone

This car debuted in 1957 at the Turin Motor Show making everyone jump out of their expectations. Giulietta SS Prototipo Bertone was expected to substitute Giulietta SS but it never made it to the production.

This unique model stayed in the vision of people who generated it, others remain unlucky to see it.

From classics to most seductive cars, Alfa Romeo has produced it all to meet your expectations in every manner.

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Once the domain of a few big-name luxury names companies, the luxury car industry has now become a crowded marketplace, all vying for the heart, eyes, and wallets of high end customers.   Although this might make things tough for car manufacturers, this is a great thing consumers!

Now, in our honest opinion, Alfa Romeo dealerships do a pretty good job of catering to higher-end tastes, there’s always room for improvement!

Below is a good dealership industry article we had uncovered on the ways in which dealerships like Alfa Romeo can improve their experience to set themselves apart from their competition.

Grazie per la lettura!

In the years past, the name value and the prestige of a luxury brand were enough to attract the discerning customers and clients. However, just like any other market segment, the luxury market has changed quite significantly. For starters, there are many players in this market, leading to saturation. Secondly, the customer’s mindset has changed quite significantly. The social status and the aesthetics of luxury goods are not as valued by affluent customers as they did years past.

In a saturated market, what are auto dealerships doing to differentiate from competing brands and dealerships?  Before we get into specifics, let’s take a look at the definition of the term “luxury” as it relates to consumer goods, like cars.

Unique Experiences

These factors have meant that luxury brands have had to change their understanding of luxury. They have been forced to focus on creating a differentiating experience. A unique experience is a true marking of a luxury brand; a unique experience is what keeps customers happy and loyal.

Rooting for unique experiences to differentiate your brand is not empty talk. There are market research findings to support this kind of marketing. Harris Group conducted a research in which they found out that over 72% of millennials prefer spending more of their money on experiences rather than material goods.

The premise is that with experiences you are enriched significantly more (for instance, by memories that will last you a lifetime). Additionally, experience is now considered a driver for happiness, as opposed to the fleeting joy and happiness brought about by material goods. This thinking is now transcending to other generations, thereby increasing the value of the experiences.

Car Dealerships Are Leading The Way

Leading the way in creating luxury-focused experiences for clients is the luxury auto dealerships. In the new market, it is not enough to provide customers with just donuts and coffee/tea. The top luxury car manufacturers are pulling all stops to make the purchase experience as luxurious as their product, if not more.

Dealerships are pulling all stops to keep their customers at the dealership for as long as possible, thereby engaging with the clients that much more and much better. As such, dealerships have installed mini art studios (with a car-centric theme), wine and coffee bars, a mini gym, and much more for their customers to enjoy while still in the dealership. All these amenities are designed to yield a never witnessed experience which is more appreciated by clients which makes them loyal customers.

Another strategy to create unique experience is for luxury brands to join forces to create a unique experience for their customers. A good example of this kind of strategy is the deal between Waldorf Astoria (Beverly Hills) and Aston Martin. As a provider of luxury accommodation and luxury car respectively, both brands joined forces to create a truly unique and luxurious experience. With a two night package at the hotel, guest got a chance to use Aston Martins. They could also purchase Aston Martin accessories and wearables at a pop-up shop that had been set-up in the hotel lobby.

Other Industries Are Following

Toms Shoes created a charity-oriented experience for their customers. For every Toms Shoes purchased by a customer, Tom donated a pair of shoes to a needy child. In doing this, their customers not only purchased a luxury shoe, they also experienced the joy of helping out a needy child. This one-for-one strategy proved to be very successful and they have donated over 35 million pairs of shoes. Additionally, they expanded this strategy to their eyewear line of products.

Macallan, a luxury brand in the Scotch Whisky segment, is known to produce some of the finessed single malt Scotch whiskeys. Beyond making and selling a luxury drink, they also focus on providing a unique experience for their customers. They hold private tasting events, where their customers from around the country and even the world are educated on matters of luxury Scotch Whiskies. Customers get an opportunity to enjoy the various Macallan whiskeys, learn about the company, and interact with the company staff in a more personalized manner.

Another example of a profitable partnership was the Uber and Marc Jacobs partnership. They both run a 6-hour campaign in New York, where New Yorkers could engage with Marc Jacobs Daisy brand. They could request ride from a daisy-theme Uber car and rider would receive a free gift pack. The campaign was so successful that it reached over 61 million people on social media and had 5,459 Uber ride requests.

Big Opportunities

The luxury market for car dealerships is poised to grow significantly in the coming years, with an estimated 480-million luxury clients by 2025. As such, luxury brands need to shift their focus on more than the luxury image they conjure to how best to create unique experiences for their clients and customers, if they are to succeed.

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Well, if you are a teenager and not really into sports cars, you might not have heard of Alfa Romeo. Other than that, there is hardly anyone who hasn’t heard of the brand. It is one of the most prestigious car manufacturing company. It is always one step ahead in producing beautifully designed and craftily engineered sports cars. The price of the Alfa Romeo beauties is often high for an average buyer but when you talk about value for money, everything begins to make sense.

Alfa Romeo is an Italian brand and has been in the business of sports car and racing since 1911. In this article, we will discuss some of the unique features of this brand and reason to fall in love with it.

A long and proud history

Soon after the inception of the company in 1910, the Alfa Romeo cars began to rule the race circuit. It has been a shining star in some of the most competitive and challenging races from all around the world. The European touring car championship, F1, Le Mans, and Mille Miglia are only to name a few.

Alfa Romeo has been somewhat out of the racing game recently but the cars they make still have the same DNA. If you want power, speed, and excitement – Alfa should be your number one choice.

Makers of some of the most stunning cars

It is not only speed and power that distinguishes this brand from others but the design is simply amazing too. The signature, triangular grille of Alfa Romeo has been one of the most praised features in their cars. If you want some solid proof of this claim just Google 2000 Sportiva Coupe, Tipo 33 Stradale or the 8C Competizione and get ready to be amazed. With 4C and Giulia, the Alfa Romeo is still living up to the expectations and impressing the sports car enthusiast world over!

An Italian Brand

Just like Pizzas, sports car comes naturally to Italy. If you love racing cars, you must adore the detail and love with which Italian manufacturers make their sports cars. Some people are of the opinion that Italian cars are not as reliable and we are not here to prove them wrong. Any true sports car lover will exchange reliability for breathtaking design, amazing speed, and color that makes head turn. Other than that, it is really hard to match the driving experience these Italian cars offer. So, it is really not about the numbers, affordability, and mileage with these cars but true passion, out of this word driving experience and the pride that one holds in owning them!

Alfa Romeo Is Different

Talking about the competition, that is BMW, Benz, Audi, etc are all in the business of making sports cars but Alfa is different. From the day one, the company has maintained the same 5-star standard. However, many believe that the quality of other manufacturers has become a little softer.

Do you love Alfa Romeo too? What do you like the best in the car? Let us know in comments section below!

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Owning a sports car is a dream of many. This dream remains a dream for many but some lucky ones out there get to fulfill their dream and own a sports car. If you have a sports car, you must be special. Keep in mind that your car is almost as special as you are and requires care.

We have seen people literally spoiling their sports car. We understand that you have the money but your vehicle needs your attention not exactly your money. In this article, we will talk about ways you can probably kill your sports car…

You Don’t Check The Engine Oil

The most important part of a sports car (or any other car per se) is the engine. And what keeps the engine running? It’s the oil!

It is crucial that you keep an eye on the engine oil level and change it frequently. For sports car owners we recommend that you should be extra careful and change the engine oil before time.

Engine oil change costs around $40 and your sports car may cost 100,000. So, make a wise choice and change the engine oil on time. Keeping the engine oil also enhances the driving experience, which should be right up there if you are driving a sports car.

You Don’t Change The Air Filter

Your sports car breath through the air filters. Due to high speed involved, air filters of s sports car needs more attention than normal cars. If possible change the air filters after every 15 days or at least at the time of the oil change.

Never clean and reuse the air filters as it may cause other problems.

You are Driving on Worn Brake Pads

The brakes in a sports car become so much more important due to the speed and engine power it possesses. This is the reason why sports car manufacturers spend millions of dollars annually on the research and development of the braking system.

You as a driver should never take worn brake pads or those annoying noise from the brakes lightly. Remember that when you are driving at 140 Km/hour, it is a life that is at stake. Not only yours but of people around you as well.

Not Taking Care of Shocks

The Shock absorbers in a sports car fine-tune the ride. How smoothly it drives and how well it absorbs those bumps will depend on the health of the shock absorbers. Although shocks are not easily damaged but you as a sports car driver should always keep an eye on them mainly because they cost around 1000 – 1500 dollars.

Also, repairing the shocks of your sports car is not a good idea. It might be okay for a normal vehicle but not advisable for a sports car owner.

You’re Not Taking Care of Your Car in Extreme Temperatures

Extreme cold weather can be harmful to your engine and extreme heat can cause physical damage to pain and the shine of your sports car. Just make sure that your car is properly parked in a garage, under a shade when not in use.

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Alfa Romeo is all about pure driving pleasure. No matter which model it is, all Alfa Romeo cars are built on 3 basic rules – Great Design, Great Power & Great Sound. Every car from this company reminds you of Italy and their famous car craziness. Alfas can very well attend to your speed requirements but there is one thing that has always been a concern for fans – The lack of new models, designs and alterations!

This however is about to change in 2018.

After more than almost 20 years, the Alfa Romeo has something exciting for the US fans. A series of models actually designed for the masses and not just for the rich old folks looking to add another car in their collection.

Brief Overview

The Alfa Romeo Giulia is already here but we are going to see some not so big but definitely cool changes in 2018. These changes include the Android Auto and the Apple Car Play. The biggest surprise is the brand’s first big, cool SUV, which looks like the Giulia but is simply bigger and taller. All in all, some exciting things to come in 2018 and below are all the details you need.

Alfa Romeo 4C

The front has been revamped in Alfa Romeo 4C with shiny fiber fascia vents. Other than that the interior now also has a choice of black fine leather with an elegant yellow accent. It’s not a standard feature but something worth paying extra.

Alfa Romeo Giulia

In 2018 we are going to see some minor changes in optional as well as standard equipment in Alfa Romeo Giulia. Talking about the optional addition – the Android Auto and Apple Car Play tops the list. A much needed, automatic emergency breaking system will now come as a standard feature.

What we have really liked in 2018 Giulia is the revised wheel design which will be available for most trim levels.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio

This is we have all been waiting for – A brand new SUV, based on simple Giulia design. Alfa hasn’t changed the engine capacity as well, so, Stelvio will be available with same 2.7-liter and 2.0-liter engines. The all-wheel drive function in this SUV is available as standard. The high performance Quadrifoglio will be seen in models later in 2018. All in all, it’s a perfect family vehicle with lots of room, power and of course that elegant look!

That’s all for now folks…if you have more news or anything else to share, please feel free to shout out loud in comments section below.

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It’s not quite what you would expect from an Alfa Romeo nor what you expect from an SUV, yet it someone manages to be better than both of those things. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a luxury crossover SUV manufactured by Alfa Romeo. It has been receiving a lot of praise and high reviews as of late, and for good reason. It’s stylish, safe, and very practical. Perhaps the first time this manufacturer has received this much praise since it released the Matta back in the 1950’s.

Yes it’s an SUV, but it’s all Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo Stelvio on the road

Named after the famous mountain pass in Northern Italy, the Stelvio is designed as a high-end, premium vehicle to compete with the likes of Porsche, Audi and Range Rover.  It’s clear to us that the manufacturer didn’t cut any corners or make any sacrifices to save a dollar, which is a great thing for the most part. It’s not simply labeled as a “luxury” vehicle. It really feels luxurious. From the lightweight aluminum to the carbon fiber prop shaft; the Stelvio barely weighs enough to register on the scales.

Rarely is there is a four-wheel-drive SUV that weighs so little. It’s only around 1659kg when it’s filled with fluids. The Jaguar F-Pace is one of the few luxury SUVs that can compete in terms of weight. Interestingly enough, both vehicles use primarily lightweight aluminum in their construction.

Don’t let the term “lightweight” fool you, though. This is a tough, rigid, and rugged sports utility vehicle. It’s not designed to compete with vehicles like the Land Rover with their terrain selections and off-road capabilities, but it’s tough enough to handle a bumpy ride.

Two Options Available

You have two options for your engine when you purchase a Stelvio. One option is the Petrol 2.0-litre Turbo. Not an entirely popular choice in the past, but it pairs very well with the Stelvio. It can push 296lb ft with 276bhp and reach speeds of 62 mph in only 5.7 seconds.

The second option is a 2.2-litre diesel engine that handles 347lb-ft with 207bhp. It can reach the 62 mph mark in about 6.6 seconds. This engine choice is still slightly more popular than the first option. It’s cleaner and more efficient.  It’s a bit noisy, but definitely worth it.

Both options provide an eight-speed automatic experience. Overall, the drive is very smooth in regards to the gearbox as long as you let it handle itself. However, it’s very tempting to push the paddles to the limit. That’s when you start to notice kicks with the full throttle upshifts and such. Luckily, you’ll only find problems like that if you’re really looking for them. For the most part, the ride is smooth and comfortable.

Modern Functionality, Classic Design

Of course, since this is a modern luxury vehicle, the inside is packed with sensors, lights, screens, and various other accessories that beep and boop. If you’re not a fan of those things, then you’ll have a hard time enjoying your rides. On the other hand, if you enjoy them, then there’s plenty in the Stelvio to keep you entertained.

There are sensors for braking, steering, reversing, and more. Any accessories or features that aren’t included in the standard model can likely be added as an option for a few extra bucks.

Even the appearance of the inside is enough to capture your attention for awhile. Especially when it’s your first time seeing it. There is beautiful interior trim, the seats look impressive, even the steering wheel has that “luxury” feel to it.

Upping the Luxury SUV Genre

There are a few other luxury SUVs on the market worth considering, but the Alfa Romeo Stelvio can easily compete with the best of them. It has definitely put Alfa Romeo back on the map as one of the leading manufacturers in the world. The Stelvio is stylish, full of features, lightweight, and surprisingly rugged. It looks good and drives even better.

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Designed in Italy during the dawn of the space-age, Alfa Romeo’s first racing prototype in a decade was quickly dubbed the “Disco Volante” (Italian for Flying Saucer) in response to it’s thoroughly contoured, aerodynamic design.  It immediately  divided racing professional and enthusiast into two camps:  one that considered the vehicle to be a complete and utter waste of time, energy and money, and the other that thought the design was pure genius.

As it turns out, both were right.

Breaking New Ground

After the 2nd World War, Alfa Romeo was the car manufacturer to beat on the Grand Prix circuit and during the early concept phase of the prototypes the confidence was apparent as the Alfa Romeo brass has visions that such a vehicle might quickly overtake newer American and German designed sports cars as the car of choice on the LeMans and Monacco venues, however they quickly realized the shortcomings in terms of quality validation at sustained speeds.  While these issues were solvable, only 3 were ever produced and 2 tested, and the Alfa Romeo racing team quickly moved to concentrate on more traditional single-seat racing cars like the Alfa Romeo’s Tipo Alfetta

While the design wasn’t a commercial success, the design ascetics and engineering were a decade ahead of the competition. In fact it was one of the first cars to be modified in large part from wind tunnel testing, a rare occurrence, especially for the early 1950’s. The forward thinking design showed well on the track where the Red Flying Saucer prototype could reach speeds of up to 220 km/h. And what a beautiful smooth ride it must have been for anyone lucky enough to have driven it!

While entusiast weren’t so sure at the time, history has shown what a classic the Disco Volante has become. You can see it’s classic signature on other legendary cars like the Jaguar E-type.

2012 Disco Volante Update

In 2012 something equally remarkable took place, Coachbuilder Touring Superleggera decided to recreate the stunning Disco Volante. They impressively presented their beautiful creation of the 2012 Disco Volante specifically for the purposes of the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

It was built to have the same specifications as the original Alfa Romeo Disco Volante back in 1952. It offered an impressive six speed transaxle gearbox with paddle shift and a double wishbone suspension as part of its impressive features.

However it was not a ground-up build and instead customers needed to provide an 8C Competizione as a donor car. Touring Superleggera could then go about converting it into the magnificent Alfa Romeo Disco Volante. This was not a quick job as you can imagine, this would take a total time period of up to six full months for completion.

Experience the Alfa Romeo Disco Volante

For anybody who appreciates the automotive world and the history behind it, if you ever find yourself in Milan, in Italy take a visit to The Alfa Romeo History Museum in Arese. Here you will discover a coupe and spider version of The Alfa Romeo Disco Volante which forms a part of their permanent collection. This is an experience you do not want to miss. Just the pure site of this beauty, will get your heart racing guaranteed.

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Alfa Romeo has always impressed in the mini car arena. This company, founded way back in the 1900’s, has had an impressive run over the century it has been in existence. It has produced cars for the masses that have defined generations. The Mito in particular is a supermini series that has been on the market since 2008. This car is definitely among the best in its cadre in terms of style, efficiency, and bare looks.

There are key things that every car enthusiast looks at when ranking a particular model, for the Alfa Romeo Mito, they have to include the looks since this car is particularly made for its aesthetics. We will look at the overview of this car in terms of features including where it impresses as well as highlight any places it might have fallen short of expectations.

The Design

Small but Sporty – The Mito

As usual, Alfa Romeo Mito goes big on design. This car has definitely become one of the best-looking cars in its segment. When compared to many of its competitors, the car stands out both on the exterior and the interior. The emphasis is on the exterior though, where the car perfects its signature look to reflect the expectations of people living in the current decade. It’s crouching signature profile, is well augmented with a wide body profile. The look is quite bold compared to anything else on the market, which makes the car a definite eye-catcher.

The inclusion of a choice of grander alloy wheels in addition to the standard ones is a very welcome thing. The interior of the car, as good as it is, does not really stand up to the exterior. The Alfa Romeo Mito is definitely better than many other cars in its caliber in the interior design aspect, but it definitely struggles to match to its own impressive exterior.

Technology and Performance

Alfa Romeo Mito cars have improved technology-wise since the launch of the first car. The modern car you will find in the market today, from the 2014 version, have added increased usability. There is an appreciated inclusion of touchscreen controls for infotainment, wireless communication and navigation among other essentials that are forward-looking for today’s cars. As for the engines, the car comes with a variety of options that give users a good range to choose from.

There is a 1.4-liter engine that is made for petrol with two options of power output. The higher power output engine is also turbocharged, meaning it has a strong performance. The diesel-powered options also come in a pair, only slightly differing in brake horsepower. There is also a dual-cylinder engine which is made for efficiency.

Driving Experience and Comfort

The Alpha Romeo Mito has always had a great driving experience since it is light on the wheel. This however, does not translate into super-car controls that can handle great speeds, in fact, it feels a little unstable when trying to navigate at high speeds. The interior is also made to handle light driving with a gearbox that needs time to maneuver.

In terms of safety, the car is equipped with suitable modern airbags, head restraints and sensors that alert the driver in case of an issue with the tires. The car can however make improvements in other safety measures like adding rear-proximity danger warning to caution drivers that ply in areas that are often jammed with traffic.

Price and Maintenance

The Alpha Romeo Mito is an affordable car that goes to a great length to balance price and value. Its maintenance costs are quite low and it has smooth engines that are easy to maintain.

Additionally the Mito will also save you a lot in terms of road tax if you decide to go with the cleaner and less powerful engines. The more powerful engines are also quite efficient and are designed to save as much energy as possible when the car is not actively engaged.

Bottom Line?

In overall, the Alpha Romeo Mito is a great car that has an all-around balance of comfort, power, safety and aesthetics. It is impressive any way you look at it. While few things need to be improved in future models, this car carefully balances expectations and reality delivering a solid machine that is a stunner on the road.

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Please, if anyone in Alfa Romeo is listening, this car needs to become a reality…Lucio

Source: Concept Car Showcase: Alfa Romeo 6C by Gianfranco Spano – autoevolution

Nurturing talent is essential for an individual to go forward. In the world of car designers, though, some people have an inborn knack for creating spectacular machines. Today we’ll zero in on an up-and-coming automotive design crackerjack from Italy…

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