FiatChrysler Australia is targeting a sub-$80,000 price tag for the new Alfa Romeo 4C sports car due in 2014.
The production version of the mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive two-seat sports car that was the star of the 2011 Geneva motor show made its debut this week at the 2013 version of the Swiss auto event.
Australia’s initial allocation will come from 100 units bound for the Asia-Pacific region of a ‘Launch edition’ model displayed at the show, which will be slightly more expensive than subsequent models due to additional elements such as carbonfibre trim.
The Alfa Romeo 4C features a lightweight construction that includes a carbonfibre chassis to help it hit the scales under 1000kg.
It’s powered by a 176kW 1.8-litre direct injection turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s mated to a dual-clutch auto gearbox.
The 4C will sprint from 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds and reach 250km/h.
At less than four metres long and just 118cm high, the 4C is a junior model to the now-discontinued 8C Competizione sports car that was never sold in Australia.
The model forms part of a sporting renaissance for Alfa Romeo, which will also build a new-generation Spider in 2015 based on the next Mazda MX-5.
The 4C will also spearhead the Italian brand’s return to the United States.
