Rumors about Alfa Romeo working on a spider version of the Alfa Romeo 4C sportscar go back to October 2013 and all reports have pointed to a Geneva Motor Show debut. Today, the 4C Spider has ceased to be a hearsay car, as Alfa Romeo has unveiled a prototype version of the new vehicle in Switzerland.
And to take things beyond doubt, the Italians have confirmed that the soft-top 4C is scheduled to go into production in early 2015. By then, the company will see that the Spider receives the structural reinforcement required by safety regulations for open-top vehicles, as well as other minor updates.
As you might have already guessed, the convertible 4C will be slightly heavier than the regular version, but Alfa Romeo says the car’s structural rigidity, “mechanical purity and low weight philosophy” won’t be compromised thanks to the use of carbon fiber rollover bars and windscreen frame and a lightweight canvas soft top. Specifically, the automaker expects the Spider to weigh about 60 kg (132.2 lbs) more than the coupe.
What else is new on the Spider? The Geneva prototype wears new carbon fiber clamshell headlamps, a new set of alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli tires and an all-new dual-stage central exhaust system with titanium and carbon tailpipes from Akrapovic. The system features an electrically-operated valve system that can improve performance and deliver an enhanced exhaust note at the push of a button.
Speaking of performance, the 4C Spider will be powered by the same turbocharged 1.75-liter four-cylinder engine found in the regular 4C. The mill generates 240 hp and enables the current model to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 miles per hour (249 km/h).
Ask Ciprian about cars and he'll reveal an obsession with classics and an annoyance with modern design cues. Read his articles and you'll understand why his ideal SUV is the 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer. Full profile
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