Alfa Romeo unveils new 4C Spider at Detroit Motor Show

Inspired by the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, the all new 4C Spider transcends this legendary racecar's mid-engine body forms and follows its purposeful and lightweight performance tradition with sheet-molded compound (SMC) composite panels forming its seductive Italian design, and 'clothing' its state-of-the-art carbon fibre monocoque chassis and all aluminum turbocharged, direct-injected engine that delivers 237bhp and 350Nm of torque.

Teamed to the engine is a paddle-shifting Alfa TCT (twin-clutch transmission) tuned specifically for the 4C Spider. With its uniquely calibrated software that adjusts with the Alfa DNA selector system, the Alfa TCT's gearshifts are designed to become most aggressive in the Dynamic and Race modes.

Thanks to its mid-engine layout, advanced technology and compact size, the 4C Spider demonstrates its precision, agility and performance credentials with a top speed of 257km/h, 0 to 100km/h acceleration blasts in an estimated 4.1 seconds, 1.1 g of lateral acceleration and 1.25 g of maximum braking deceleration.

Alfa Romeo engineers were also able to minimise structural differences between the 4C Spider and 4C Coupe, thanks to the monocoque's inherent rigidity. For a technical look, header strength and to keep the centre of gravity low, the 4C Spider features a unilateral carbon fibre windshield frame that is adhered and bolted to the monocoque chassis. In addition, a specially contoured aluminum rollbar (underneath the black or carbon fibre 'halo') provides mounting points for the new rear decklid, while unique upper body brackets and a high-strength steel engine compartment cross beam maximise torsional rigidity.

The Alfa Romeo 4C Spider features two composite-framed sport seats with standard leather and an exposed carbon fibre monocoque that exemplifies its race-inspired technologies. Furthermore, a driver-oriented cockpit with flat-bottom, leather performance steering wheel with paddle-shifters and aluminum pedals speak to the brand's racing spirit. For an upscale look, the fully wrapped premium-leather interior with accent stitching is standard on the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider, as are unique carbon fibre vent surrounds.