by Ross Finlay (11 Sep 03)

The latest design study from the Alfa Romeo Style Centre is this beautiful 8C Competizione coupé which, if it achieved production status even in technically less exotic form, would surely have wealthy enthusiasts hammering at the doors of dealerships all over the world.

In different ways, the project is historical and modern at the same time. Modern elements include the carbon fibre body construction, the substantially proportioned wheels and tyres, and the turbocharged 4.2-litre 90-degree V8 engine with its power output of more than 400bhp at 7000rpm. 

Calling it in English translation "a prototype", which may give a slightly misleading impression, Alfa Romeo says the car, using a six-speed transmission and rear-wheel drive, can manage the 0-62mph sprint in 4.5 seconds and continue to a top speed on the high side of 187mph.

The 8C Competizione is a step or two forward from the very attractive Nuvola concept car of the 1990s. Alfa fanciers may notice, among other styling cues from the past, the front-end resemblance to the long-gone 33 Coupé Stradale, and the rear light clusters similar to those on the Giulia TZ.

As for the name: well, Vittorio Jano was responsible for the 8C Alfa Romeos which had such a majestic reputation on the road and in competition, with victories in the Mille Miglia and the 24-hour races at Le Mans and Spa to their credit. 

But he also designed the 6C series, which scored earlier wins in the Mille Miglia, Spa, the Six-Hour Race at Brooklands and the 1929 Irish Grand Prix at Phoenix Park.

After the war, Alfa Romeo started campaigning a 6C 2500 Competizione, which provides the second element in the 2003 prototype's name. Fangio and mechanic Zanardi took one of these cars to third place, behind a couple of Ferraris, in the 1950 Mille Miglia.

Jano, Fangio, the Mille Miglia, Le Mans and Spa - an impressive racing background, to go with impressive 21st-century styling and specification.

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