Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 A Coach

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Description

The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 A Coach is one of the most celebrated pre-war automobiles, combining exceptional engineering, innovative design, and unmatched luxury. Introduced in 1935, the 8C 2900 series represented the pinnacle of Alfa Romeo’s technological and design capabilities during the 1930s. The “A” designation signified the first series of the 8C 2900, primarily built as competition cars, while the Coach variants were rare, bespoke creations tailored for the most discerning clientele.

At its core, the 8C 2900 A Coach was powered by a 2.9-liter straight-eight engine derived from Alfa Romeo’s Grand Prix cars. Designed by Vittorio Jano, the engine featured dual overhead camshafts, dry-sump lubrication, and a twin Roots-type supercharger, producing around 220 horsepower. This immense power allowed the car to reach top speeds of over 130 mph, making it one of the fastest road cars of its time. A four-speed manual transmission delivered the power with precision, offering smooth and responsive performance.

The chassis was built on an advanced tubular steel frame, developed for both strength and lightness. The suspension system was groundbreaking, with independent front and rear suspension using transverse leaf springs and trailing arms. This innovative setup provided exceptional handling and ride quality, a significant advancement over the solid axle designs of the era. Hydraulic drum brakes at all four corners ensured reliable stopping power.

The “Coach” designation referred to custom-bodied versions of the 8C 2900 A, crafted by renowned coachbuilders such as Touring and Pinin Farina. Each car was a masterpiece of automotive artistry, with unique designs tailored to the preferences of individual clients. The bodies featured flowing lines, sweeping fenders, and elegant proportions, combining aerodynamic efficiency with timeless beauty. The long hood and low-profile stance emphasized the car’s power and performance, while details like chrome accents and meticulously crafted grilles added a touch of sophistication.

Inside, the 8C 2900 A Coach was equally luxurious, with interiors hand-finished to the highest standards. Premium materials, including leather upholstery and polished wood trim, adorned the cabin, creating an environment of unparalleled elegance. The dashboard was equipped with precise instruments and controls, reflecting the car’s dual purpose as both a high-performance machine and a grand tourer.

Though primarily intended for competition, the 8C 2900 A Coach excelled in both racing and road use. It achieved legendary status in motorsport, particularly at events like the Mille Miglia, where it dominated the competition. Drivers like Tazio Nuvolari and Carlo Pintacuda demonstrated the car’s incredible speed and agility, solidifying its place as one of the greatest racing cars of the era.

With only a limited number of 8C 2900 A models produced, the Coach variants are among the rarest and most valuable pre-war cars today. Each example is a unique testament to Alfa Romeo’s commitment to excellence in engineering and design. Highly sought after by collectors, these cars are frequently featured at prestigious concours d’elegance and historic racing events, where they continue to captivate audiences with their extraordinary legacy and timeless appeal.

Additional information

Manufacturer

Alfa Romeo

Country

Italy

Production Started

1935

Production Stopped

1937

Vehicle Type

Bodystyle

Tudor

Number of Doors

2

Number of Seats

4

Top Speed

137 mph (220 kph)

0-60 mph (0-100 kph)

Power

162 / 220 / 217 @ 5300 rpm

Torque

Engine Manufacturer

Alfa Romeo

Engine

Inline 8

Engine Location

Front

Engine Displacement

2905 cc (176.4 cu in)

Valvetrain

DOHC

Valves per Cylinder

Bore / Stroke

68 x 100 mm (2.677 x 3.937 in)

Compression Ratio

6.5:1

Cooling System

Water

Charging System

Fuel Type

Petrol

Fuel System

Carburator, 2 x Weber

Aspiration

Supercharged, 2 x Roots

Fuel Capacity

Drive

Rear

Transmission

M4

Steering

Front Brakes

Rear Brakes

Front Suspension

Rear Suspension

Tyre Dimensions

Chassis

Weight

1150 kg (2535 lb)

Length

Width

Height

Wheelbase

2720 mm (107.1 in)