Alfa Romeo Alfasud Sprint Race

Category:

Description

The Alfa Romeo Alfasud Sprint Race was a motorsport-oriented evolution of the Alfasud Sprint, designed to highlight the car’s inherent agility and performance potential on the track. While the standard Alfasud Sprint was already known for its sharp handling and responsive driving dynamics, the race-prepped versions took these attributes to another level, making them competitive in various touring car and rally events throughout Europe.

At the core of the Alfasud Sprint Race was its signature flat-four boxer engine, which underwent significant modifications to extract more power and enhance reliability under racing conditions. Depending on the specific series and regulations, these engines could produce well over 100 horsepower, with some heavily tuned examples reaching even higher outputs. Adjustments typically included high-compression pistons, performance camshafts, upgraded carburetors or fuel injection systems, and free-flow exhausts to improve both power and throttle response. The lightweight construction of the car, combined with the low center of gravity from the boxer engine, provided an excellent foundation for competitive racing.

The chassis and suspension systems were also extensively reworked. Reinforced body structures improved rigidity, while upgraded suspension components—such as stiffer springs, performance dampers, and adjustable anti-roll bars—ensured superior handling and cornering stability. The Alfasud Sprint Race models featured wider track widths, racing tires, and lightweight alloy wheels to maximize grip on various surfaces.

Aerodynamic enhancements were subtle but effective. Many race versions included front splitters, rear spoilers, and flared wheel arches to improve downforce and accommodate wider tires. Weight reduction played a critical role, with the removal of non-essential interior components, lightweight racing seats, and the addition of roll cages for driver safety and structural integrity.

Inside the cabin, the focus shifted entirely to functionality and safety. Stripped-down interiors featured racing harnesses, quick-release steering wheels, and comprehensive instrumentation to monitor engine performance. The minimalist approach reduced weight while creating an environment tailored for high-speed competition.

The Alfasud Sprint Race gained recognition in touring car championships, hill climb events, and rally stages across Europe, particularly excelling in classes where its front-wheel-drive layout and compact size gave it an edge on technical circuits. Its success on the track helped cement the Alfasud’s reputation as more than just an everyday car—it was a capable, spirited machine with genuine racing pedigree.

Today, race-prepped Alfasud Sprints are celebrated among vintage motorsport enthusiasts. Their rarity, coupled with Alfa Romeo’s storied racing heritage, makes them desirable collectibles, especially for those who appreciate the raw, analog thrill of classic touring car racing.

Additional information

Manufacturer

Alfa Romeo

Country

Italy

Production Started

1978

Production Stopped

1978

Vehicle Type

Bodystyle

Coupe

Number of Doors

3

Number of Seats

1

Top Speed

131 mph (210 kph)

0-60 mph (0-100 kph)

Power

99 / 135 / 133 @ 8200 rpm

Torque

Engine Manufacturer

Alfa Romeo

Engine

B4

Engine Location

Front

Engine Displacement

1286 cc (78.1 cu in)

Valvetrain

OHC

Valves per Cylinder

2

Bore / Stroke

80 x 64 mm (3.15 x 2.52 in)

Compression Ratio

Cooling System

Water

Charging System

Fuel Type

Petrol

Fuel System

Carburator, 2 x Weber

Aspiration

Normal

Fuel Capacity

Drive

Front

Transmission

M5

Steering

Front Brakes

Rear Brakes

Front Suspension

Rear Suspension

Tyre Dimensions

Chassis

Weight

790 kg (1742 lb)

Length

Width

Height

Wheelbase

2455 mm (96.7 in)