Alfa Romeo Alfasud

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Description

The Alfa Romeo Alfasud was a compact car produced between 1971 and 1989, representing a significant shift from Alfa Romeo’s traditional lineup of rear-wheel-drive performance vehicles. Designed to be both affordable and practical, it was engineered by Rudolf Hruska, a former Porsche designer, and built at a new factory in Pomigliano d’Arco, near Naples. The Alfasud became one of Alfa Romeo’s most successful models, recognized for its advanced engineering, lively driving dynamics, and innovative design.

A key feature of the Alfasud was its front-wheel-drive layout, a first for Alfa Romeo. It was powered by a flat-four (boxer) engine, with displacement ranging from 1.2 to 1.7 liters, producing between 63 and 118 horsepower depending on the version. The boxer engine’s low center of gravity contributed to excellent handling and stability. Fully independent suspension with MacPherson struts at the front and a well-engineered rear setup further enhanced its agility and responsive driving characteristics.

The car’s exterior was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign, featuring a sleek, aerodynamic shape with a sloping rear end that gave it a distinct profile. Inside, the Alfasud had a simple yet functional layout, with a driver-focused cockpit that provided good visibility and easy-to-use controls. Over the years, the model lineup expanded to include two- and four-door sedans, a three-door hatchback, and the sportier Alfasud Sprint, which featured a more aggressive coupe body style.

Despite its impressive design and driving experience, the Alfasud was plagued by rust issues due to poor-quality steel and inconsistent manufacturing processes at the Pomigliano plant. This significantly affected its reliability and long-term durability, although enthusiasts today appreciate well-maintained examples for their dynamic performance and historical importance.

The Alfasud laid the groundwork for Alfa Romeo’s future front-wheel-drive models, influencing cars like the 33, 145, and 147. It remains an iconic part of the brand’s history, representing an ambitious attempt to combine everyday practicality with Alfa Romeo’s signature sporty character.

Additional information

Manufacturer

Alfa Romeo

Country

Italy

Production Started

1971

Production Stopped

1980

Vehicle Type

Bodystyle

Hatchback

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

5

Top Speed

95 mph (153 kph)

0-60 mph (0-100 kph)

16.6 s

Power

46 / 63 / 62 @ 6000 rpm

Torque

90 / 66 @ 3200 rpm

Engine Manufacturer

Alfa Romeo

Engine

B4

Engine Location

Front

Engine Displacement

1186 cc (72 cu in)

Valvetrain

OHC

Valves per Cylinder

Bore / Stroke

80 x 59 mm (3.15 x 2.323 in)

Compression Ratio

8.8:1

Cooling System

Water

Charging System

Fuel Type

Petrol

Fuel System

Carburator, 1 x Weber

Aspiration

Normal

Fuel Capacity

Drive

Front

Transmission

M4

Steering

Front Brakes

Rear Brakes

Front Suspension

Rear Suspension

Tyre Dimensions

Chassis

Weight

830 kg (1830 lb)

Length

3890 mm (153.1 in)

Width

1590 mm (62.6 in)

Height

1370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase

2455 mm (96.7 in)