Description
The Alfa Romeo Ondine was a unique version of the Renault Dauphine, rebadged and sold by Alfa Romeo in Italy during the early 1960s. At the time, Alfa Romeo was primarily known for producing sporty and high-performance cars, but the Ondine was part of a strategy to expand the brand’s offerings into the economy car market.
Mechanically, the Alfa Romeo Ondine remained nearly identical to the Renault Dauphine. It featured a rear-mounted 845 cc inline-four engine, producing around 32 horsepower, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. This setup allowed for modest performance, with a top speed of approximately 120 km/h (75 mph), making it suitable for urban commuting and everyday driving.
Visually, the car retained the Dauphine’s rounded, compact bodywork, which was known for its clean lines and simple elegance. Some subtle Alfa Romeo badging and trim details distinguished it from the standard Renault model. The interior was designed for practicality, offering seating for four and a minimalist dashboard layout.
The Alfa Romeo Ondine was a rare departure from the company’s traditional focus on performance cars, and it remains a little-known chapter in Alfa Romeo’s history. While it never achieved the same level of enthusiasm as Alfa Romeo’s sports cars, it served as an interesting example of the brand’s brief venture into more affordable, everyday vehicles.