Description
The Alpine Renault A610 Turbo, introduced in the early 1990s, was the final evolution of the Alpine GTA series and represented the pinnacle of Alpine’s rear-engine sports car design before the brand temporarily ceased production. It was developed as a high-performance grand tourer, blending refined aerodynamics, turbocharged power, and modernized styling with Alpine’s signature lightweight construction.
Under the hood, the A610 Turbo was powered by a 3.0-liter PRV V6 engine, enhanced with a Garrett turbocharger to produce around 250 horsepower. This allowed for a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in approximately 5.9 seconds and a top speed of around 265 km/h, making it one of the fastest Alpine models ever built. The power was transmitted to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox, providing an engaging and dynamic driving experience.
The design of the A610 Turbo maintained the recognizable Alpine silhouette but featured modernized elements such as pop-up headlights, an improved front fascia, and a more aerodynamic profile. The lightweight fiberglass body, coupled with a low drag coefficient, contributed to high-speed stability and efficiency. The car sat on a wider track than its predecessor, improving handling and road grip.
The suspension was tuned for both comfort and performance, utilizing independent double wishbones at the front and semi-trailing arms at the rear. Ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels ensured reliable stopping power, while power-assisted steering provided improved maneuverability.
Inside, the A610 Turbo offered a more refined and comfortable cabin than previous Alpine models. The interior featured leather upholstery, a driver-focused cockpit with an ergonomic dashboard, and upgraded materials that reflected its positioning as a premium sports coupe. It was also more practical than earlier Alpines, with improved visibility and a larger luggage compartment.
Despite its strong performance and refined design, the A610 Turbo struggled in the marketplace due to its high price and competition from more established sports car manufacturers. However, it remains a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item today, celebrated for its unique blend of Alpine’s racing heritage, innovative engineering, and turbocharged power.