What Is the 2019 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider?
Taking cues from its celebrated track heritage, the Alfa Romeo 4C is Italian designer wear in the sports car class. This ultralight two-door weighs less than 2,500 pounds and is available in convertible (Spider) form with minimalist interior furnishings. It’s powered by a 237-horsepower, turbocharged 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine that works with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 4C competes with the likes of the Jaguar F-Type and Porsche 718.
What’s New on the 2019 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider?
A backup camera, rear parking sensors and cruise control are now standard; they were previously available in the Convenience Group, which has been discontinued. A race-tuned suspension, carbon-fiber mirrors (with or without Italian flags) and a microfiber steering wheel are now stand-alone options instead of being included in track packages.
What Features in the 2019 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Are Most Important?
Extensive use of carbon fiber and aluminum make the 4C a bantamweight by today’s standards, and the tiny 1.7-liter engine belts out an impressive 237 hp. That makes for a zero-to-60-mph time of 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 160 mph, Alfa says. But it’s more important to understand what features the 4C doesn’t have: power steering, a cushy (or quiet) interior, up-to-date connectivity for your devices and luggage space for two. Likewise, the Spider’s effort-intensive removable soft-top has the effect of a Targa-style removable roof rather than a full, open-air convertible.
Should I Buy the 2019 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider?
This is a bare-knuckles sports car for someone who likes living on the edge and couldn’t care less about comfort, convenience or relaxed road trips. It’s a blast to drive when you can enjoy the impressive performance, but be prepared to give it your full-time attention, keeping both hands on the wheel, and be extremely forgiving about the lack of amenities you’d typically find in cars today. Also, be prepared to pay though the nose even if it is technically more affordable than other exotic, head-turning performance cars.
