December 21st 2014
Low-resolution spy shots taken in Italy have given us the best look yet at the upcoming convertible version of the mid-engined Alfa Romeo 4C.As expected, the spy shots reveal that the 4C Spider will be essentially identical to the 4C Spider Concept that bowed earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show but it will be equipped with an integrated roll bar and a removable roof panel made out of a lightweight material such as carbon fiber. While the 4C coupe features oft-criticized headlights that give it a bug-like look, the Spider will come standard with more conventional-looking units that will to be similar to the ones found on the concept. Interestingly, coupe buyers will be able to order their car with the more conventional units at no extra cost.
The 4C Spider will boast a driver-focused cockpit with two bucket seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and a configurable thin-film transistor (TFT) screen that will replace the instrument cluster. A/C will be offered as a no-cost option.
Power for the 4C Spider will come from a turbocharged and direct-injected 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine borrowed from the 4C coupe. It will send 240 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque to the rear wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, enough to propel the 4C Spider from zero to 60 mph in roughly 4.5 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Brembo brakes all around will bring the action to a stop.
The Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is expected to greet the public for the first time next March at the Geneva Motor Show.