First Drive: Alfa Romeo 8C Spider

A lot more than an 8C Competizione without a roof. Now that production of the coupe has stopped (the last example was delivered in January), deliveries of the Spider are beginning at last. Mindful of the different type of customer likely to be attracted to the Spider, Alfa Romeo has gone for a softer set-up with the car, while doing all it can to minimise its inevitable weight gain and maintain driving pleasure.

To this end the roof is a simple fabric affair which has to be manually released from the windscreen. It folds back and sits slightly messily behind the car, where the front panel acts as its own tonneau.

Extra reinforcement has been necessary both under the bonnet, where a massive cross brace has appeared, and under the car, but 14kg is saved by the standard fitment of carbon ceramic brakes.

david999 - 7/16/2009 12:23:53 PM

+3 Boost

A true sports car with the looks to match.

Anthony - 7/16/2009 8:08:39 PM

+3 Boost

I don't know why people ranked your comment down, but I agree with you.

Willis - 7/16/2009 2:42:59 PM

+3 Boost

Are we getting Alfa? Yes or no? Because I seriously want this thing. Alfa Romeos are just so gorgeous. I couldn't care less what those idiots at Consumer Reports say.

Alfa Romeos are emotional buys. They excite me.

bfghemicuda - 7/16/2009 11:49:51 PM

+2 Boost

YES

I95SPEEDINGTICKETS - 7/16/2009 9:17:40 PM

0 Boost

Cut the crap people

This Spyder looks nothing near as good as the Coupe Did

Not to mention the coupe was not that good a driver so with all the Rigidity loss and extra weight gain, this would be even worse to drive.