1934 Alfa Romeo 8C 2600
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The Alfa Romeo 8C 2600 is a sports car manufactured by the Italian automaker Alfa Romeo in the early 1930s. Built with an attention to detail that would become synonymous with all Alfa Romeo cars, the 8C 2600 is a masterpiece of engineering excellence.
The heart of the 8C 2600 is its engine - a 2.9-liter straight-eight with a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration. This powerplant was revolutionary at the time, with its compact design, and efficient and reliable performance. The engine was made of cast iron, and the heads were aluminum, to keep the weight of the car low. The engine produced 105 kW (142 hp), making it a real powerhouse, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just over 10 seconds.
Another unique feature of the Alfa Romeo 8C 2600 was its suspension system. The front suspension was an independent type, featuring double wishbones, a transverse leaf spring, and hydraulic dampers. The rear suspension was a live axle setup, supported by semi-elliptical leaf springs and matched by hydraulic dampers. These systems provided maximum stability on the road and combined with the low center of gravity, the 8C 2600 was considered a very nimble and agile car to drive.
The brakes on the 8C 2600 were hydraulic drums on all four wheels, with a servo-assist system to control the stopping power. Considering that the car was built in the 1930s, the braking power was considered very impressive at the time.
The body of the Alfa Romeo 8C 2600 was designed by Carrozzeria Touring, an Italian coachbuilding firm that worked closely with Alfa Romeo. The body was made with aluminum panels, which not only ensured a light weight but also provided excellent aerodynamics.
In terms of performance, the Alfa Romeo 8C 2600 could reach a top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h), which was unheard of at the time. When it was first introduced, it was the fastest road car in the world.
All in all, the Alfa Romeo 8C 2600 of 1934 is a prime example of Italian technical mastery and style. With its low center of gravity, unique suspension system, revolutionary engine and impressive speed, it is easy to see why this car is regarded as a true classic of automotive design.
Milestones
- Introduced in 1934 as the top-of-the-line model of Alfa Romeo's production line - Featured a 2.6-liter inline six-cylinder engine with dual overhead cams and three Weber carburetors - Designed by Vittorio Jano, one of Alfa Romeo's most talented engineers - Produced in various body styles, including Spider, Touring, and Zagato - Won numerous racing victories, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1938 - Considered one of the most elegant and advanced sports cars of its era - Ceased production in 1954, after over 500 units were produced - Remains highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts today.Technical
• Production years: 1934-1937 • Engine: 2,584 cc DOHC inline-six engine • Power output: 90 horsepower at 4,800 rpm • Top Speed: 122 mph (196 km/h) • Transmission: 4-speed manual • Suspension: independent suspension with leaf springs and hydraulic dampers • Brakes: hydraulic drum brakes all around • Steering: worm and sector • Body: aluminum body on a steel frame • Dimensions: 4.34 m (14.24 ft) long, 1.56 m (5.12 ft) wide, 1.27 m (4.17 ft) tall • Wheelbase: 2.75 m (9.02 ft) • Weight: 1,050 kg (2,315 lb) • Variants: Spider, Touring, Short Chassis SpiderRelated manufacturer
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