1941 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B SPIDER CORSA SPERIMENTALE 'BALENA'
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The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Spider Corsa Sperimentale 'Balena' 1941 is a legendary sports car that represents the pinnacle of automotive engineering in the pre-World War II era. This car is a true masterpiece of Italian design, with a unique blend of beauty, power, and innovation that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world.
At the heart of this car is a powerful inline-8 engine, which is capable of delivering up to 270 horsepower at 5800 rpm. This engine was designed with racing in mind, and its performance is truly impressive, making it one of the most sought-after engines of its time. The engine is paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, which provides precise and responsive shifting, allowing the driver to fully immerse themselves in the driving experience.
The chassis of the Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Spider Corsa Sperimentale 'Balena' 1941 is made from lightweight and durable materials, including aluminum and magnesium. This ensures that the car is both agile and stable, even at high speeds. The suspension system is also specifically designed for racing, with adjustable shock absorbers and a rigid steering column that provides excellent feedback and control.
The exterior of this car is strikingly beautiful, with a sleek and aerodynamic design that is instantly recognizable. The body of the car is made from lightweight aluminum, which not only enhances its performance but also gives it a timeless elegance that is still admired today. The car's unique nickname, 'Balena' or 'Whale', comes from its distinctive front grille that resembles a whale's mouth.
The interior of the Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Spider Corsa Sperimentale 'Balena' 1941 is equally impressive, with a minimalist design that puts the focus on performance and function. The driver's seat is positioned low in the car, providing excellent visibility and a feeling of being at one with the vehicle. The dashboard and controls are simple and intuitive, yet advanced for their time, with a rev counter and speedometer located directly in front of the driver.
Overall, the Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Spider Corsa Sperimentale 'Balena' 1941 is a true marvel of automotive engineering. From its powerful engine and advanced suspension system to its beautiful and aerodynamic body, this car is a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of the Italian automotive industry during the pre-war years. Today, it is a cherished and sought-after collector's item, revered by car enthusiasts and admirers of classic design around the world.
Milestones
- The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B SPIDER CORSA SPERIMENTALE 'BALENA' was introduced in 1941. - It was equipped with a 2.9-liter inline eight-cylinder supercharged engine that produced 225 horsepower. - The 'BALENA' (Italian for "whale") was designed with a unique, streamlined body that resembled the shape of a whale, hence the nickname. - It featured a lightweight aluminum body that helped to improve performance. - The 'BALENA' was one of only four SPIDER CORSA SPERIMENTALE models ever built by Alfa Romeo. - The car competed in several races and rallies throughout Europe, including the Mille Miglia. - Its racing career was cut short due to World War II, and the car was hidden away in a private collection until the 1980s. - In 1985, the 'BALENA' was sold at auction for a record-breaking price of $4.4 million, making it one of the most expensive cars ever sold at the time. - Today, the car remains a rare and highly sought-after collector's item, with only a handful of examples still in existence.Technical
- Engine: 2.9-liter DOHC inline-eight, supercharged - Power output: approximately 220 hp - Top speed: over 140 mph - Transmission: 4-speed manual - Suspension: independent front with double wishbones, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs - Brakes: hydraulic drum brakes at all four corners - Wheelbase: 2,750 mm (108.3 in) - Length: 4,175 mm (164.4 in) - Width: 1,550 mm (61.0 in) - Height: 1,200 mm (47.2 in) - Weight: approximately 1,200 kg (2,645 lbs) - Production number: 2 (one original car and one replica) - Notable features: unique streamlined body designed by Luigi Chinetti, unpainted aluminum bodywork, exposed side exhaust pipes, "whale" tail rear end, raced in the Mille Miglia in 1940 and 1941.Related manufacturer
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