Unveiled: Alfa Romeo's Sprint Restomod You Didn't Know You Needed Inspired by Group B's Lost Legend
Get ready to have your mind blown by the latest masterpiece from Portuguese engineering firm, Alma. The Alfa Romeo Sprint Restomod, a thrilling tribute to a Group B rally car that never made it to the dirt tracks, has been unleashed. Combining the timeless beauty of the classic Alfa Romeo Sprint with cutting-edge performance enhancements, this restomod is every car enthusiast's dream come true.
A Dream Revived
Step back to 1982, when Autodelta, Alfa Romeo's storied racing division, developed a unique, mid-engined Sprint prototype designed for the ferocious Group B rally series. The project, however, was shelved, leaving an indelible mark on the imaginations of rally fans and Alfa aficionados alike. Fast forward to today, and Alma has breathed new life into that dream with their stunningly crafted restomod, which features a modern interpretation of that cancelled rally beast.
Craftsmanship and Customization
The Alma Sprint is a breathtaking blend of past and future. Its composite body sports boxy fender extensions, custom bumpers, retro mirrors, and an integrated rear spoiler, all enhancing its aggressive stance. The quad round headlights, updated with modern Hella projectors housed in billet aluminum, give it a sinister, yet sophisticated, look. Inside, the cabin has been overhauled with Alcantara and corduroy upholstery, aluminum accents, and refined elements like the Zagato steering wheel and bespoke aluminum gear shifter. The repositioned steering wheel and new seats promise an optimized driving position, complemented by 4-point Sabelt harnesses for that authentic motorsport experience.
Power and Precision
While the Alma Sprint skips the original rally prototype's mid-mounted V6 Busso engine, it doesn’t pull any punches in the performance department. Its four-cylinder boxer engine, now bored out to 1.8 liters, features redesigned heads, forged pistons, custom camshafts, a bespoke valvetrain, and Dellorto carburetors. This potent setup delivers 158 hp, a significant boost over the standard Sprint models. Weighing just 880 kg (1,940 pounds), the power-to-weight ratio is impressive, ensuring an exhilarating drive. Additionally, the close-ratio five-speed manual gearbox can be optionally paired with a Torsen limited-slip differential on the front axle, maximizing traction and control.
Engineering Excellence
Alma's engineering prowess is evident in the Sprint's underpinnings. Adjustable dampers provide razor-sharp handling, while larger vented brakes with motorsport-grade components guarantee formidable stopping power. Each of the 20 units scheduled for production will be meticulously customized to its owner's specifications, ensuring that no two cars are exactly alike. Though pricing remains a closely guarded secret, the first deliveries are set to roll out in the third quarter of 2024. With an extended list of personalization options, Alma promises a truly bespoke automotive experience.
In a world where restomods often blend into one another, Alma's Alfa Romeo Sprint stands as a testament to creativity, engineering excellence, and a deep respect for automotive history. This isn't just a car; it's a rolling tribute to dreams deferred and the indomitable spirit of innovation.