With a racing heritage that dates back to the early 1930s and exclusivity on par with the Ferrari Enzo, the 2009 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione is at the forefront of automotive prominence. The 8C appellation is derived from the straight 8-cylinder engine found in Alfa Romeos from 1931 to 1939. Today it refers to the stout V-8 working beneath the carbon fiber front hood of the Competizione.

It is easy to admire the vehicle’s design. Pronounced curves along the body recall such 1960s-era Alfas as the Type 33 Stradale and the TZ, while the bobbed rear end is unabashedly modern. A triangular front grille, fender air vents, triple aspect headlights and big, circular taillights are signature styling traits that render the 8C instantly recognizable as an Alfa Romeo. The credit for design goes to Wolfgang Egger, who recently left Alfa to become Audi’s head of design.

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