Alfa Romeo was founded on June 24, 1910, in Milan, Italy, as Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili (A.L.F.A.). The company was later renamed Alfa Romeo in 1918 after Nicola Romeo took control.
Throughout the 20th century, Alfa Romeo became known for its high-performance sports cars and racing heritage, winning numerous Grand Prix and endurance races. The brand was state-owned for much of its history until Fiat Group acquired it in 1986, leading to a revival in the 1990s.
Today, Alfa Romeo is part of Stellantis, continuing its legacy of Italian design, innovation, and motorsport excellence.
Alfa Romeo 155 (1992-98)
When the **Alfa Romeo 155** was introduced in **1992**, its purpose was to modernize Alfa Romeo’s **compact executive sedan lineup**, offering a blend of **performance, aerodynamics, and motorsport pedigree**. Designed by **I.DE.A Institute**, it featured a **sleek, boxy design** with an impressive **drag coefficient of 0.29**, improving efficiency and speed.
Expectations were high, as the **155** transitioned from **rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive**, a controversial move that improved **packaging and accessibility** but divided enthusiasts. Developed as part of the **Type Three project**, alongside the **Fiat Tempra and Lancia Dedra**, it introduced **Twin Spark and Busso V6 engines**, reinforcing Alfa’s reputation for **sporty driving dynamics**. Despite initial skepticism, the **155** gained recognition through **touring car racing success**, winning titles in **DTM, BTCC, and ITC**, which helped improve its image.
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Alfa Romeo 156 GTA (2001-2004)
When the Alfa Romeo 156 GTA was introduced in **2001**, its purpose was to revive the **GTA (Gran Turismo Alleggerita) legacy**, offering a **high-performance sports sedan** with **Italian styling and thrilling driving dynamics**. Alfa Romeo aimed to create a car that combined **everyday usability with motorsport-inspired engineering**, making it a standout among performance sedans.
Expectations were high, as the **3.2L Busso V6 engine** delivered **247 horsepower**, providing **sharp acceleration and a distinctive exhaust note**. The **aggressive styling, upgraded suspension, and Brembo brakes** reinforced its **track-ready character**, positioning it as a rival to **BMW’s M3 and Mercedes-Benz AMG models**. Despite its **front-wheel-drive layout**, the **156 GTA** was designed to deliver an **engaging and emotional driving experience**, staying true to Alfa Romeo’s heritage.
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Alfa Romeo 1600 Giulia Super (1962-1978)
When the Alfa Romeo 1600 Giulia Super was introduced in **1962**, its purpose was to redefine the **sports sedan segment**, offering a blend of **performance, practicality, and advanced engineering**. Alfa Romeo aimed to create a car that combined **everyday usability with racing-inspired dynamics**, making it a standout among compact sedans.
Expectations were high, as the **1.6L twin-cam engine**, **5-speed manual transmission**, and **disc brakes** provided **performance superior to many sports cars of the era**. The Giulia Super was designed to be **a driver’s car**, featuring **sharp handling, aerodynamic efficiency, and motorsport pedigree**, reinforcing Alfa Romeo’s reputation for **precision engineering and racing success**.
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Alfa Romeo 164 (1987-91)
When the Alfa Romeo 164 was introduced in **1987**, its purpose was to modernize Alfa Romeo’s **executive sedan lineup**, offering a blend of **luxury, performance, and aerodynamic design**. Styled by **Pininfarina**, it featured a **sleek wedge-shaped body**, setting a new design language for Alfa Romeo.
Expectations were high, as the **164** was Alfa Romeo’s first **front-wheel-drive executive sedan**, developed as part of the **Type Four project**, alongside the **Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema, and Saab 9000**. It introduced **Twin Spark and Busso V6 engines**, reinforcing Alfa’s reputation for **sporty driving dynamics**. The **164** was designed to compete with **BMW and Mercedes-Benz**, revitalizing Alfa Romeo’s image in the premium sedan market.
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Alfa Romeo 166 (1996-07)
When the Alfa Romeo 166 was introduced in **1996**, its purpose was to serve as **Alfa Romeo’s flagship executive sedan**, offering a blend of **luxury, performance, and Italian styling**. Designed by **Walter de Silva**, it featured a **sleek, distinctive design** aimed at competing with premium European sedans.
Expectations were high, as Alfa Romeo sought to challenge **BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi** in the executive car segment. The **166** introduced **powerful V6 engines, refined interiors, and advanced suspension**, reinforcing Alfa’s reputation for **sporty yet elegant driving dynamics**. Despite its **limited commercial success**, it remains a **cult classic**, appreciated for its **distinctive design and engaging driving experience**.
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Alfa Romeo 1750 GTV (1968-72)
When the Alfa Romeo 1750 GTV was introduced in **1968**, its purpose was to refine the **Giulia-based coupe lineup**, offering improved **performance, styling, and driving dynamics**. Alfa Romeo aimed to create a **sporty yet practical grand tourer**, blending **Italian craftsmanship with motorsport-inspired engineering**.
Expectations were high, as the **1.8L twin-cam engine** delivered **122 horsepower**, providing a balance of **power and drivability**. The **Bertone-designed body** featured **sleek lines and aggressive styling**, reinforcing Alfa Romeo’s reputation for **precision handling and racing pedigree**. It was designed to compete with European sports coupes while maintaining Alfa’s **distinctive character and driving excitement**.
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Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Coupe (1962-68)
When the Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Coupe was introduced in **1962**, its purpose was to serve as **Alfa Romeo’s flagship grand tourer**, offering a blend of **luxury, performance, and Italian craftsmanship**. Designed by **Giorgetto Giugiaro at Bertone**, it featured a **sleek coupe body**, making it one of the most stylish Alfa models of its time.
Expectations were high, as the **2600 Sprint** was equipped with a **2.6L twin-cam inline-six engine**, delivering **145 horsepower**—a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the **Alfa Romeo 2000**. It was designed to compete with European luxury coupes while maintaining Alfa’s **sporty DNA**. Despite its **high price and limited market success**, the **2600 Sprint Coupe** remains an important chapter in Alfa Romeo’s history, representing the brand’s **transition from exclusive grand tourers to more accessible performance cars**.
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Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16v (1990-92)
When the Alfa Romeo 33 1.7 Boxer 16V was introduced in **1990**, its purpose was to refine the **Alfa 33** with improved **performance, handling, and styling**, making it a more competitive hot hatch. Alfa Romeo aimed to create a car that combined **Italian character, sporty driving dynamics, and practicality**.
Expectations were high, as the **1.7L twin-cam, 16-valve boxer engine** delivered **137 horsepower**, making it one of the most powerful compact cars of its time. The facelift introduced **fuel injection, revised suspension, and styling updates by Walter de Silva**, enhancing its appeal. However, while the engine was praised for its **zestful power delivery**, the car struggled with **torque steer and handling flaws**.
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Alfa Romeo Alfasud Sprint (1978-83)
When the Alfa Romeo Alfasud Sprint was introduced in **1978**, its purpose was to offer a **sportier, more refined** version of the standard **Alfasud**, blending **Italian styling, agile handling, and everyday usability**. Designed by **Giorgetto Giugiaro**, it featured a **sleeker coupe body**, making it a more attractive option for enthusiasts.
Expectations were high, as Alfa Romeo aimed to create a **compact sports coupe** that retained the **Alfasud’s lightweight construction and boxer engine**, while improving **performance and driving dynamics**. It was designed to compete with European rivals while reinforcing Alfa Romeo’s reputation for **precision engineering and motorsport heritage**.
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Alfa Romeo Alfasud ti (I974-81)
When the **Alfa Romeo Alfasud Ti** was introduced in **1974**, its purpose was to offer a **sporty, performance-oriented version** of the standard Alfasud, blending **agility, affordability, and Italian driving excitement**. Alfa Romeo aimed to create a compact car that delivered **sharp handling and engaging performance**, making it a competitor to emerging hot hatches.
Expectations were high, as the **Ti (Turismo Internazionale)** variant featured **more powerful engines, sportier suspension, and aggressive styling**, setting it apart from the standard Alfasud. It was designed to appeal to enthusiasts who wanted a **fun-to-drive, lightweight car** with Alfa Romeo’s signature engineering. Despite its **rust issues**, the Alfasud Ti was praised for its **nimble handling and lively character**, influencing future sporty compact cars.
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Alfa Romeo Alfetta GTV 2000 (1976-80)
When the Alfa Romeo Alfetta GTV 2000 was introduced in **1976**, its purpose was to offer a **sporty, high-performance coupe** that combined **Italian styling, advanced engineering, and engaging driving dynamics**. Alfa Romeo aimed to create a car that appealed to enthusiasts while maintaining everyday usability.
Expectations were high, as the GTV 2000 featured a **transaxle layout** for improved weight distribution, a **2.0L twin-cam engine**, and a **De Dion rear suspension**, enhancing handling and stability. It was designed to compete with European sports coupes while reinforcing Alfa Romeo’s reputation for **precision engineering and motorsport heritage**.
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Alfa Romeo Brera (2005-10)
The **Alfa Romeo Brera (2005-2010)** was introduced with the purpose of reinforcing Alfa Romeo’s reputation for **bold design and Italian craftsmanship**. Originally unveiled as a **concept by Giugiaro in 2002**, the production model retained much of its striking aesthetics, aiming to offer a **premium coupe experience**.
Expectations were high—Alfa Romeo positioned the Brera as a **stylish grand tourer**, blending **luxury and performance**. It shared its platform with the **Alfa Romeo 159**, ensuring a refined driving experience, though its weight slightly impacted agility. The **3.2L V6 with all-wheel drive** was meant to deliver engaging performance, but critics noted it lacked the raw sportiness of earlier Alfa coupes.
Despite this, the Brera succeeded in **showcasing Alfa Romeo’s design prowess**, appealing to enthusiasts who valued **exclusivity and aesthetics** over outright speed. It remains a **cult favorite**, admired for its **distinctive styling and presence**.
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Alfa Romeo GTV (1995-2005)
The Alfa Romeo GTV (Gran Turismo Veloce) was introduced in 1995 with the purpose of revitalizing Alfa Romeo's image as a manufacturer of sporty and stylish cars. The GTV was designed to be a 2+2 coupé that combined performance, elegance, and advanced technology. Alfa Romeo aimed to compete with other European sports cars by offering a vehicle that not only looked stunning but also delivered an exhilarating driving experience.
Expectations were high for the GTV, as it was seen as a key model to reestablish Alfa Romeo's reputation in the sports car market. The car featured a range of powerful engines, including the 2.0 TS and 2.0 V6 Turbo, and was built on a modified Fiat Group platform with a new multilink rear suspension. At its launch, many journalists praised the improved build quality and noted that it came very close to equalling its German rivals.
Overall, the Alfa Romeo GTV was expected to attract enthusiasts who valued both performance and design, and it played a significant role in enhancing Alfa Romeo's brand image during its production years from 1995 to 2005.
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Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GT (1963-66)
The Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GT (1963-66) was introduced as a stylish, performance-oriented coupe designed to bring Italian engineering and driving excitement to a broader audience. It was the first model in Alfa Romeo’s 105 Series, featuring a lightweight chassis, advanced suspension, and a powerful twin-cam engine.
Purpose & Expectations
- **Sporty yet Practical**: Alfa Romeo aimed to create a **compact grand tourer** that balanced **daily usability with racing pedigree**.
- **Competitive Performance**: With a **1.6L twin-cam engine**, five-speed gearbox, and **all-round disc brakes**, it was expected to outperform rivals like the **BMW 1600 and Ford Lotus Cortina**.
- **Global Appeal**: Alfa Romeo positioned the Sprint GT as an **affordable entry into Italian sports cars**, targeting enthusiasts in **Europe and North America**.
- **Motorsport Success**: The Sprint GT laid the foundation for the **GTA racing variant**, which became a dominant force in **touring car championships**.
The Sprint GT exceeded expectations, becoming one of Alfa Romeo’s most iconic models, praised for its handling, design, and racing success.
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Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider (1955-62)
The **Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider (1955-62)** was introduced as a stylish, lightweight roadster designed to expand Alfa Romeo’s presence in the **American market**. It was developed following a request from **Max Hoffman**, a key U.S. importer, who saw the potential for a **small, elegant Italian sports car** that could compete with British and German roadsters - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/cars/alfa-romeo-giulietta-spider-1955.html).
**Purpose & Expectations**
- **Expand Alfa Romeo’s Global Reach**: The Spider was intended to strengthen Alfa Romeo’s foothold in the **U.S. market**, where demand for European sports cars was growing.
- **Appeal to Enthusiasts**: With its **Pininfarina-designed body**, lightweight construction, and **1.3L twin-cam engine**, it was expected to deliver a **thrilling driving experience**.
- **Compete with Rivals**: Alfa Romeo positioned the Spider against cars like the **MG MGA** and **Porsche 356**, offering a blend of **performance, style, and affordability**.
- **Boost Brand Prestige**: The Spider reinforced Alfa Romeo’s reputation for **engineering excellence and Italian craftsmanship**, helping to establish the brand as a serious contender in the sports car segment.
The Giulietta Spider exceeded expectations, becoming a **sales success**, particularly in the U.S., and laying the foundation for Alfa Romeo’s future roadsters.
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Alfa Romeo Mito (2008-2018)
Recorded in UK 2025
In **2025**, Alfa Romeo is expected to break its annual sales record, with projections indicating **80,000–90,000 units globally**. However, UK-specific figures are harder to pinpoint. In **2024**, Alfa Romeo sold around **1,666 units** in the UK, showing a slight increase from the previous year.
If you're looking for specific numbers on the **MiTo**, it seems Alfa Romeo is shifting focus towards a **small electric SUV** as an indirect replacement.
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