Alpine A110 returns as a lightweight retro-inspired sports car
The revived Alpine A110, revealed ahead of its Geneva Motor Show debut, combines a modern aluminium chassis with styling cues from the classic Berlinette.
Alpine has officially unveiled the production A110, marking the return of the historic nameplate after decades away. The new coupe, revealed ahead of its public debut at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, revives the Berlinette’s spirit with a blend of retro design and contemporary engineering.
The 2018 A110 sits on a bespoke aluminium platform, with the use of lightweight materials extending to the bodywork and even the seats, which weigh just over 13kg each. Alpine claims a kerb weight of 1,080kg for the Premiere Edition, keeping the car competitive among lightweight sports coupes. The flat underbody and rear diffuser are designed to optimise aerodynamics without resorting to large wings or spoilers.
Performance and powertrain
Power comes from a mid-mounted turbocharged four-cylinder engine driving the rear wheels. While Alpine has not released full technical details, official figures confirm a 0-100km/h time of 4.5 seconds, putting the A110 in direct competition with the Porsche Cayman. The car uses a dual-clutch automatic transmission, with no manual option announced at launch.
The first production run, called the Premiere Edition, will be limited to 1,955 units in reference to the year Alpine was founded. In France, the car is priced from €55,000, placing it squarely in the premium sports coupe market. Deliveries are expected to begin later in 2017, with further variants likely to follow.
Design and market positioning
Styling for the new A110 references the classic Berlinette, with round headlamps, a low nose and a compact, purposeful stance. Despite the retro cues, the car is entirely modern underneath, echoing the approach taken by other revived nameplates. The A110 is aimed at enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, agile alternative to established rivals like the Cayman and Alfa Romeo 4C.
Alpine has signalled global ambitions for the A110, with plans for markets beyond France. The company’s approach draws on both heritage and modern technology, hoping to carve out a niche in the sports car segment. For a look at the concept that previewed this return, see theRenault Alpine A110-50 Concept at Goodwood.
