Image via Pixabay.
Performance is likely the first word that comes to mind when you hear the words Alfa Romeo (AR). From its early wins on the racetrack to its modern, class-leading developments, this brand produces incredible cars. But what else do you know about the iconic Italian automaker? We’ve rounded up a few fast facts here to pique your interest.
1. It Boasts French Roots
We can trace the beginnings of AR to 1906 in a Milan suburb. There, automaker Darracq established an Italian factory that produced French cars. The original brand name was Societa Italiana Automobil Darracq. But when the economy soured just a few years later, in 1910, an Italian aristocrat named Cavalier Ugo Stella acquired the business. Soon after Stella’s takeover, the automaker changed its name to Alfa, short for Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili, or Lombardian Car Factory. The Romeo comes from entrepreneur Nicola Romeo, who came onto the scene just in time to rescue the automaker.
2. World War I Play an Important Role in Its Identity
Many automakers pivoted at this time to supply munitions, hardware, and guns to their respective nations. But Alfa, having already experienced its own financial hardships, lacked the funds necessary to embrace wartime production. Into this foray entered Nicola Romeo. A smart and savvy engineer from Naples, he had the money to acquire the brand and the knowledge to build aircraft engines and portable compressors. The automaker at last became profitable, and Romeo added his own name to the brand – a move that would leave an enduring impression.
3. The Logo Combines Several Elements
The AR logo showcases a red cross and white field on its left side, borrowed from the Milanese coat of arms. Meanwhile, the man-eating snake on the right side represents the Visconti family crest – Milan’s former ruling dynasty.
4. A Government-Controlled Brand
You might be surprised to hear this, but the Italian government acquired control of AR in 1933. And the company remained in this position until 1986, when Fiat finally bought the brand.
5. A Push for Production
In the 1950s, after Europe had barely survived a second world war, AR focused on introducing more production vehicles. Chief of these were the 1900 and Giulietta, the latter of which remains the brand’s most iconic model. Brilliantly engineered from day one, the Giulietta’s twin-cam four-cylinder engine remained in production for roughly 40 years.
6. No Exports to the U.S. for Two Decades
AR stopped exporting cars to the U.S. in 1995, with the exception of about 100 8C Competizione models around 2007. This drought finally stopped in 2015, when AR once more resumed its exports. Today, models on this side of the Atlantic include the stunning 4C sports car, Stelvio crossover, and popular Giulia sedan.
No matter where you are, the AR brand is unmistakable. Stylish, sultry, and elegant, the lines on these cars are hard to miss – even in a crowd. If you’re in the market for a new car and want the perfect blend of luxury and comfort, or you simply want to turn heads everywhere you go, visit your nearest Alfa Romeo dealer today. Visit Carlock Motorcars Nashville for the latest from Alfa Romeo and the rest of your favorite luxury automotive manufacturers.
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