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Photo: Alfa Romeo
This year marks the 100th anniversary of Alfa Romeo’s iconic Quadrifoglio models, younger only than the Italian supercar specialist itself by just over a decade.
It is a longstanding powerhouse in the world of luxury motorcars and especially Alfa Romeo’s racing roots. After all, its introduction in 1923 for the Targa Florio – a legendary and now-discontinued endurance race in Sicily – was instrumental in pushing the marque to the forefront of the automobile racing world. It was also the vehicle that delivered several championship trophies to the brand across several high-profile racing circuits, including Targa Florio and Le Mans.
The story behind the Quadrifoglio explains why the marque is now bestowing upon the Giulia and Stelvio – the saloon and SUV (sports utility vehicle) versions respectively – limited edition birthday kits with extra horsepower, updated handling and some fancy new trimmings.
Decked out in gold
Photo: Alfa Romeo
These come by way of adaptive LED headlights and exclusive gold brake calipers hidden behind dark sport-alloy rims. The very same precious metal features again on the mudguards, a la gold-trimmed special-edition Quadrifoglio emblems.
There is yet more gold on the inside too, once you get past the raw carbon-fibre finish of the front grilles and mirror caps. Think golden stitching contrasted with carbon-fibre trim on the instrument panel, central tunnel and door panels. The centrepiece on the dashboard bears the number 100 next to a Quadrifoglio. Obviously, these are both in gold too.
Boosted engine specs
Photo: Alfa Romeo
The engine specs have been given a boost too in recognition of the special occasion. The 100th anniversary Quadrifoglios produce 520hp, a bump up from the already speedy 505hp available with the stock models.
This is paired with another new feature – a mechanical limited slip differential, which the brand says improves the car’s “behaviour and traction” when taking corners at speed.
Only 100 of each version will be made, meaning that there will be 200 limited-edition models in total. These will be spread out amongst the marque’s customers and made available for ordering later this year.
