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Alfa Romeo 6C

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Alfa Romeo 6C
Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Touring Berlina
Overview
ManufacturerAlfa Romeo
Production1927–1954
AssemblyPortello, Milan, Italy
Body and chassis
ClassLuxury car, Sports car, Racing car
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Powertrain
EngineStraight-six
Chronology
PredecessorAlfa Romeo RM
SuccessorAlfa Romeo 1900

The Alfa Romeo 6C name was used on road, race, and sports cars produced between 1927 and 1954 by Alfa Romeo; the "6C" name refers to six cylinders of the car's straight-six engine. Bodies for these cars were made by coachbuilders such as James Young, Zagato, Touring, Castagna, and Pininfarina. Starting from 1933 there was also a 6C version with a factory Alfa body, built in Portello. In the early 1920s Vittorio Jano got a task to create a lightweight, high performance vehicle to replace the Giuseppe Merosi designed RL and RM models. The car was introduced in April 1925 at the Salone dell’ Automobile di Milano as the 6C 1500. It was based on the P2 racing car, using single overhead cam 1,487 cc inline six-cylinder motor producing 44 horsepower, in the 1928 was presented the 1500 Sport which was the first Alfa Romeo road car with double overhead camshafts.

6C 1500 (1927–1929)

Alfa Romeo 6C 1500
6C 1500 Super Sport 1929 from Louwman Collection
Overview
Production1927–1929
Powertrain
Engine1.5 L (1,487 cc) I6
1.5 L (1,487 cc) supercharged I6
Transmission4-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase
  • 2,900 mm (114.2 in) 4-seater[1]
  • 3,100 mm (122.0 in) 6-str., Normale[1]
  • 2,920 mm (115.0 in) Sport, S.S.[2]

In the mid-1920s, Alfa's RL was considered too large and heavy, so a new development began. The 2-liter formula that had led to Alfa Romeo winning the Automobile World Championship in 1925, changed to 1.5 liter for the 1926 season. The 6C 1500 was introduced in 1925 at the Milan Motor Show, production started 1927,[3] with the P2 Grand Prix car as starting point. Engine capacity was now 1487 cc, against the P2's 1987 cc, while supercharging was dropped. First versions were bodied by Young and Touring.

In 1928, a 6C Sport was released, with a dual overhead camshafts engine. Its sport version won many races, including the 1928 Mille Miglia. Total production was 3000 (200 with DOHC engine). Ten copies of a supercharged (compressore, compressor) Super Sport variant were also made.[4]

  • 6C 1500 Drophead Coupe by James Young (1928)
    6C 1500 Drophead Coupe by James Young (1928)
  • 6C 1500 Sport Zagato Spider (1928)
    6C 1500 Sport Zagato Spider (1928)

Specifications

Model Years Crankcase/block/head
construction		 Valvetrain Compr.
ratio		 Fuel system Peak power Top speed
Normale[1] 1927–29 Alum./iron, monobloc SOHC 5.75:1 Single carburettor 44 bhp (33 kW) at 4,200 rpm 110 km/h (68 mph)
Sport[5] 1928–29 Alum./iron/iron DOHC 6.0:1 Single carburettor 54 bhp (40 kW) at 4,500 rpm 125 km/h (78 mph)
Super Sport[6] 1928–29 Alum./iron/iron DOHC 6.75:1 Twin choke carburettor 60 bhp (45 kW) at 4,800 rpm 125 km/h (78 mph)
Super Sport
Compressore[6]		 1928–29 Alum./iron/iron DOHC 5.25:1 Single carburettor, supercharger 76 bhp (57 kW) at 4,800 rpm 140 km/h (87 mph)
Super Sport
testa fissa[7]		 1928–29 Alum./iron, monobloc DOHC 5.25:1 Single carburettor, supercharger 84 bhp (63 kW) at 5,000 rpm 155 km/h (96 mph)

Production

Alfa Romeo 6C 1500, production by model[8]
Model 4-seater 6-seater Normale Sport Super Sport
Compressore		 Super Sport Total
Series I I II II II II I–II
Prod. years 1927–28 1927–28 1928–29 1928–29 1929 1929 1927–29
Prod. number 56 506 300 171 15 10 1,058

6C 1750 (1929–1933)

Alfa Romeo 6C 1750
6C 1750 Super Gran Sport Testa Fissa (1931)[9]
Overview
Production1929–1933
Body and chassis
Body style
Powertrain
Engine1.7 L (1,752 cc) I6
1.7 L (1,752 cc) supercharged I6
Transmission4-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase
  • 3,100 mm (122.0 in) Turismo[10]
  • 2,920 mm (115.0 in) Sport, G.T.[11]
  • 3,160 mm (124.4 in) G.T. Compr.[12]
  • 2,745 mm (108.1 in) S.S., G.S.[13]

The more powerful 6C 1750 (1752 cc actual) was introduced in 1929 in Rome. The car featured a top speed of 95 mph, a chassis designed to flex and undulate over wavy surfaces, as well as sensitive geared-up steering.[14] It was produced in six series between 1929 and 1933. Base model had a single overhead cam; Super Sport and Gran Sport versions had double overhead cam engine (DOHC). Again, a supercharger was available. Most of the cars were sold as rolling chassis and bodied by coachbuilders such as Zagato, and Touring. Additionally, there were 3 examples built with James Young bodywork, one of which is a part of the permanent collection at the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum in Philadelphia, PA, USA in original, unrestored condition.[14]

In 1929, it won every major racing event it was entered, including the Grands Prix of Belgium, Spain, Tunis and Monza, as well as the Mille Miglia was won with Giuseppe Campari and Giulio Ramponi, the Brooklands Double Twelve and the Ulster TT was won also, in 1930 it won again the Mille Miglia and Spa 24 Hours.[15] Total production was 2635.

Specifications

Model Years Crankcase/block/head
construction		 Valvetrain Compr.
ratio		 Fuel system Peak power Top speed
Turismo[10] 1929–33 Alum./iron/iron SOHC 5.5:1 Single carburettor 46 bhp (34 kW) at 4,000 rpm 110 km/h (68 mph)
Sport[11] 1929 Alum./iron/iron DOHC 5.75:1 Single carburettor 55 bhp (41 kW) at 4,400 rpm 125 km/h (78 mph)
Gran Turismo[11] 1930–32
Gran Turismo
Compressore[12]		 1931–32 Alum./iron/iron DOHC 5.0:1 Single carburettor, supercharger 80 bhp (60 kW) at 4,400 rpm 135 km/h (84 mph)
Super Sport[16] 1929 Alum./iron/iron DOHC 6.25:1 Twin choke carburettor 64 bhp (48 kW) at 4,500 rpm 130 km/h (81 mph)
Super Sport
Compressore[16]		 1929 Alum./iron/iron DOHC 5.0:1 Single carburettor, supercharger 85 bhp (63 kW) at 4,500 rpm 145 km/h (90 mph)
Gran Sport[16] 1930–32
Super Sport
testa fissa[17]		 1929 Alum./iron, monobloc DOHC 5.0:1 Single carburettor, supercharger 85 bhp (63 kW) at 4,800 rpm 165 km/h (103 mph)
Gran Sport
testa fissa[17]		 1930–32 102 bhp (76 kW) at 5,000 rpm 170 km/h (110 mph)
Gran Sport[18] 1933 Alum./iron/alum. DOHC 5.0:1 Single carburettor, supercharger 85 bhp (63 kW) at 4,500 rpm 135 km/h (84 mph)

Production

Alfa Romeo 6C 1750, production by model[8]
Model Turismo Sport Gran Turismo Gran Turismo
Compressore		 Super Sport Gran Sport Total
Series III, IV III IV, V IV III IV, V, VI III–VI
Prod. years 1929–33 1929 1930–32 1932 1929 1930–33 1929–33
Prod. number 1,131 268 652 159 112 257 2,579

6C 1900 (1933)

Alfa Romeo 6C 1900
6C 1900 Gran Turismo at Auto e Moto d'Epoca 2008
Overview
Production1933
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
2-door cabriolet
Powertrain
Engine1,917 cc DOHC I6
Transmission4-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,920 mm (115.0 in)[19][20]
Kerb weight1,250 kg (2,756 lb) saloon[19][20]

The Alfa Romeo 6C 1900 was the last derivative of the original 6C 1500, produced in 197 examples during 1933, as a transitional model before the new 6C 2300 was introduced the following year.[20] Only made in Gran Turismo guise with a 2,920 mm (115.0 in) wheelbase, the 6C 1900 replaced the corresponding 6C 1750 model.[21] Besides the larger displacement, other notable mechanical changes were aluminium cylinder heads, an improved frame and a new transmission. The same upgrades were applied to the 1933 model 6C 1750 Gran Sport, which together with the 6C 1900 forms the sixth series of the 6C. Alfa Romeo offered the 6C 1900 with an in-house 4-door saloon body; while bespoke coachbuilt body styles included 4-seat cabriolets.[22]

The double overhead camshaft, naturally aspirated straight-six engine was bored from 66 mm (2.6 in) to 68 mm (2.7 in), bringing displacement to 1,917 cc (117.0 cu in).[21] For the first time on a 6C the cylinder head was aluminium;[21] some engines were also manufactured using an aluminium block with pressed-in steel sleeves in place of the usual cast iron block.[20] With 68 bhp (51 kW) at 4,500 rpm the 6C 1900 could achieve a top speed of 130 km/h (81 mph).[20] The improved frame consisted of fully boxed rails and crossmembers, instead of the 1750s C-shaped sections.[20] A new four-speed gearbox was fitted, with synchromesh on the two top gears and a freewheel mechanism.[20]

Specifications

Model Years Crankcase/block/head
construction		 Valvetrain Compr.
ratio		 Fuel system Peak power Top speed
Gran Turismo[20] 1933 Alum./iron/alum. DOHC 6.25:1 Single carburettor 68 bhp (51 kW) at 4,500 rpm 130 km/h (81 mph)

Production

Alfa Romeo 6C 1900,
production by model[8]
Model Gran Turismo Total
Series VI VI
Prod. years 1933 1933
Prod. number 197 197

6C 2300 (1934–1937)

Alfa Romeo 6C 2300
6C 2300B Touring
Overview
Production1934–1937
Powertrain
Engine2.3 L 2309 cc I6

The 6C 2300 (2309 cc) was designed by Vittorio Jano as a lower-cost alternative to the 8C. In 1934 Alfa Romeo had become a state-owned enterprise. This year was presented a new 6C model with a newly designed, larger engine. Chassis technology, however, had been taken from the predecessor. One year later, a revised model, called the 6C 2300 B was presented. In this version the engine was placed in a completely newly designed chassis, with individual front suspension and rear swing axle, and hydraulic brakes. The 6C-2300 was produced in 760 copies with rigid axles and 870 copies of the B-model.

Specifications

Model Engine Max power Fuel system Top speed Years Number produced
6C 2300 Turismo 2,309 cc (140.9 cu in) DOHC I6 68 bhp (51 kW) @ 4400 rpm single carburetor 120 km/h (75 mph) 1934
6C 2300 Gran Turismo 2,309 cc (140.9 cu in) DOHC I6 76 bhp (57 kW) @ 4400 rpm single carburetor 130 km/h (81 mph) 1934
6C 2300B Gran Turismo 2,309 cc (140.9 cu in) DOHC I6 76 bhp (57 kW) @ 4400 rpm single carburetor 130 km/h (81 mph)[23] 1935–1937
6C 2300 Pescara 2,309 cc (140.9 cu in) DOHC I6 95 bhp (71 kW) @ 4500 rpm double carburetor 145 km/h (90 mph)[24] 1934 60[25]
6C 2300B Pescara 2,309 cc (140.9 cu in) DOHC I6 95 bhp (71 kW) @ 4500 rpm double carburetor 145 km/h (90 mph)[26] 1935–1937 120[27]
6C 2300 B Corto/Lungo 2,309 cc (140.9 cu in) DOHC I6 - - - 1935
6C 2300 B Mille Miglia 2,309 cc (140.9 cu in) DOHC I6 - - -
  • 6C 2300 Pescara 1934
    6C 2300 Pescara 1934
  • 6C 2300 Touring Spider
    6C 2300 Touring Spider
  • 6C 2300B Mille Miglia Spider (1938 )
    6C 2300B Mille Miglia Spider (1938 )
  • 6C 2300B Pescara Berlinetta (1937)
    6C 2300B Pescara Berlinetta (1937)
  • 6C 2300B Touring Superleggera Coupe
    6C 2300B Touring Superleggera Coupe
  • 6C 2300 S Touring Pescara Spider (1935) 1936 Mille Miglia entrant and ex Benito Mussolini car[28]
    6C 2300 S Touring Pescara Spider (1935)
    1936 Mille Miglia entrant and ex Benito Mussolini car[28]
  • 6C 2300 B "Pescara" (1937)
    6C 2300 B "Pescara" (1937)
  • 6C 2300B Ministeriale (1938 )
    6C 2300B Ministeriale (1938 )

Aerodinamica Spider

Alfa Romeo Aerodinamica Spider
The Aerodinamica Spider at the 2012 Goodwood Revival
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,800 mm (110.2 in)
Length4,750 mm (187.0 in)
Width1,720 mm (67.7 in)
Height1,030 mm (40.6 in)
Kerb weight950 kg (2,094 lb) (dry)

The Alfa Romeo Aerodinamica Spider was an one-off mid-engine streamlined prototype, built by brothers Gino and Oscar Jankovitz between 1935 and 1937 in Fiume (today Rijeka), and powered by an Alfa Romo 6C 2300 Turismo engine.[29] The construction of the car took many years, and the result differed somewhat from the earliest drawings, while retaining a strong ladder type chassis fitted with US-sourced suspension components. The Aerospider represents:

  • The first “modern” mid-engined sports car design.[citation needed]
  • The first mid-engined car with central driving position (albeit Lancia deposited a patent for a central driven design in 1934).[citation needed]
  • The first car designed to take account of newly developed principles of aerodynamics, to provide low-drag both externally and internally.[citation needed]
  • The first car which was designed for high speeds, by using a body which fully enveloped the underside of the car to reduce air turbulence beneath it and an aerodynamic front design to reduce front lift of the car[citation needed]

History

The brothers Jankovits were sons of the Alfa Romeo dealer in Fiume. As such, they came into ownership of a second hand 6C 2300 Turismo berlina built in 1934, chassis 700316, whose engine they retained for their own project of a mid-engined sports car. Between 1935 and 1937 the Jankovits out the construction carried; a “running chassis” could be registered in Fiume (number plate 2757 FM) tested, and subsequently modified.

The engine compartment of the Alfa Aerodinamica Spider

The no. 700316 6C 2300 tipo Turismo straight-six engine placed behind the driver was Alfa Romeo: 2,309 cc, iron block, light alloy head, chain-driven dual overhead camshafts, spur gears, wet sump lubrication. The Jankovits fitted exhaust pipes of equal length and improved intake of air to reduce the pressure drop. Later the engine was upgraded with three dual Weber 36 D 04 carburettors, a setup used on the 6C 2500 SS of 1939. The transmission was the 4-speed gearbox from the 6C 2300, mounted with a Hardy disc behind the engine. originally standard fitted which they removed and installed in its place a differential unit from a Lancia Lambda. A unique system pre-selector gear change system was also developed. The clutch was hydraulically assisted.

The ladder chassis was made by the specifically by the two brothers for the central-mounted engine, with straight rails from front to the rear end of the car; it was numbered 700316 as per engine number. In December 1935, the Jankovits' drawing of the front suspension still considered it being sprung either by torsion bars or transverse leaf spring. Eventually, a new design was made using an OM Mille Miglia pivot and modified 1935 Ford elements. The final suspension was all-independent, with “silent bloc” bushes; front it consisted of double wishbones, with a thick sheet steel (4 mm) upper wishbone, lever-arm Houdaille hydraulic dampers, longitudinal torsion bars, and lower location through a transverse leaf spring; at the rear of swing axles and radius arms, with a transverse leaf spring and longitudinal torsion bars.

Steering was worm and sector with Hardy disc. Brakes used a two-circuit hydraulic system (two fluid distributors and two master cylinders, one for the front and one for the rear), Lockheed-type duplex brakes from a 1938 Buick, 17-by-2-inch (432 mm × 51 mm) drums all round. An equaliser was fitted, which could avoid overbraking by changing the distribution of braking force between the front and rear brakes during driving. 5.50-18 racing crossply tyres were mounted on Alfa Romeo 18-inch Rudge-type wire wheels.

The Aerodinamica Spider at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed

The aerodynamic shape of the car was designed by Oscar Jankovits, probably inspired by contemporary aerodynamic theories such as Paul Jaray's,and built at the Jankovits garage between 1936 and 1937. It was an open three-seater with central driving position, with fully integrated wings (ponton styling). The bodyshell was streamlined to minimised turbulence in the air flow, fully enveloping the underbody and integrating door handles and lights. An horizontal radiator which made it possible to design an exceptionally low front profile for a pre-war car. Air inlets were positioned in zones of high air pressure, and hot air outlets from the engine and brakes in areas of low pressure. Top speed was over 140 mph (225 km/h).

During the Second World War the completed prototype remained hidden in the Jankovits’ garage in Fiume. After the conflict the Jankovits, in need of money, had to sell their car to an Anglo-American officer. On Christmas Eve 1946, with a temporary registration document, the two brothers drove the Aerospider through the border into Italy. Then the Alfa disappeared for about 20 years until it was rediscovered in England. In 1978 well-known Alfa Romeo historian Luigi Fusi put the then-owner of the car in contact with the Jankovits, and considered to buy the car for the Alfa museum. The acquisition failed, but the prototype did eventually return to Italy, 30 years after its birth, to be restored. While being red according to 1946 documents, it has been repainted blue, and then black by current owner, who also replaced the original windshield with a smaller one. The car still has its original licence plate and documents of registration.

6C 2500 (1938–1952)

Alfa Romeo 6C 2500
6C 2500 Villa d'Este
Overview
Production1938–1952
Powertrain
Engine2.5 L 2443 cc I6
Transmission4-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase3,250 mm (128.0 in) Turismo
3,000 mm (118.1 in) Sport
2,700 mm (106.3 in) Super Sport
Chronology
SuccessorAlfa Romeo 1900

Introduced in 1938, the 2500 (2443 cc) was the last 6C road car. World War II was coming and car development was stopped, but a few hundred 6C 2500s were built from 1940 to 1945. Postwar, the first new Alfa model was the 1946 6C 2500 Freccia d'Oro (Golden Arrow), of which 680 were built through 1951, with bodies by Alfa. The 2500 had enlarged engine compared to the predecessor model, this Vittorio Jano designed double overhead cam engine was available either one or three Weber carburetors. The triple carburetor version was used in the top of line SS (Super Sport) version. The 2443 cc engine was mounted to a steel ladder frame chassis, which was offered with three wheelbase lengths: 3,250 mm (128.0 in) on the Turismo, 3,000 mm (118.1 in) on the Sport and 2,700 mm (106.3 in) on the Super Sport. Various coachbuilders made their own versions of the 2500, but most of the bodyworks was made by Touring of Milan.[30]

The Tipo 256 was a racing version of 2500 made eight copies between 1939 and 1940 for Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.[30] It was made as Spider (convertible) and Berlinetta (coupe) Touring bodystyles. With power of 125 bhp (93 kW) it could achieve top speed of 200 kilometres per hour (120 mph).[31]

It was sold to wealthy customers like King Farouk, Alì Khan, Rita Hayworth, Tyrone Power, and Prince Rainier. One was also featured in The Godfather in 1972.[32][33]

The 2500 was one of the most expensive cars available at its own time.[30] The last 6C was produced in 1952, and was replaced by the 1900.

Specifications

Model Engine Max power Fuel system Top speed Years Number produced
6C 2500 Coloniale 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 90 bhp (67 kW) @ 4500 rpm single carburetor 127 km/h (79 mph) [34] 1939–1942 152
6C 2500 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 90 bhp (67 kW) @ 4600 rpm single carburetor - 1938–1949
6C 2500 Turismo 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 87 hp (65 kW) single carburetor - 1935–1937
6C 2500 Sport 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 95 bhp (71 kW) @ 4600 rpm (1939–1946)
90 bhp (67 kW) (1947–1952)		 single carburetor 155 km/h (96 mph) [35] 1939–1952 13
6C 2500 Super Sport 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 110 bhp (82 kW) @ 4800 rpm double carburetor 170 km/h (106 mph) (1939–1946)
165 km/h (103 mph) (1947–1951)[36]		 1939–1951 413 Coupés
6C 2500 Super Sport Corsa 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 120 bhp (89 kW) @ 4750 rpm[37] triple carburetor - 1939–1953
6C 2500 Sport Pininfarina 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 95 bhp (71 kW) @ 4600 rpm single carburetor 155 km/h (96 mph) [38] 1941–1943 8
6C 2500 Freccia d'Oro 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 90 bhp (67 kW) @ 4600 rpm single carburetor 155 km/h (96 mph) [39] 1946–1951 680
6C 2500 Villa d'Este 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 110 bhp (82 kW) @ 4800 rpm triple carburetor - 1949–1952 36
6C 2500 Gran Turismo 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 110 bhp (82 kW) @ 4800 rpm triple carburetor 170 km/h (106 mph) [40] 1950–1953
6C 2500 Competizione 2,443 cc (149.1 cu in) DOHC I6 145 bhp (108 kW) @ 5500 rpm triple carburetor 200 km/h (124 mph) [41] 1948

6C 2500 Freccia d'Oro

The 6C 2500 Freccia d'Oro (Golden Arrow) was the first postwar Alfa Romeo. 680 were built until 1951, with bodies by Alfa. The car was a Berlina bodystyle with 5-6 seats based on the 2500 Sport. It has a wheelbase of 3,000 millimetres (120 in) and it weights 1,550 kilograms (3,420 lb).[42] With a 4-speed manual gearbox this 90 bhp (67 kW) car could achieve a top speed of 155 kilometres per hour (96 mph).

6C 2500 Villa d'Este

The 6C 2500 Villa d'Este was introduced in 1949 and was produced until 1952, named for the Concorso d'Eleganza held in Villa d'Este;[43] a Touring Superleggera-bodied version won the prize. Villa d'Este was Alfa's last hand built model, only 36 examples made (including 5 cabriolets).

6C 2500 Coloniale

The 6C 2500 Coloniale was a staff car version of the third series 6c 2500.[44] It had been commissioned in 1938 by the Italian Ministry of Defense, for military use in the Italian colonies.[45] Two prototypes 6C 2500 Coloniale were manufactured in 1939. One of them was shipped to Italian East Africa, where Giambattista Guidotti[a] had been instructed to conduct testing in the harsh operational conditions. The car was the first to be manufactured using technology developed by the renowned Carrozzeria Touring, the Superleggera. The car had two spare wheels, a fuel tank of 120 litres and four additional reserves with a capacity of 70 litres of gasoline. In addition there was a locking differential, engaged from the dashboard by the driver. Regular production started in 1941, and the first batch of 150 vehicles was delivered between 1941 and 1942; afterwards production stopped due to the war events[45] Total production amounted to 150 series cars plus two prototypes.

6C 2500 Sport Pininfarina

The 2500 Pininfarina was manufactured during the Second World War on the 1943, when “Alfa Romeo” manufacture was adjusted to build technology for the needs of the army. The vehicles of the 1943 make only had their chassis and the transmission parts assembled on the production line, however, the body and interior design was done by the Italian design studio Pininfarina.

  • 6C 2500 Super Sport
    6C 2500 Super Sport
  • 6C 2500 Super Sport Corsa (1939)
    6C 2500 Super Sport Corsa (1939)
  • 6C Castagna Berlinetta (1939)
    6C Castagna Berlinetta (1939)
  • 6C 2500 SS Villa d'Este Carrozzeria Touring Berlinetta (1949)
    6C 2500 SS Villa d'Este Carrozzeria Touring Berlinetta (1949)
  • 6C 2500 SS Pinin Farina Cabriolet
    6C 2500 SS Pinin Farina Cabriolet
  • 6C 2500S Touring
    6C 2500S Touring
  • 6C 2500 SS Coupé Pininfarina
    6C 2500 SS Coupé Pininfarina
  • 6C 2500 Sport Touring Berlinetta (1939)
    6C 2500 Sport Touring Berlinetta (1939)

6C 3000 (1948–1954)

In 1948 a first Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 prototype was built.[46] It was a 5-6 passenger 4-door saloon car of the same class of the 6C 2500, but which could be built using more modern and economical manufacturing processes.[46]

Like its predecessor, the three-litre engine had a cast iron block, an aluminium head with hemispherical combustion chambers, two valves per cylinder, angled 90° and timed by directly acting, chain driven dual overhead camshafts. Fed by a twin-choke carburettor, it developed 120 PS (88 kW), sent to the rear wheels through a 4-speed all-synchromesh gearbox with a column-mounted shifter as on the 6C 2500. The car used unit body construction, had a wheelbase of 3.05 m (120 in) and a dry weight of 1,400 kg.[46] The all-independent suspension was of the double wishbone type with coil springs upfront, and trailing arm type with transverse torsion bars at the rear.[46]

After three prototypes had been made between 1948–49, the project was abandoned when market analysis and product planning suggested the development of a smaller four-cylinder car—the Alfa Romeo 1900.[46] Despite this, the 3-litre engine was developed for competition use and gave birth to a number sports racing cars during the first half of the 1950s: the 6C 3000 C50, 6C 3000 CM and 6C 3000 PR.

Specifications

Model Engine Displacement
Bore x stroke		 Compr.
ratio		 Carburettor(s) Peak power Top speed
6C 3000[46] I6 DOHC 2,955 cc
82.55 x 92 mm		 7.5:1 1x downdraught
twin-choke		 120 PS (88 kW) at 4,800 rpm 166 km/h (103 mph)
6C 3000 C50[47] 8.6:1 3x sidedraught
twin-choke		 168 PS (124 kW) at 6,000 rpm 226 km/h (140 mph)
6C 3000 CM[48] 3,495 cc
87 x 98 mm		 8.2:1 6x sidedraught
single-choke		 246 PS (181 kW) or 275 PS (202 kW) at 6,500 rpm 250 km/h (155 mph)
6C 3000 PR[49] 2,943 cc
87 x 83 mm		 — 6x sidedraught
single-choke		 260 PS (191 kW) at 7,000 rpm 260 km/h (162 mph)

6C 3000 C50

In 1950 a 6C 3000 engine from the prototypes was tuned for racing and installed in a 6C 2500 Competizione, which became the 6C 3000 C50.[47] Being based on a 6C 2500 chassis, the car had a ladder frame with a 2.50 m (98 in) wheelbase, and a dry weight of 870 kg (1,918 lb).[47] Three twin-choke carburettors and a raised compression ratio brought the output of the three-lithre straight six to 168 PS (124 kW).[47] This one-off racing car was entered at the 1950 Mille Miglia with number 740, driven by Sanesi and Bianchi; the car did not finish the race, as the two had to withdraw near Ferrara.[47]

6C 3000 CM

Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM
Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 PR
The 6C 3000 CM spider of Museo Storico Alfa Romeo at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2009
ConstructorAlfa Romeo
Technical specifications[50]
ChassisTube spaceframe with backbone
Suspension (front)Double wishbones, coil springs, hydraulic dampers, anti-roll bar
Suspension (rear)De Dion tube, torque arms, coil springs, hydraulic dampers
Wheelbase2.25 m (88.6 in) (CM)
2.20 m (86.6 in) (PR)
Engine3,495 cc (213.3 cu in) (CM)
2,943 cc (179.6 cu in) (PR)
Transmission5-speed, limited slip differential
Weight960 kg (2,116.4 lb) (CM coupé)
930 kg (2,050.3 lb) (CM spider)
920 kg (2,028.3 lb) (PR)
BrakesHydraulic, drums, rears inboard
Competition history

In 1952 engine parts of the 6C 3000 were used again on the 6C 3000 CM—for Competizione Maggiorata or Competition Enlarged Displacement. The propulsion system of this model comes from a project by Giuseppe Busso. It was different from his ancestor: it still used several components of the 3-litre engine from the 6C 3000 prototype, but as its name implied engine capacity was increased to 3,495 cc. The chassis was a tube frame based around a centre backbone; suspension was by Double wishbones and by a De Dion tube at the rear.[48] Six 6C 3000 CM were built: four coupés and two spiders, bodied by Carrozzeria Colli.[48][51][52]

Competition history

A coupé was driven by Juan Manuel Fangio and Giulio Sala to a second overall finish at the 1953 Mille Miglia.[48][53] For the Mille Miglia the engine had been tuned to put out 275 PS (202 kW).[48] Fangio was leading the race, but a problem with the steering forced him to slow down. Again with Fangio at the wheel, a spider won the 1st Gran Premio Supercortemaggiore held in Merano in 1953.[48]

Fate

With the end of its racing career, the 1953 Supercortemaggiore winner 6C 3000 CM spider was used by the Experience Department of Alfa Romeo for testing new components. Amongst them were disc brakes, installed in 1955 and are still present today on this vehicle,[48] part of the Museo Storico Alfa Romeo collection.

Alfa Romeo Superflow IV

The ex-1953 Mille Miglia coupé was given to Pininfarina, and rebodied four times into four different show cars:[54]

  • 1956: Alfa Romeo Superflow. Shown at the 1956 Turin Motor Show, coupé body with plexiglas front wings and tail fins.
  • 1956: Alfa Romeo Superflow II. Shown at the 1956 Paris Motor Show, coupé body with steel wings and tail fins.
  • 1959: Alfa Romeo Spider Super Sport. Shown at the 1959 Geneva Motor Show, roadster body without tail fins.
  • 1960: Alfa Romeo Superflow IV. Shown at the 1960 Geneva Motor Show, coupé body without tail fins. The car survives today in this last configuration.

6C 3000 PR

One of the two 6C 3000 CM spiders was modified to cope with the new rules of the International Sport Category, enacted in the 1954 season, which limited engine capacity to 3-litres.[49] The 3000 CM's 3.5-litre straight-six was de-stroked to 2,943 cc.[49] This car was renamed 6C 3000 PR, for Passo Ridotto or Reduced Wheelbase, as the wheelbase was shortened by 50 cm (19.7 in).[49][53] The 6C 3000 PR was entered at the 2nd Gran Premio Supercortemaggiore held at Monza in 1954, driven by Sanesi; the vehicle was written off in a crash, in which Sanesi was also injured.[49]

Notes

  1. ^ He had already led an Alfa Romeo 8C 2300B Mille Miglia in 1937

References

  1. ^ a b c Fusi (1978), p. 115.
  2. ^ Fusi (1978), p. 127, 131.
  3. ^ Fusi 1978, p. 113.
  4. ^ www.autoevolution Alfa Romeo introduced the 6C 1500 model in 1926, with full production beginning a year later. - Retrieved 02/01/2015
  5. ^ Fusi (1978), p. 127.
  6. ^ a b Fusi (1978), p. 131.
  7. ^ Fusi (1978), p. 137.
  8. ^ a b c Fusi (1978), p. 851.
  9. ^ "Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport Testa Fissa". louwmanmuseum.nl. Retrieved 2012-01-16.
  10. ^ a b Fusi (1978), p. 141.
  11. ^ a b c Fusi (1978), p. 147.
  12. ^ a b Fusi (1978), p. 169.
  13. ^ Fusi (1978), p. 151, 235.
  14. ^ a b Simeone, Frederick. "1929 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 SS". Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum. Retrieved 10 March 2015.
  15. ^ "Classic Alfa Romeo 6C review". telegraph.co.uk. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  16. ^ a b c Fusi (1978), p. 151.
  17. ^ a b Fusi (1978), p. 163.
  18. ^ Fusi (1978), p. 235.
  19. ^ a b "1933 Alfa Romeo 6C 1900 Gran Turismo". carfolio.com. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  20. ^ a b c d e f g h Fusi (1978), p. 229.
  21. ^ a b c Fusi (1978), p. 227–229.
  22. ^ Fusi (1978), p. 227–228.
  23. ^ "6C 2003 B Gran Turismo". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  24. ^ "6C 2300 Pescara". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  25. ^ Fusi 1978, p. 251.
  26. ^ "6C 2003 B Pescara". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  27. ^ Fusi 1978, p. 277.
  28. ^ "1935 Alfa Romeo 6C 2300 Sport Spyder". kidston.com. Retrieved 2012-01-21.
  29. ^ Marchianò, Michele (October 2005). "Alfa Romeo-Jankovits "6 C 2300" 1938 - L'impresa di Fiume". Ruoteclassiche. 202 (Ottobre 2015): 56–61. Retrieved 4 September 2015.
  30. ^ a b c "Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Bertone Coupe". ultimatecarpage.com. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  31. ^ "256". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  32. ^ "1946 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 'Freccia d'Oro'". imcdb.org. Retrieved 6 December 2014.
  33. ^ "100 years of automobile revue". italiaspeed.com. Retrieved 2007-06-07.
  34. ^ "Coloniale". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  35. ^ "Sport". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  36. ^ "Super Sport". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  37. ^ "1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Corsa". supercars.net/cars/. Retrieved 2008-08-30.
  38. ^ "Model Story". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2013-10-09.
  39. ^ "Sport "Freccia d'oro"". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  40. ^ "Gran Turismo". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  41. ^ "Competizione". 6c2500.org. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  42. ^ "Specifications: Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Sport Freccia D'oro". uniquecarsandparts.com.au. Retrieved 2012-01-20.
  43. ^ "1949 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Villa d'Este". supercars.net. Retrieved 2007-06-07.
  44. ^ "Alfa Romeo "6C 2500 Coloniale"". esercito.difesa.it (in Italian). Retrieved 2012-01-16.
  45. ^ a b Fusi 1978, pp. 397–400.
  46. ^ a b c d e f Fusi 1978, pp. 435–436.
  47. ^ a b c d e Fusi 1978, pp. 437–438.
  48. ^ a b c d e f g Fusi 1978, pp. 487–494.
  49. ^ a b c d e Fusi 1978, pp. 495–496.
  50. ^ Fusi 1978.
  51. ^ "Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM Colli Coupe". ultimatecarpage.com. Retrieved 2009-06-25.
  52. ^ "Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM Colli Spider". ultimatecarpage.com/car. Retrieved 2009-06-25.
  53. ^ a b "Alfa Romeo Museum cars take centre stage at Goodwood". italiaspeed.com. 2009. Retrieved 2009-07-08.
  54. ^ "Pininfarina Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM Super Flow". coachbuild.com. Retrieved 2010-05-28.

Bibliography

  • Borgeson, Griffith (1990). The Alfa Romeo Tradition. City: Haynes (Foulis) Publishing Group Ltd. Somerset, UK. ISBN 0-85429-875-4.
  • Fusi, Luigi (1978). Alfa Romeo—Tutte le vetture dal 1910—All cars from 1910 (3rd ed.). Milan: Emmeti Grafica editrice.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: ref duplicates default (link)
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