If you want a compact sports car but would also like something other than the default choices in the segment, such as the Porsche 718 Cayman and Audi TT RS, the Alpine A110 might just be the one for you.
The French sports coupe doesn’t utilize an insanely-powerful engine like some of its rivals and instead aims to provide precise driving characteristics with its low overall weight.
CarWow recently had the opportunity to test out the exciting little A110, and while we won’t tell you what they think of it, we will let you know of a few important facts. For starters, the A110 is powered by a turbocharged 1.8-liter petrol four delivering 248 hp and 236 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque. That may not sound like much, but the engine only needs to haul 2380 lbs (1080 kg), allowing the compact coupe to reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in a sprightly 4.5 seconds.
The A110 is available in two versions. The first, dubbed A110 Pure, comes outfitted with 17-inch lightweight wheels, matte carbon fiber interior trim, Sabelt bucket seats, and microfiber upholstery. By comparison, the A110 Légende is slightly more luxurious and offers six-way adjustable seats in black or brown leather and a lightweight premium audio system.
Cars like the TT RS and 718 Cayman aren’t easy to compete with, so targeting them was always going to be an audacious move for Alpine. Based on recent reviews, however, the company has nailed it. In fact, the new Alpine A110 was named Top Gear’s 2018 Performance Car of the Year earlier this month, beating out vehicles like the Bugatti Chiron, Ferrari 488 Pista, McLaren 600LT, and Porsche 911 GT2 RS.
That’s some truly serious competition. Wonder what makes the reborn Alpine so good to drive? Just scroll, hit the play button and find out.