Alfa Romeo 8C-R Tazio Penned By Former Genesis, VW Designer Is Jaw-Dropping

Alfa Romeo has produced some of the most beautiful cars ever conceived over the decades and the idea of a modern hypercar from the Italian marque is a long-held dream of many.

Industrial designer Arseny Kostromin has turned that dream into a reality with his wild 8C-R Tazio, a performance-focused street-legal supercar from Alfa Romeo that could also compete in the FIA’s Hypercar class.

But before getting into details about the car, let us introduce you to the person behind the design. Kostromin is an industrial designer having worked at Volkswagen, Renault, Genesis, and who also more recently, was part of the creative team responsible for the exterior design of the hugely well-received Koenigsegg Gemera, headed by long-time friend and colleague Sasha Selipanov (remember his Ferrari 612 GTO III concept?).

We talked to Kostromin, who told us that he had been doodling around with a hyper Alfa Romeo for a while, but he never had enough free time to finish it until now. We can say, it was well worth the time.

Kostromin took some design inspiration from the classic Alfa Romeo Disco Volante, a series of experimental racing cars built in 1953 and 1953 by the carmaker. The finished design is jaw-dropping.

The designer decided to make the hypercar mid-engined and employ a ‘feet-up’ driving position similar to what you’ll find in a Formula 1 car. This has allowed for the cabin to be small and narrow. Found directly behind the cabin would be a naturally-aspirated V12 engine connected to the car’s monocoque and forming a structural part of the chassis.

Viewed from the front, it’s impossible not to be struck by the open design of the front bumper that encompasses a series of venturi tunnels running out behind the front wheels, similar to the Aston Martin Valkyrie. The aerodynamic focus continues at the rear with a large diffuser and an intriguing split rear wing design with the center section doubling as an air brake. There is also a shark fin suspended above the decklid, a roof scoop to feed the engine with air, and a single Akrapovic exhaust, inspired by those used in Formula 1.

As for the name of the concept, Alfa Romeo 8C-R Tazio, it pays tribute to Italian racing driver Tazio Nuvolari who successfully raced both motorcycles and cars, even claiming out-right victory at the 1933 Le Mans 24 Hours with the Soc. Anon. Alfa Romeo team.

Many thanks to Arseny for letting us share his work! Be sure to check out his Instagram and website.