- A new package from Officine Fioravanti wants to bring the 8C’s driving experience on par with its looks.
- The highlight is a new six-speed gated manual transmission, combined with a power boost for the V8 engine.
- Chassis upgrades include an electronically-controlled and adjustable Ohlins suspension, plus a new set of carbon-ceramic brakes.
The Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione is widely considered as one of the most beautiful cars of our times, but the lack of a manual transmission didn’t allow it to unlock its full potential as a driver’s car. Thankfully, Swiss company Officine Fioravanti announced a new conversion package for the gorgeous Italian sportscar, adding the much-needed third pedal alongside several interior, performance, and chassis upgrades.
The goal of the “Evoluzioni Tecniche” program was to bring the 8C’s driving experience on par with its looks. The first step was the removal of the original six-speed sequential robotized transmission with its paddle shifters, making room for a new six-speed manual. The new transmission has a gated shifter with an aluminum structure exposing some of the internals. It is combined with a new set of aluminum pedals, making this the first 8C Competizione with a clutch.
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Officine Fioravanti tweaked the electronics of the Ferrari-sourced 4.7-liter V8 engine, with new calibration software resulting in more power. The company didn’t get into specifics, but the stock V8 is good for 444 hp (331 kW / 450 PS) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque, sending power to the rear axle. The power boost is combined with a “significant reduction in vehicle weight”, possibly due to the lighter manual.
The conversion doesn’t stop there, as the 8C Competizione benefits from an electronically-controlled and adjustable Ohlins suspension, alongside a new set of carbon-ceramic brakes. The “modernized” chassis setup will likely make a big difference in the driving dynamics of the model, allowing owners to have more fun behind the wheel.
Photo Credit: Pietro Martelletti
Finally, there is a new pair of FIA-approved carbon fiber monocoque seats for the interior. These were developed in collaboration with Italian engineering firm Laboratori Meccanica Torino (LMT) to improve the driving position and comfort compared to the original Alfa Romeo seats. On the exterior, the only change appears to be a red “m” next to the 8C Competizione lettering on the tailgate.
Officine Fioravanti didn’t disclose the cost of the conversion but we suspect it will be quite expensive. After all, being an owner of such a sought-after model probably means you have deep pockets. Alfa Romeo produced a total of 500 examples of the 8C Competizione Coupe and another 329 units of the Spider between 2007 and 2010.
Besides improving the 8C, Officine Fioravanti is also offering upgrades for the classic Ferrari 512BB to improve the reliability of its 12-cylinder boxer powertrain. The Swiss company made headlines back in 2021 with its restomod project based on the Ferrari Testarossa.
