Featured #cartefact - ItalDesign Alfa Romeo Scighera Concept brochure
#Alfa Romeo #Featured #ItalDesign
The Scighera, a car designed in 1997 by Italdesign, featured a load-bearing chassis made of aluminum and carbon structures, while the body was constructed entirely from aluminum. Measuring 4320 mm in length, 1980 mm in width, and 1145 mm in height, the Scighera aimed to be a limited series production vehicle rather than a mere styling exercise.
The design of the Scighera departed from the traditional single-box shape commonly found in mid-engined cars at the time. Its distinctive features included large mudguards, slim front headlamps, and vertically-oriented tail lights. Although initially closed, the Scighera had the ability to transform into a spider version. Under its hood, a 3000 cc Alfa Romeo V6 cylinder bi-turbo engine delivered 400 b.h.p. The sequential gearbox with six speeds was centrally positioned in front of the engine to ensure optimal weight distribution between the axles. Additionally, the front suspension, based on the "push road" principle with a single shock absorber, was a unique mechanical feature.
The interior of the Scighera was designed for both comfort and road use, featuring Connolly upholstery and leather accessories. The two-seater passenger compartment provided ample space, with fixed seats and an adjustable steering column and pedal unit for improved accessibility. The racing version of the Scighera retained a similar style but utilized a carbon body to reduce weight.
Notably, the Scighera paid homage to Alfa Romeo's racing heritage. The bonnet incorporated a grille shield and an extreme shape with a spoiler reminiscent of Formula 1 cars. The windshield design was inspired by classic cars from the 1950s and 1960s, with side extensions that did not impede access to the vehicle. The gull wing mechanism allowed for lifting and removal of the window, enabling the Scighera to be converted into an open-top car. The bonnet, comprising a large wing, opened in two movements, providing access to the engine and allowing refueling.
At the 1997 Geneva International Motor Show, Italdesign introduced the Scighera GT, which featured significant differences compared to the road version. The front-end was a single carbon fiber piece incorporating the grille, wings, and bonnet, which could be fully detached. The doors opened conventionally, but the windows were fixed. The side profile showcased prominent air intakes near the central engine, while the rear boasted a carbon fiber construction and a centrally positioned monoplane spoiler.
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