Last updated on December 14, 2021
Today’s car is a 1972 Alpine A110 1600s. The Alpine A100 was revealed at the Paris Auto Show in 1963 by Jean Redele. After his successes with the A106 and the A108 the A110 styling was a major change for the company and became one of the more successful models for more than a decade. This design was influenced by the Lotus Elan and Colin Chapman was a major source of inspiration for the Alpine designers. The A110 accomplished most of its fame in the early 1970s as a victorious rally car.
I saw this car at the French / Italian car show at Woodley Park in Van Nuys, CA on November 7th, 2021 and it is owned by Doug Joseph. It is finished in its signature Metallic blue with a Black interior. It is powered by a 98 cu in, 1.6 liter in-line 4 cylinder, rear mounted Renualt engine producing 138 hp. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. Delivering that power to the rear wheels through 3.37 to 1 gear ratio. Braking is disc brakes at all 4 wheels. The front suspension is independent, wishbone, coil springs, and anti-roll bar. The rear suspension is independent, swinging semi axle, radius arms, and coil springs The original MSRP was around $10,000.00. The total number of Alpine A110 1600s produced between 1968 – 1973 was 1,833 of which 459 were 1972’s. Its performance numbers are 134 mph top speed and 0 to 62 mph at 7 seconds. This car reached international fame during 1970 – 1972 competing in the International Rally Championships, winning several events around Europe and became considered to be one of the best rally cars of its time.
This is another of the European automobiles I knew little about and have gained an appreciation for. Cruising through the canyons or just a coastal drive and hearing the engine can excite ones adrenalin. Great car for car shows and Cars & Coffee outings to draw in the curious observers. Thanks for riding along. Frank
