The 1750 TBi engine has only just arrived in Australia, powering the Alfa Romeo Giulietta QV. Yet the new engine -- 21st Century-kind to the environment but powerful as well -- is now on offer in the Spider convertible also.
Ateco Automotive, the local distributor for Alfa Romeo, has announced today that the final edition of the Spider will be powered by the new engine, along with the continuing option of the 3.2-litre V6.
The importer is clearing its stocks of the Spider with the new model range, which will sell for the same price ($69,990) in the case of the four-cylinder variant, despite the additional equipment provided as standard: Frau Pieno Fiore leather, electric seats and new 19-inch alloy wheels. At $84,990, the V6 Spider 3.2 JTS Q4 represents an $11,000 saving.
Peak power for the Spider 1750 TBi is 147kW and torque maxes out at 320Nm from as low as 1400rpm. With that sort of performance potential, the turbocharged Spider reaches 100km/h in 7.2 seconds from launch. Driven with one eye on economy, the car will return a combined-cycle fuel consumption figure of 8.2L/100km.
The Euro 5-compliant engine drives through a six-speed transmission to the front wheels, which are braked by 330mm ventilated discs. Solid discs at the rear measure 292mm in diameter. Steering is by means of a power-assisted rack-and-pinion system (2.33 turns, lock to lock, and a 10.7m turning circle).
Safety features run to seven airbags, a fire prevention system, ABS/EBD, stability control and traction control. For comfort and convenience, the Spider 1750 TBi comes equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, electrically adjustable/heated front seats, chrome roll bars, wind break, rear storage compartments, automatic dual-zone climate control, electric folding roof, cruise control, a multi-function display and trip computer, fog lights, 19-inch spoked alloy wheels and a six-speaker CD audio system.
The Spider 3.2 JTS V6 adds xenon headlights, headlight washers and a Bose audio system. Both cars are on sale now.
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