4,691cc DOHC V8 Engine
Fuel Injection
444bhp at 7,000rpm
6-Speed Semi-Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Carbon Ceramic Brakes

*From the collection of James Glickenhaus
*One owner from new
*Spectacular double red specification
*Complete with fitted luggage

THE ALFA ROMEO 8C COMPETIZIONE

First seen in 'concept car' form at the Frankfurt Auto Show in 2003, the Alfa Romeo 8C revived a famous name from the Italian company's illustrious past when it entered production in 2006. The original 8C (eight-cylinder) Alfa engine had been designed in 1931 by the legendary Vittorio Jano and was used to power Alfa Romeo's most prestigious road models, as well as its sports-racing and Grand Prix cars, until the decade's end. Styled by Wolfgang Egger, the modern-day 8C was received with universal acclaim, its gorgeous looks recalling those of Carrozzeria Touring's aerodynamic Alfa sports-racers of the late 1930s, while from the side there was more than a hint of Zagato's original Giulia TZ.

Within a couple of weeks, orders had been received for well over 1,000 cars, despite a UK price tag of £111,000. Alfa though, stuck by the decision to build only 500 examples of the 8C coupé but later changed its collective mind and made a further 500 roadsters. In 2010 the 8C Competizione was chosen to feature on the Goodwood Festival of Speed's main 'sculpture' display alongside an Alfa Romeo P2 Grand Prix car.

The genesis of the 8C Competizione graphically illustrates the close links between Italy's premier marques: Alfa Romeo, Ferrari and Maserati, all of whom are owned by FIAT. Designed at Alfa Centro Stile in Arese, the 8C used a development of the Maserati Quattroporte double-wishbone suspension (albeit on a shorter-wheelbase chassis) and is powered by a Ferrari-built V8 engine, with final assembly taking place at the Maserati factory in Modena. An enlarged version of that found in the Maserati Quattroporte and GranTurismo, the 4.7-litre V8 produces 450bhp at 7,000rpm and drives via a six-speed, semi-automatic, paddle shift gearbox, which is located immediately ahead of the rear axle in the interests of mass centralization. The Pirelli P Zero tires were specially developed for the 20" alloy wheels. As is the norm with 21st Century supercars, the 8C Competizione also features switchable performance modes.

The main chassis and its engine/gearbox/suspension sub-frames are steel, with carbon fiber used for the passenger cell and external body panels. Carbon fiber and aluminum both feature in the stylish interior, which is equipped with lightweight, leather-trimmed seats by Poltrona Frau of Turin. Alfa Red or black were the standard exterior colors and there were also various options, some at extra cost.

No one buys an Alfa Romeo, and certainly not one as special as the 8C Competizione, without being interested in its performance potential. Alfa claimed a 0-100km/h (0-62mph) time of 4.2 seconds and a top speed of around 290km/h (181mph) despite the fact that an 8C had reached 186mph during testing. It is hard to imagine that any of the fortunate 500 customers was at all dissatisfied.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This 8C has had the distinction of remaining under the single ownership of a Mr. James Glickenhaus. A name immediately recognizable among those in the automotive world, Mr. Glickenhaus is likely most famous for his Pininfarina bodied Ferrari Enzo, dubbed the P4/5. While his car was on display at the Paris Salon, Alfa Romeo was also showing their latest creation, and so it happened that he ordered one for himself in matching paint specification to his Ferrari. Like the other vehicles within his collection, the car was driven extensively and currently shows over 40,000 miles on the odometer.

More recently, Glickenhaus' attention has shifted towards the ultimate automotive endeavor: the establishment of his own marque, Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus. With several upcoming models on the way, one in production, and sights set firmly on a Le Mans 24 Hour victory, little time can be devoted to his 8C, and so it has come time to part ways.

Being in such good hands for so long, the vehicle is up to date on its maintenance with the most recent work including a new set of tires and comes complete with fitted luggage and owner's books. Unquestionably a modern collectible, the 8C's seductive lines and Ferrari derived powerplant make for one of the most complete sports cars of the past 2 decades. Offered from the best of homes, this Alfa is sure to be cherished for years to come.