04.12.2003 LONDON TUNING HOUSE AUTODELTA TO UNVEIL 328BHP 3.7-LITRE ALFA ROMEO 147GTA AT EARLS COURT |
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Renown London based design and tuning house Autodelta is set to unveil its latest and most powerful creation, the 328bhp Autodelta Alfa Romeo 147 GTA 3.7 V6, at the MPH03 Motor Show which runs from 11-14 December at Earl’s Court, London.
Based on the quickest hot-hatch developed by Alfa Romeo to date, the Autodelta Alfa 147 GTA is the result of extensive mechanical modifications to the current standard model, in order to enhance further its sporty character.
Autodelta’s Alfa 147 GTA is powered by a bored out version of the existing 3.2 V6 unit, with engine capacity now up to 3750cc, which delivers 328bhp at 7300rpm and is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 175mph. New steel billet camshafts, a Ferrari-derived larger throttle and suitable re-mapping of the engine all quicken driving response and help achieve performance levels not found in any other current sports hatchback.
A bespoke stainless exhaust system, with new manifolds at the front and quadruple tailpipes at the rear give the new engine a wide breathing range: 260lb ft of torque at 4700rpm are at the driver’s disposal, and the rev redline stops just short of 8000rpm.
A limited slip differential offering 30% progressive lock has been incorporated into the package, a new feature over the standard Alfa Romeo 147 GTA, to help transform the extra power into tarmac-gripping performance via a new, stronger clutch, and custom-built 7.5 x 18” light alloy wheels wearing 225/40 tyres.
Autodelta has also upgraded the suspension set-up, with uprated bushes, height-adjustable dampers with new coil springs and revised geometry settings for maximum body control. Stronger, heat-treated brake discs with special compound pads have been added to cope with the extra power, significantly increasing the cars braking capabilities.
Autodelta’s own styling and manufacturing arm Creativestudio, has given the Autodelta Alfa Romeo 147 GTA a new, distinctive and more agressive look by adding a specially designed lightweight bonnet complete with air vents. The rear bumper, now housing a quad tailpipe exhaust, has undergone substantial changes. The overall impression is one of strength and overtly sportiness, reflecting the nature of the car’s enhanced performance and power, whilst every effort has also been made to respect and maintain the Alfa Romeo image and character intact.
The Autodelta 147 GTA is strictly customer-built, and each vehicle will have its own plaque carrying the serial number. ‘We have already received more than 20 orders from both the UK and abroad, ahead of the car’s official launch’ says project boss Jano Djelalian, ‘And we felt that the MPH03 Motor Show was the most suitable venue to showcase a car of such powerful performance and enhanced sporting appeal.
The Autodelta Alfa Romeo 147 GTA will be unveiled at the MPH03 Motor Show in the Gallery 0-60 on stand GL32 a week on Thursday. |
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