The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
Launched in 1951, the 1900 Sprint featured bodywork by Pinin Farina (Cabriolet) and Touring (Coupe), both models utilizing the 100bhp engine of the 1900TI sports saloon.
The Alfa Romeo 1900C Sprint Pininfarina Coupé is an extraordinary example of Italian automotive elegance and engineering precision. While Pinin Farina was primarily tasked with producing Alfa Romeo’s official cabriolet model, the coachbuilder also crafted a limited number of coupés on the 1900 Sprint chassis. According to H-J Döhren’s authoritative book Millenove, only around 100 of these beautifully streamlined coupés were constructed on the short-wheelbase 1900 Sprint chassis between 1952 and 1953, making it a rare gem in Alfa Romeo’s mid-century lineup. While the Touring Superleggera version of the 1900C Sprint employed an innovative aluminum skin over a tubular steel structure, Pininfarina’s coupé featured a conventional steel body, yet used innovative weight-saving techniques. Steel body panels as thin as 0.7 mm were meticulously crafted to reduce weight without sacrificing structural integrity. Additionally, aluminum was strategically employed for the bonnet, boot lid, and dashboard, helping the Pininfarina coupé weigh in at only 50 kilograms more than its Touring counterpart. This meticulous approach kept the car light and agile, achieving a balance that allowed for dynamic handling and engaging performance. Powered by Alfa Romeo’s reliable 1,884cc inline-four engine, the 1900C Sprint Pininfarina produced a spirited 100 horsepower. With a top speed of 180 km/h (111 mph), the car offered thrilling performance, especially given its lightweight construction and aerodynamic design. Its quick acceleration and high-speed stability made it a favorite among drivers who appreciated both beauty and performance in a single package. Today, the Alfa Romeo 1900C Sprint Pininfarina is exceptionally rare, with only 36 known surviving examples. Each of these coupés reflects Pininfarina’s innovative approach to design and craftsmanship, blending the company’s renowned aesthetic refinement with Alfa Romeo’s commitment to engineering excellence. Collectors prize this model not only for its scarcity but for its role as a beautifully preserved piece of automotive history, exemplifying the collaboration between Alfa Romeo and Pininfarina in creating timelessly elegant, high-performance cars.
The story of Pininfarina and Alfa Romeo is one of mutual admiration and a shared passion for innovation in automotive design that spans nearly eighty years. This remarkable partnership, which began in the early 1930s, reflects a continuous journey of creativity, prestige, and performance that has defined both brands.
Discover the fascinating journey of Pininfarina, a name synonymous with luxury automotive design and innovation. From its inception in 1930 to its status as a leader in the industry, this article explores the milestones, iconic vehicles, and visionary designers who shaped the brand’s legacy. Delve into the evolution of Pininfarina, highlighting notable achievements such as the Ferrari 550 Barchetta, the Cambiano concept, and the introduction of Automobili Pininfarina. Join us as we celebrate the artistry and engineering excellence that has defined Pininfarina through the decades.
