2017 ALFA ROMEO 4C

Dave, what were the main reasons you bought this car? 
To stop myself buying a Ferrari, basically. And because the Alfa attraction started in the late-80s (when I bought a Sprint QV). I had gone to view a Ferrari 348 but the dealership was closed so I ended up driving the 4C instead. I always thought they were too expensive for what they were but I was very impressed with the performance, lightness and responsiveness. 

When did you buy it? 
April 2018. 

How often do you use it? 
Usually on a Saturday morning. I like to get out before everyone else and make some noise before ending up at a café. 

Your longest trip in this car to date? 
Auckland to Tauranga. A Taupo track day is on the cards. 

Have you made further improvements to it? 
Only some subtle carbon wrapping. 

How do you drive it? 
In Dynamic mode, using the paddles. 

Does this model have an Achilles heel? 
Practicality. For me it’s the width of the sills. I thought you could use it every day but not a chance. And if you go into an angled car park, you risk not getting out. 

Do you own any other special-interest vehicles? 
1970 Porsche 911T and a 1982 911 SC. 

Do you have long-term intentions with your Alfa? 
No, because I still have a hankering for a classic Ferrari. There’s also the temptation to chop my three cars in for a single modern supercar, like a 458, but while I love the engineering, the image would be a bit of a hurdle. 

What was the first car you drove, and where did you drive it? 
A Fiat 500 with hand controls at a Mt Maunganui camp ground. 

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