2019 Alfa Romeo 4C

Overview

This Spider is a sexy, mid-engined Italian exotic carved down to affordable scale, and its cloth targa top lets the driver and one lucky passenger feel the wind in their hair. Its tiny, low-slung body is wrapped around a sport-tuned chassis that makes it feel like every commute is a track day. It's not perfect—in fact, it's far from it—but given the opportunity, it will charm you into forgiving it for all of its flaws.

Engines, Ride, and Handling

Powered by a 237-hp turbo four and weighing around 2500 pounds, its zippy power-to-weight ratio matches its zippy steering ratio; sadly, only a six-speed automatic is available. The 4C practically anticipates road challenges, and its suspension is perfectly tuned for carving up a twisty back road or attacking apexes on a track. The trade-off for its natural athleticism is a truly punishing ride over all but the smoothest road surfaces. It's quick, too: At our test track, the 4C Spider sprinted to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds.

Interior and Technology

The 4C's cabin is a throwback to simpler times before distractions such as infotainment screens and Bluetooth audio players were commonplace. You won't find many driver-assistance features, either—rear parking sensors and a backup camera are the only ones on the list—and there's almost zero cargo space. It's all quite romantic in a vintage roadster sort of way. The basic stereo system is just that: basic. But it's no matter, because you likely won't be able to hear it anyway; the 4C is loud inside all the time. Alfa even offers an optional sport exhaust system that deletes the muffler to make it louder. Once settled into the driver's seat, the intimate cabin seems to wrap around you with all controls within easy reach. The Porsche 718 Boxster is a far more civilized option, but what the Alfa lacks in sophistication it makes up for with uniqueness and flair.