Renault Watching Alfa Romeo 4C to Gauge Alpine Success

RenaultRenaultFrance, 1898 > present189 models
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says that is keeping an eye on whether the Alfa Romeo 4CAlfa Romeo 4CItaly, 2013 > present1055 photos
is a success to gauge possible sales for its upcoming AlpineAlpineFrance, 1955 > 199414 models
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in 2016. If they are successes, then Renault predicts that it could be the rebirth of the affordable European sports cars. 

According to Renault Chief Operating Officer Carlos Tavares, the styling for the Alpine is about 70% done, and the car features four round headlights, a pointed nose, low roof and side scoops similar to the Alpine A110Alpine A110France, 1964 > present2 photos
. Renault has not officially said what engine the Alpine it will use. It has hinted that it will use a tuned version of the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine from the Renaultsport ClioRenault Clio RS 200 SportFrance, 2012 > present4 photos
that will be located transversely in the rear of the car. 

"We have time to discuss and decide. The production car is about three years away, but about a year before that we will probably show a concept. In the meantime, we will find other ways to feed the brand," said Tavares.

The 4C will go on sale in Europe in late 2013 and in the US in early 2014. It uses an aluminum body and chassis and is powered by a 1750cc turbocharged four-cylinder with 240hp with a twin-clutch transmission. Alfa has yet to officially announce pricing for the car.

Renault hopes that the Alpine, CaterhamCaterhamUnited Kingdom, 1973 > present9 models
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derivative and Alfa 4C appeal to younger buyers and traditional sports car buyers because they will be fun to drive and relatively affordable. 

Source: Autocar