Alfa gets the Ducati treatment

The Alfa Romeo 147 has undergone a Ducati Corse treatment, boasting a more aggressive look combined with a number of enhancing technical equipment. Alfa Romeo premiered the limited special series 147 Ducati Corse in Bologna, last December.

This is a special series developed from the successful partnership between two great Italian names who have written memorable pages of the history of international racing. Only a limited number of the special series will be produced.

The Alfa 147 Ducati Corse has a new 1.9 JTDM engine (170 bhp) which goes from from 0-100 kph in just eight seconds, reaching a top speed of 215 Kph.

The powerful 1.9 JTDM 170 bhp engine is paired with the "Q2" system (self-locking front differential) which significantly improves road hold, traction and stability while reducing understeer during acceleration and intervention of electronic control systems.

Specifically, the Torsen "Q2" system is responsible for the continuous dynamic distribution of torque between the front drive wheels, depending on driving conditions and road surface. The self-locking differential combined with the quadrilateral front suspension allows the Alfa 147 to achieve handling performance and road hold that are among the best in its class.

The exterior of the Alfa 147 Ducati Corse has a lowered suspension and a distinctively tough look that combines the stylistic features of Alfa Romeo and Ducati Corse. The body shell comes in three colours: Giulietta red, micalised black and ice white. The embossed "Ducati Corse" logo and chrome frame is placed below the indicators and on the rear hatch.

The well-designed customisation is another distinctive feature of the new Alfa 147 Ducati Corse, such as the chromed exhaust, red brake calipers (optional) and satin-finished grille. Distinctive features on this version are the 18-inch alloys with specific finish and red edging.

Other signs of the sporting connection can be found inside the car, such as the dark roof, black front dash and pillars, the specially designed seats upholstered in black fabric with red stitching and the Ducati Corse logo on the front head rests.

The steering wheel, gear lever sleeve and hand brake cover also feature the red/black colour contrast. Inside the car, there is also an aluminium pedal board, aluminium-effect gear lever knob, kick panel with the Ducati Corse logo, instrument panel with red background and the Ducati Corse logo that emphasises the car's sporty character.

It is fitted with a wide range of extras as standard: the dual-zone automatic climate control system, stereo system with CD and mp3 player and controls on the steering wheel, Bose system with amplifier and subwoofer, rear spoiler and VDC system.

The Alfa 147 Ducati Corse, the essence of the best in Italian car manufacturing, will be in Malta in the next few days.