Thanks to almost unexpected success, Alpine continues to expand the range of its A110 berlinetta! After the classic model, the GT (300 hp, regular chassis) and the S (300 hp, sports chassis), here comes the A110 R. A more radical (hence the name) dieppoise aimed usage track, but not only. In the program: weight loss treatment, high carbon and recycled air.

Alpine A110 R: impossible to confuse!

Visually, you will not be able to ignore it Alpine A110R. In addition to a specific matte blue shade taken from the brand’s involvement in F1, multiple appendages allow you to immediately distinguish this A110 R from the A110 S. Carbon is now almost everywhere. Starting with hood front, to save 2.9 kg separately. The back glass is simply removed for replacement coal part. Convenient for the engine to breathe and save weight, but a little less in maneuvers, we imagine… And you’ll have to be careful with the maneuvers precisely so as not to damage carbon discs. Rare at this level of the market, they save 12.5kg and optimize airflow thanks to a wind tunnel-researched design.

No power, but…

The new rear wing improves downforce in combination with redesigned front and rear bumpers and new side sills. The result: the A110 R gains 29 kg of downforce at the rear compared to the A110 S, while losing drag. Win-win!

It is this single increase in drag that allows the A110 R progress at full speed : +10 km/h compared to the A110 S Pack Aero to reach 285 km/h. Indeed, nothing new on the engine or gearbox side, with a power is maintained at the level of 300 hp at 340 Nm. But the R gains 34kg compared to the S: not easy when you’re already starting from a lightweight! Result: 1,082 kg in working condition. Enough to capture 3 tenths on acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, now swallowed 3.9 seconds. Hopefully this is enough to make fans forget about the lack of progress on the engine side, who were probably expecting a bit more.

The interior of the A110 R is designed for a track day

Inside, the A110 R continues its track theme. The set is decorated with a Upholstery made of microfiber in the style of Alcantara, while the conventional seats have been replaced by buckets made from a large piece of carbon, for a total gain of 5 kg. You will be perfectly tied in harnesses racing, while the door handles are replaced with straps, Porsche GT3 RS style.

On the chassis side, Alpine logically announces a track-type setup. Therefore, we find ground clearance reduced by 10 mm, or even 10 mm more thanks to fully adjustable shock absorbers. The front and rear suspensions are stiffer by 10%. Braking is also slightly revised, with a redesigned cooling system, with a increasing endurance announced at the level of 20%. Finally, the Alpine A110 R comes standard Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 half tires.

Crazy price?

In short, if the net performance gain is ultimately quite limited, it is due to its behavior on track that the Alpine A110 R should make a difference. Thanks to its clear chassis, optimized aerodynamics and even lower weight, it should surprise many. Apparently, Alpine has yet to announce pricing for its final A110. Since the A110 S is available from €72,500, we can imagine, on the other hand, that the entry ticket should more than 80,000 euros, or even 90,000 euros…

See you in the coming weeks to get to the bottom of it! All this until the arrival in a few years of 100% electric replacement.