1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B

8C 2900 B image

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The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B of 1938 was a technological masterpiece of its time, combining the best in engineering and design to deliver an awe-inspiring driving experience. Its 2.9-liter straight-eight engine was a marvel of power, delivering a astounding 220 horsepower, which gave the car a top speed of 100 miles per hour.

The engine featured a number of advanced features for its era, including an alloy cylinder block, hemispherical combustion chambers, and dual overhead camshafts per cylinder bank. These all contributed to the engine's high power output, which was enhanced further by the use of a twin-choke Weber carburetor and a Roots-type supercharger.

The 8C 2900 B's chassis was similarly impressive, featuring a tubular frame that was both lightweight and rigid, providing exceptional handling and performance capabilities. The chassis was further enhanced with sophisticated suspension systems, including a leaf spring front suspension and rear quarter-elliptic leaf springs with additional hydraulic dampers. Hydraulic drum brakes, with cables and hydraulic boosters, provided reliable and consistent stopping power.

The body of the 8C 2900 B was designed with aerodynamics in mind, featuring a sleek and flowing body with a long hood and prominent front grille. The car was available in several body styles, including both roadster and coupe variants.

Inside, the 8C 2900 B was equally impressive, with a well-appointed and elegant cabin that included leather seats, wood dashboard, and a full complement of instruments and controls. The car was also equipped with various advanced features, such as a four-speed manual transmission, hydraulic power steering, and electric windows.

Overall, the Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B of 1938 was a technical and design marvel, a true masterpiece of its era. Its combination of powerful engineering, advanced design, and refined luxury set a new standard for automotive excellence, and the car remains a sought-after collector's item to this day.

Milestones

- Introduction of the Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B in 1938 - Engine with 2.9 liter capacity producing 180 horsepower - Four-speed manual transmission with overdrive - Top speed of 105 mph - Bodywork designed by Carrozzeria Touring - Lightweight, aerodynamic body made of aluminum and steel - Limited production run of only 33 units - Dominant performance in racing, winning the Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans - Considered one of the greatest pre-war sports cars of all time - Highly sought-after by collectors, with prices reaching into the tens of millions of dollars at auction.


Technical

- Engine type: Inline 8-cylinder - Displacement: 2.9 liters - Power output: 180 horsepower at 5,300 rpm - Suspension: Independent front suspension with transverse leaf spring, live rear axle with leaf springs - Transmission: 4-speed manual - Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes at all four wheels - Wheelbase: 2,950 mm - Top speed: 115 mph - Production numbers: Only 33 units were produced between 1935 and 1939 - Weight: 1,200 kg - Body style: Two-seat roadster, coupe, or cabriolet - Design: Pininfarina designed the body and Carrozzeria Touring built the coachwork for most of the units - Racing success: The 8C 2900 B won the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1938 and 1939.

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