ALFA ROMEO FRANKFURT SPOTLIGHT FOR STUNNING ALFA 4C CONCEPT ALFA ROMEO'S striking 4C concept was unveiled at the Geneva auto show in March, but it will be the centerpiece of the brand’s display in Frankfurt – and it’s sure to get even more admiring looks. The concept hints at an affordable rear-drive model that likely will launch at the end of next year priced at about 45,000 euros. Alfa enthusiasts have dreamed for almost two decades of the return of such a car as the 4C after the Duetto Spider was discontinued in 1994. The similarly styled 8C Competizione, which was built from 2007-2008, was too expensive for most Alfa buyers and the supercar’s production run was limited to 1,000 units. The rear-engine 4C coupe was designed at the company's styling center in Turin under the direction of Lorenzo Ramaciotti and Marco Tencone. Thanks to an innovative construction method, which combines carbon fiber and aluminum, the 4C will be very lightweight. Alfa is targeting an 850kg curb weight. Alfa says the 4C production version will be a halo car that will bring new customers into showrooms. It will be sold around the world and will help the brand’s return to the United States. IAA 2011 POCKET GUIDE 9