2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Test Drive and Review

by Jason Fogelson

After an absence of 20 years, Alfa Romeo has come roaring back to the United States with the 4C and 4C Spider. I got a chance to spend a week with the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider last month, and I nearly fell in love. Nearly.

The idea of living with a mid-engine roadster has always intrigued me. I’ve always lusted after the old Porsche 914-6, a ridiculous little Targa-style two-seater that has no practical application beyond driving like a fool. The 4C Spider reminded me a little bit of the 914-6. It was fast, insanely maneuverable, and incredibly fun to drive around. It was also a pain to get in and out of. It was noisy. It transmitted every bump in the road through its overly supportive, narrow racing seats. I had to bribe my wife to go for rides.

In the end, I wound up appreciating the 4C for its merits, and forgiving it for its weaknesses. It is an affordable supercar, and a great reintroduction of a classic brand.

You can read my full review of the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider on Forbes.com.

Photo (c) Jason Fogelson

Jason Fogelson

Jason Fogelson is a freelance automotive journalist and editor. He has covered cars, trucks, SUVs and motorcycles for a variety of print, web and broadcast media. His first book, “100 Things for Every Gearhead to Do Before They Die,” came out in 2015. Jason served two terms as President of the Motor Press Guild, and is a member of the Midwest Automotive Media Association and the Automotive Press Association. He also writes music, theater and film criticism, in addition to the occasional screenplay. Jason lives near Detroit, Michigan, with his wife, two dogs, two cats, 25 guitars, his motorcycle, and his pickup truck.

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