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Alfa Romeo confirmed for 2008 US arrival

alfa 8C Competizione supercarIt’s finally official. Alfa Romeo will return to US shores next year with the debut of the 8C Competizione supercar. Maserati North America boss Jim Selwa made the announcement at the unveiling of the final production version of the US-spec 8C at the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance over the weekend. According to Selwa, the 8C will be priced upwards of $200,000 and only about 100 cars are earmarked for the US.

Production of the new 8C will top 500 units for the coupe and another 500 for the convertible Spider, making it one of the most exclusive Alfas in history. Alfa Romeo cars haven’t been sold in the US since 1995. Back then they were known for their unreliability and shoddy workmanship.

A lot has changed over the past decade. Today Alfa produces some of the most stylish cars on the market and has quickly caught up with some of its European rivals, although there is still some way to go.

The new 8C flagship features a carbon fiber body, a 450hp 4.7L V8 and a six-speed paddle-shifter transmission. Following the 8C, Alfa is expected to launch its 159 Sedan and Brera Coupe.