Winnipeg, a Look Back at Alfa Romeo's First Car, the 24 HP

In 1910, a group of Milanese entrepreneurs established A.L.F.A. (the Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili or "Lombard Automobile Factory, Public Company"). Since then, A.L.F.A.-now Alfa Romeo-has changed the world of automobiles. Now, in celebration of the company's 110-year anniversary, let's look back together at its first product, the "24 HP" racer.

Immediately following A.L.F.A.'s formation, the fledging business knew it needed a winner out of the gate. Thus, they turned to Giuseppe Merosi, a top-tier engineer with vast racing credentials. Merosi's efforts in collaboration with A.L.F.A. would bear fruit in the form of the 24 HP, a car that would establish itself as the progenitor of the modern sports sedan.

The 24 HP dazzled at the time with a 4.1-liter engine that produced 42 horsepower and managed a maximum speed of 62 mph/100 kph. Following a modest debut-50 units were sold in the initial year-the 24 HP blew up in the public consciousness at the 1911 Targa Florio competition. While the car suffered a freak off-road accident that ended its participation, it impressively led the race most of the way prior to the incident. News spread, and A.L.F.A. was officially in the game.

Keep your eyes locked on this space for more 110th anniversary news and retrospectives! Ready to experience Alfa Romeo's excellence yourself? Book a test drive in Winnipeg today!