Alpine A110 1600S '72

aspiration

NA (Naturally Aspirated)

Group

Gr.N

Displacement

1,565 cc

DriveTrain

RR

Height

1,130 mm

Length

3,850 mm

Weight

715 kg

Width

1,520 mm

Max Power

138 BHP / 6,500 rpm

Max Torque

15.8 kgfm / 5,000 rpm

Performance Point

PP 420.38

Manufacturer

Alpine

Alpine A110 1600S '72: Legendary French Rally Car and Its Racing Legacy

The Alpine A110 1600S '72 stands as one of the most significant icons in French automotive history, celebrated for its nimble handling and exceptional performance both on the road and rally stage. Introduced by Société des Automobiles Alpine in the early 1970s, the A110 1600S was the ultimate evolution of Jean Rédélé’s lightweight, rear-engined sports car vision. Its curvaceous fiberglass body and distinctive profile helped make it not only visually stunning but also incredibly light, providing a perfect platform for spirited driving.

Powered by a 1.6-liter inline-4 engine producing up to 138 horsepower, the 1600S might seem modest by modern standards, but its lightweight construction (weighing less than 700 kg) meant it could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just over seven seconds—a remarkable feat for its time. The car's finely balanced chassis and responsive steering earned it the reputation as a precise driver's car, adored by enthusiasts throughout Europe.

The Alpine A110 1600S '72 achieved legendary success on the international rally stage. Its most iconic triumph came in 1973, when Alpine became the first manufacturer to win the World Rally Championship (WRC) manufacturers’ title, thanks in large part to the A110’s dominance on both tarmac and gravel. The car’s agility in demanding rally conditions, from the Monte Carlo Rally's treacherous mountain passes to rugged stages throughout Europe, made it a true rally legend. This success not only cemented Alpine's reputation in motorsports but also elevated the A110 1600S to a coveted status among collectors and classic car aficionados.

Today, the Alpine A110 1600S '72 remains a symbol of French automotive innovation and sporting spirit, celebrated for its racing achievements and timeless design. Its legacy endures in the modern Alpine A110, which draws inspiration from its 1970s predecessor, connecting a new generation of drivers to the thrilling heritage of the Alpine marque.