Alpine Reveals the A110 R Ultime: The Last of the Line?

As Alpine looks toward an electrified future with models like the A290 hot hatch and A390 Beta Concept, the brand has shown there’s still life in its acclaimed A110. Debuting at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, the A110 R Ultime represents the pinnacle of the A110 range and, with just 110 units available, could be Alpine’s final car powered by petrol alone.

Building upon the already track-focused R, the 1.8-litre turbocharged inline-four now produces 345bhp and 420Nm of torque – a 49bhp improvement over the standard A110 R. The additional power comes courtesy of a new turbo featuring a new turbine and compressor wheel, allowing the Ultime to sprint from 0 to 62mph in just 3.8 seconds. But there is more than acceleration to the A110 R Ultime – it also marks the apex of Alpine’s dedication to lightweight, driver-centric engineering.

Further enhancements include a bespoke braking system featuring 330mm AP Racing discs and high-performance brake pads. Adjustable Öhlins dampers also feature, allowing drivers to fine-tune suspension settings for both road and track.

The car’s power delivery is complemented by a new DW6 gearbox with increased torque capacity, whilst an Akrapovic titanium exhaust enhances acoustics. Aerodynamic refinements, including a new front splitter and rear spoiler, help generate 160kg of additional downforce compared to the A110 R Turini, making the Ultime even more stable at high speeds.

Alpine offers extensive customisation options through its Atelier personalisation programme, including collaborations with Sabelt and Poltrona Frau. For those seeking even more bespoke touches, the Sur-Mesure programme allows for a uniquely tailored experience, from upholstery to exterior finishes.

Priced from €265,000, the A110 R Ultime combines Alpine’s engineering expertise with the exclusivity of a limited-run collector’s piece. However, for UK buyers, it is worth bearing in mind that price includes France’s punishing tax penalty on high-performance vehicles.

The Key Rival: The Porsche Cayman GT4 RS

For those tracking performance benchmarks, the A110 R Ultime inevitably draws comparisons with the Porsche Cayman GT4 RS. Though both are track-focused sports cars, they represent distinct philosophies. The A110 R Ultime emphasises lightweight construction and turbocharging, while the Porsche relies on a naturally aspirated flat-six and motorsport engineering, which offers significantly more power and a superior soundtrack.

As Alpine embraces electrification, the A110 R Ultime may very well be its final word on petrol-powered sports cars, and if it can defeat the GT4 RS, it will become a fitting conclusion to the A110’s legacy.