Archive for the ‘Alfa Romeo’ Category
Friday, March 12th, 2010
The new second-generation MiTo models are now available to buy adding extra power, performance and reducing emissions.
Featuring the innovative MultiAir engines, developed by Fiat, the new engines combine an increase in performance while lowering fuel consumption over the previous generation.
The MulitAir made its international debut in the MiTo late last year, was initially offered in two turbocharged forms for the UK market. The 135bhp version of the unit powers the £15,165 Lusso and £16,135 Veloce, while the range-topping £17,895 Cloverleaf – an auspicious return for the iconic badge close to every Alfista’s heart – boasts 170bhp and a 0-62mph time of just 7.5 seconds, but a combined fuel consumption of 47.1 mpg.
In addition to MultiAir, the new MiTo range showcases a broad spectrum of innovative technologies, including active suspension on the Cloverleaf (a first for this class of car), the emission-reducing Start&Stop system across the range, and Alfa Romeo DNA. Derived from racing, this three-mode electronic system communicates with the engine, brakes, steering, suspension (on MiTo Cloverleaf), and transmission, allowing the driver to adjust the responses of the car to suit driving style and road conditions.
Alfa’s Electronic Q2 limited slip differential heads a number of dynamic driver aids, including a long list of safety systems. Together with the MacPherson strut/torsion beam suspension layout, these all help deliver the handling dynamics and sure-footed road holding capabilities you’d expect from an Alfa, whatever the road. Designed to satisfy the highest Euro NCAP crash safety rating, the MiTo also offers optimum passive safety.
The model’s high level of engineering integrity can also be appreciated through the series of improvements that have further increased the quality of the Alfa MiTo. Improvements embrace the interior finish, trim combinations, and gearchange quality (the lever on the MiTo Cloverleaf has been shortened by 2.5 centimetres) as well as modifications to the steering, suspension and braking systems.
MultiAir performance
The MiTo’s new range of MultiAir engines are based on the Fiat Group’s established 1.4-litre ‘FIRE’ block. The MultiAir top-end is modular and designed to be fitted to existing engines. From launch, the engine has been available with three power outputs, starting with the 105bhp non-turbo unit. For the UK market, however, the choice for Alfa Romeo customers is between the two turbocharged versions.
Striking an unbeatable balance between spirited, sporty performance and fine economy, the 135bhp version of this engine that powers the MiTo Lusso and Veloce is outstandingly flexible and responsive and pulls vigorously from low engine speeds, posting a class-leading 0-62mph time of 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 129mph. This excellent performance dovetails perfectly with respect for the environment, reflected in CO2 emissions of just 129 g/km and a combined fuel consumption of 50.4 mpg.
The 170bhp MultiAir powerplant fitted exclusively to the range-topping Cloverleaf is even more exceptional, with a specific power output of 124bhp/litre which is not only a first for this class of car but also the highest value ever recorded for a production Alfa. Combined with a new fast-shifting, short-travel six-speed gearbox, the Cloverleaf’s powertrain exemplifies the philosophy of downsizing: producing hi-tech turbocharged engines to increase performance while slashing fuel consumption and emissions. The results achieved by this strategy are impressive by any standard. A CO2 figure of 139 g/km and 59mpg over the extra-urban cycle are closer to what you might expect from a small city car than a sporty hatchback capable of sprinting from 0-62 mph in 7.5 seconds and powering on to 136mph.
This MiTo Cloverleaf MultiAir’s 170bhp engine gives it a class-leading power/weight ratio of 6.7 kg/hp which is almost 10% better than the already excellent performance of the current 155 bhp 1.4 TB. Peak power of 170bhp is developed at 5,500rpm, and is supported by up to 184lb.ft of torque at 2,500rpm, delivering 47.1mpg on the combined cycle.
These statistics are particularly significant because they prove the effectiveness of downsizing to produce high-tech engines with better performance allied to sharp reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, giving the MiTo Cloverleaf an unbeatable performance/consumption ratio.
Driving dynamics
Key to the sporting handling and ride characteristics of the MiTo is its suspension layout: MacPherson struts at the front and a semi-independent layout with torsion beam at the rear. To emphasise the promptness of response, stability and control, even under extreme conditions, MiTo’s track widths are among the widest in the segment – 1483mm front and 1475mm rear. The wheel rims are also wide in relation to the size of the tyres in order to optimise the latter’s handling performance. The MiTo also has a sporting yet pliant ride, and the torsion beam features high torsional stiffness to enable it to also act as an anti-roll bar, thereby ensuring optimum roll performance and helping maximise the promptness of response.
The most distinctive feature of the MiTo’s suspension is that the front and rear dampers feature coilover springs fitted inside the damper that act in parallel with the main spring during extension travel, with the main purpose of reducing roll and increasing chassis response. Special dual-acting telescopic hydraulic dampers are fitted as standard on all versions.
Alfa Romeo MiTo car leasing deals
Alfa Romeo MiTo new and nearly new deals
Start/Stop
The MiTo’s Start&Stop technology makes its debut combined with MultiAir engines for the first time on an Alfa Romeo. The system turns off the engine whenever the vehicle is stationary and idling in neutral, then restarts it automatically when the clutch is depressed. Start&Stop can be deactivated at will by the driver but, when active, achieves notable reductions in fuel consumption, emissions and noise pollution.
To find out more about the new MiTo MultiAir range, read RoadTestReports.co.uk’s review.
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Friday, February 5th, 2010
In a visual twist on the classic Space Invaders arcade game, Alfa Romeo is to showing on a new TV advert from today (Friday February 12) to launch its new MiTo MultiAir models.
The Italian sporting marque’s latest advert has been created to promote its innovative MultiAir engine line-up, which promises increased fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions while enhancing performance.
The intergalactic ‘fix’ of retro-gaming sees an Alfa MiTo skilfully eliminating the ‘invaders’ – which in this case are fuel pumps and toxic barrels – with lasers fired from its headlights.
The MultiAir range introduces the 1.4-litre 135 bhp Alfa MiTo Lusso and Veloce as well as the 170 bhp 1.4 Alfa MiTo Cloverleaf model complete with active suspension. All versions include Start&Stop technology.
Alfa Romeo MiTo car leasing deals
Alfa Romeo MiTo road test reports
Alfa Romeo MiTo new and nearly new deals
Capable of reaching 62mph from a standing start in just 7.5 seconds, the range-topping Alfa MiTo Cloverleaf has a top speed of 136mph and a striking combined cycle official fuel economy figure of 47.1 mpg. These high-tech MultiAir engines also produce amongst the lowest CO2 levels of all Alfa MiTo petrol models.
Prices for the Alfa MiTo MultiAir models start at £15,165 through to £17,895 for the top-of-the-range Cloverleaf. To find out more about MiTo MultiAir and the full Alfa Romeo range please visit www.alfaromeo.co.uk
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Friday, December 11th, 2009
Alfa Romeo’s strange-looking Alfa 8C Spider supercar has been officially named as the Most Beautiful Car of the Year by Top Gear magazine.
Judged by a Top Gear panel consisting of TV, magazine and online teams – spanning 24 international editions – the awards recognise the most innovative and exciting cars to be launched over the past 12 months.
Described as ‘perfection’ by Top Gear, the 8C Spider’s appeal is about more than good lucks, argues the car’s maker. Thank god, because, personally, I’m struggling to see the beauty in it. But thankfully, its performance is something else; a responsive 4.7litre V8 engine produces an awesome 450BHP which is channelled through a sophisticated 6-speed F1-style paddle shift gearbox to the rear wheels, producing enough power to launch its occupants from 0-62mph in just 4.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 181mph.
UK Brand Communications Manager, Damien Dally, said: “There’s no doubt that the 8C Spider is a sensational supercar but to have the recognition of the Top Gear panel is a perfect way to end the year.”
Limited to a production run of just 500 examples, 35 Alfa 8C Spiders are destined for the UK, with most of them sold before you could say “bellissima”. Valued at around £174,000 the chance of owning an example remains ultra exclusive, however the latest models in Alfa Romeo’s line up have taken inspiration from the Alfa 8C Competizione and Spider – such as the sporty compact Alfa MiTo and 2010’s Alfa Giulietta.
Personally though I would give the award to the Lotus Evora, although it did win the ‘Sports Car of the Year’ 2009 award from Top Gear, so I guess it is not all bad.
Conor McNicholas, Editor of BBC Top Gear magazine commented “It’s pretty, quintessentially British, fast and handles like a dream. Evora takes Lotus to a new place in terms of quality but more importantly delivers a sports car rush that puts other marques to shame.”
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Thursday, October 8th, 2009
We’ve all felt uneasy at times, being approached by a stranger in a deserted car park late at night or breaking down by the side of the road and having another car pull up next to you.
These situations are few and far between, but they do happen Volvo and Alfa Romeo dealership Sturgess in Almond Road, Leicester, has come to the aid of local women drivers by launching a free ‘Women in Gear’ evening on Tuesday, November 17. Men are also welcome to attend, emphasised Sturgess. Practical instruction on personal awareness and self-protection, basic car maintenance and self-help will be top of the agenda and advice will be given on reducing the risks women face when driving for work or socially, including dealing with so-called ‘road rage’ in other drivers.
The increase in road traffic in the UK – up to 50 per cent in the last two decades – is an important factor and this is set to rise by an alarming 100 per cent in the next 20 years, predict motoring experts.
In a survey of more than 1,000 motorists carried out by the RAC Foundation, 87 per cent of drivers said that they had been a road rage victim at least once, while 20 per cent claimed to have experienced it more than ten times. Even more alarming was the admission by 71 per cent to having indulged in road rage themselves and the majority claimed that they had felt justified in either perpetrating or responding aggressively to road rage.
“Personal safety and security are imperative for everyone, particularly women today. The menace of aggressive, inconsiderate driving on our roads seems to be increasing at the moment and we believe that all it takes is a little care and consideration to avoid situations which can escalate into the kinds of tragic incidents we have all heard about recently,” said Nichola Moore, the event organiser.
“We want them to enjoy their independence and freedom and be able to travel safely and confidently on our roads. We hope that by highlighting the risks facing women drivers, it will provide them with a wealth of information and practical advice,” she added.
In addition to car safety, the psychology behind car confidence will be explored by ex- Police Chief Inspector and human behaviour specialist Vic Botterill, with practical advice on defensive driving and combating the hazards of modern driving, including so-called ‘road rage’, which members of the audience can take part in. Advice will also be given about the frequent causes of aggressive, dangerous driving and ‘motorway madness’, with the audience encouraged to share their own experiences and how they could have been avoided with him.
But the course is not designed to encourage motorists to take the law into their own hands by becoming attackers themselves, emphasised Nichola: “Our Women in Gear evening is free to anyone who wishes to steer clear of trouble or be able to deal with their own, personal ‘road rage’. Judging from the response we are already receiving, we are expecting a lot of interest in this course,” she explained.
As part of the course, volunteers from the audience will be invited to take part in role-play by a personal self-protection specialist and learn how to beat the bullies behind the wheel and, if diplomacy fails, how to use everyday objects normally found about one’s person for personal self-protection and to ensure a rapid escape from a would-be attacker.
Not many vehicles are equipped with full tool-kits nowadays, so Sturgess’s service technicians will also offer visitors practical hands-on advice on dealing with roadside emergencies, routine car maintenance and car safety checks. The evening is free and all will be encouraged to roll up their sleeves and ‘have a go’ themselves under the guidance of experienced motor technicians, promises the dealership. Gloves will be provided.
“A Women in Gear evening is a realistic approach to combating road danger because it takes place over one evening, is fun, and tackles a whole range of possible situations.
But hurry, because places are bound to go fast,” advised Nichola.
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Friday, August 28th, 2009
Italian sporting car manufacturer, Alfa Romeo, has just introduced two brand new Euro 5-compliant engines for the Alfa 159 range – the 1750 TBi and the 2.0 JTDM. Both the Alfa Brera and Alfa Spider will benefit from these powerplants later in the year.
These two new high technology petrol and diesel engines will complement existing petrol and diesel units in the 159 range and introduce a combination of increased torque and power with lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency.
1750i 200 BHP TURBO PETROL ENGINE
The new Alfa Romeo 159 1750 TBi embodies a long heritage of motoring excellence, taking its name from its successful saloon ancestor, the Alfa 1750 Berlina. Alfa Romeo’s new, lightweight, variable valve timing, direct injection turbocharged engine develops an impressive 200 bhp along with 320 Nm of torque to bring new levels of drivability to the Alfa 159 range.
Perfectly complementing the current engine line-up, the new 16-valve, twin overhead camshaft 1742 cc petrol unit brings keen fuel efficiency to Alfa 159 Saloon and Sportwagon versions, along with lower CO2 emissions, down to 189 g/km – resulting in a six-band drop in company car BIK taxation compared to the older 2.2 JTS engine.
Significantly, through a process known as ‘scavenging’, the maximum torque of Alfa Romeo’s new petrol engine is achieved at just 1400 rpm – a little more than tickover speed – with maximum power reached between 4750 and 5500 rpm.
From a standstill, the 1750 TBi Alfa 159 Saloon can reach the 0 – 62 mph benchmark in 7.7 seconds, before topping out at 147 mph. However it is the flexibility of the in-gear acceleration that sets the engine apart from its competitors; with 25 – 62 mph in fifth gear achievable in 11.5 seconds and 37 – 62 mph in sixth gear reached in just 8.9 seconds – this translates, in real world driving, to a more sporting driver experience consistent with a ‘flat’ torque curve and a constant delivery of power – perfect for confident overtaking and long distance driving.
In addition, the 1750 TBi version includes a mileage extension to 21,000 miles between routine maintenance intervals.
2.0 JTDM 170 BHP DIESEL ENGINE
Given that Alfa Romeo introduced common rail diesel technology more than 10 years ago on the Alfa 156, it should come as little surprise that it has now developed a new diesel unit that brings higher power and torque values, yet, at the same time, increases fuel efficiency and lowers CO2 emissions.
Alfa’s new 2.0 JTDM powerplant develops 170 bhp available at just 4,000 rpm, and its advanced multijet technology means that this new 2.0 JTDM unit delivers its maximum torque of 360 Nm between just 1750 rpm and 2500 rpm.
Significantly, the new 2.0 JTDM powered Alfa 159 covers the 0 – 62 mph sprint in just 8.8 seconds – less than one second off the pace of the more powerful 2.4 JTDM engine, on its way to a top speed of 136 mph.
CO2 emissions have been reduced to just 142 g/km.
NEW TRIM LEVELS FOR ALFA 159 RANGE
To coincide with the launch of these new engines, Alfa Romeo has introduced a new range structure which now features five trim levels – Turismo, Turismo Sport, Elegante, Lusso and TI.
First of the two new trim levels, Turismo Sport offers drivers sporty upgrades including 17” sport alloy wheels, Blue&Me, sports seat cloth, sports leather steering wheel with remote audio controls and gear knob, and sports dials.
Alfa Romeo 159 car leasing deals
Alfa Romeo 159 new and nearly new prices
Alfa Romeo 159 road tests
The new Elegante trim adds additional style to the already highly specified Turismo equipment, including rear parking sensors, visibility pack and luxury Alfatex interior.
Each high specification trim level brings added choice in terms of comfort, refinement, technology and aesthetics.
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Thursday, August 6th, 2009
Everything about this month’s Car Star is loveable. Although it has been heavily advertised and widely welcomed by the motoring press, there still seems to be a lack of them yet hitting the road, and it is for this reason that the Alfa Romeo MiTo is August’s Car Star.
Introduced in January, the MiTo is described as a ‘sporty compact’ which makes me think of a small make-up kit for use in the gym after a sweaty work-out. Not particularly helpful description, as I immediately want to put it in the handbags of ladies who lunch and play tennis on Tuesday afternoons. So what is the MiTo really? Well, true enough it share much of the technology with the mainstream Fiat Punto but this it is no ordinary supermini. As Alfa Romeo says, the MiTo has all the characteristics you associate with the marque on a smaller scale than usual, so expect something much more sophisticated than a mainstream city car.
In fact the MiTo is Alfa’s first venture into the ‘sporty compact’ niche since the 1970s when the widely loved Alfasud graced our streets.
So what is it that makes the new MiTo a worthy follow-on to the Alfasud? Well, the MiTo has the style, performance and luxury of some of Alfa’s bigger models without the price tag. For the style-conscious consumer, the MiTo offers the simple pleasure of a three door hatchback with performance and styling of something much more. A wide, low stance, sculptured V-shaped bonnet, tear-drop headlamps and flared wheel arches, the MiTo is every bit the sports car in appearance. And with Q2 electronic driving aids, and ‘DNA’ sports switch with three modes ‘Dynamic’, ‘Normal’ and ‘All Weather’ the MiTo boasts the ability to adapt to driving conditions for added performance. The dynamic mode is a great feature, in it the throttle response is quicker, steering sharper and handling more direct to make full use of the engine.
In fact everything about the MiTo is geared to offer the sensation of driving a real sports car. The ride and handling is given the sport treatment through Alfa’s choice of suspension which uses MacPherson layout at the front and a semi-independent layout torsion beam at the rear. Team this with a wide chassis, stiff springs, large wheel rims and dual-acting telescopic hydraulic dampers and the effect is complete. There are three trims available and a range of five engines to choose from, the top spec Veloce teamed with the most powerful 1.4 TB 155 bhp turbopetrol engine offers the best all round package in my opinion, with keen performance, a top speed of 134mph and 0-60 in 8 seconds dead. Torque is decent too with this engine, offering 230Nm at 3000rpm with maximum power of 5000rpm. But even some of the lower grades still pull nicely, with four of the five engine options teamed with six-speed gearboxes, even the entry-level 95bhp 1.4 16v Turismo can achieve 0-60 in 11.2 seconds and a top speed of 112mph.
Inside the quality feel to the MiTo is continued with carbon-fibre look dashboard and central console with a satin finish and comfortable yet smart upholstery. On some models there is even chrome kick plates and front armrest for a more upmarket feel.
MiTo leasing prices
MiTo new and nearly new prices
With the range starting at just £10,745 and rising to £14,745 for the top spec Veloce, the MiTo is aimed at the same image-conscience, youthful market as the Mini. Personally as the MiTo is more fun and offers greater space, I would plum for it over the Mini anyday.
What do you think, don’t forget to leave a comment below or submit a review of the MiTo on the RoadTestReports.co.uk homepage.
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Monday, May 18th, 2009
Some current two-seater roadsters are so over-styled and fussy-looking that they almost seem dated already. In ten or twenty years we’ll look back and say, ‘Did I really drive that?’. Not so the Alfa Spider which, although essentially a soft-top Brera, will look gorgeous for decades to come.
Alfa Romeo Spider lease prices
Alfa Romeo new and nearly new car prices
For maximum fuel economy the 41.5mpg (combined) of the 2.4 JTD (diesel) scores highly (see separate test). The £26,895 2.2 petrol model manages 30.7mpg, while the V6 Q4 is somewhat juicier at 24.6mpg. The £32,395 V6 model offers all the equipment you’d expect, including climate control and leather upholstery, although it’s an extra £500 for metallic paint and a substantial £1,615 for Alfa’s satnav. The Spider also boasts a long list of hi-tech audio and communications options, but such details seem insignificant when you’re bombing along in a sweet-sounding, Pininfarina-styled roadster on a warm Summer’s evening.
Read the full Alfa Romeo 2.2 JTS & 3.2 JTS V6 Q4 road tests
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Wednesday, May 6th, 2009
For the first time since the fall of the Berlin Wall, when a litre of petrol cost us 38p and Bobby McFerrin sang ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy’, it’s possible to own a brand new Alfa Romeo for less than £9,000.
News that the Government is incentivising drivers of old cars (10 years and older) to trade up to a brand new model with a £1,000 windfall matched by the manufacturer, means eligible motorists can own a stunning Alfa MiTo 1.4 16V Turismo for just £8,995 (rated at four stars on RoadTestReports.co.uk).
The last Alfa Romeo to be sold in the UK for under £9,000 was the five door Alfa 33 in 1989.
Twenty years on, Alfa Romeo’s head-turning Alfa MiTo range boasts innovative technology and safety features that didn’t even exist when the Alfa 33 was launched.
Unlike any other compact car in the sector, every Alfa MiTo features as standard equipment: air conditioning, electric power-assisted steering, alarm and immobiliser, electric windows, electrically adjustable door mirrors, LED rear lights, seven airbags, VDC (ABS + ASR + Brake Assist) with Hill Holder, and car radio with audio CD and MP3 reader.
For an entertaining and rewarding driver experience, the iconic sporting Italian manufacturer has also bestowed the Alfa MiTo range with an electronic Q2 system that simulates the presence of a limited slip differential, and supercar technology in the form of a DNA (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) switch that alters the driving characteristics of the car for different driving situations.
On selected models, Alfa Romeo is offering up to £3,000 in addition to the Government’s incentive. For the best deals across the Alfa Romeo range visit SaveMoneyOnCars.co.uk.
Search ContractHireAndLeasing.com for the best car leasing deals across the Alfa Romeo range.
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Tuesday, January 6th, 2009
Fancy something new for 2009? Why not consider Alfa Romeo’s latest model, the MiTo. Due to launch in the UK on the 24 January 2009, order are already being taken.
The MiTo offers cheeky good looks and small car dimensions without skimping on the sportscar styling. As standard, the MiTo offers a special electronic control system DNA (Dynamic, Normal, All Weather), which adjusts the response of the car depending on driving style and conditions along with LED rear lights.
Together with an eye-catching price of £10,975 for the entry level Alfa MiTo 1.4 16V 95BHP Turismo, comes news that industry experts, CAP, expect the Alfa MiTo 1.3 JTDM Veloce to retain a massive 47 per cent of its value after three years and 60,000 miles – the second highest in its segment. So the new MiTo is set to appeal to heads as well as hearts.
Be the first to review the MiTo on RoadTestReports.co.uk by submitting your review here.
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Tuesday, December 23rd, 2008
A 1955 4.4litre Ferrari 121 LM Spyder Corsa, racing two seater, made the top price at Bonhams Gstaad Sale on December 20th, at CHF 3.9m (£2.35m), achieving a new auction record for this model.
The car in question. Lot 205, came from the late Antoine Midy Collection in France and was bought post sale by a fellow European car collector.
James Knight, Head of Bonhams International Motor Car Department said: “Although the car just failed to sell under the hammer at the Palace Hotel in Gstaad, the interest expressed pre-sale remained and we have had a happy outcome following the sale.”
Bonhams hosted their annual Ferrari and other prestigious Italian marques auction sale at the magnificent Palace Hotel in the Swiss ski resort of Gstaad where clients and collectors attended from all over the world.
In the packed saleroom (at full occupancy), collectors saw a lower than average sell though rate but for those motorcars that sold, healthy prices were achieved. The 1967 Ferrari 275GTB/4 Berlinetta at CHF1,000,000, (£696,060) 1933 Alfa Romeo 6C-1750 Cabriolet by Castagna at CHF398,000 (£241,248), 1965 Ferrari 275GTS Convertible at CHF623,168 (£377,677), and the 1961 Maserati 3500GT Vignale Convertible at CHF349,168 (£211,616) being notable highlights. Automobilia continued to surprise with Lot 58, original documents relating to the Le Mans GT winning Ferrari 250GTO selling for CHF11,500 (£6,969).
James Knight, who was the auctioneer at the sale commented, ‘We were obviously touched by the instability of the current economic climate but I feel other factors came into play as well. The market is witnessing an element of re-alignment for some models, such as Daytonas and Boxers and the weakness of particular currencies inhibited some participation. This naturally meant selective bidding that affected selling percentages. However, the cars we sold made, in my view, good money. The 275GTB/4 and 3500GT Vignale Spyder at the equivalent of £605,000 and £212,000 respectively were tremendous results. Having now sold a number of other cars since the auction we are very pleased with the outcome.”
‘We look forward to 2009 and our first sale of the year at Retromobile in Paris next February where some exceptional motor cars are consigned.”
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