Alpine A110 gets another performance version

Alpine has officially introduced the new ‘S’ version of its mid-engine A110 sports coupe. The vehicle will make a live appearance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans this weekend.

The main feature of the Alpine A110 S comes in the form of improved suspension. Compared to the main series, the S has springs that are 1.5 times as stiff and anti-roll bars that are twice as stiff. The road clearance is 10 mm (0.4 inches) smaller, there are new shock absorbers, and the Michelin tires are 10 mm (0.4 inches) wider. Brembo brakes – a paid option in the main series – are included by default in the S trim.

While the car still comes powered by the same 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder, it takes advantage of an extra 0.4 bar (5.8 psi) of boost pressure. This leads to a performance increase from the standard 252 hp (188 kW) to 292 hp (218 kW). The peak torque remains static at 320 Nm (236 pound-feet), but is now available in the wider 2,000 – 6,400 RPM range (previously: 2,000 – 5,000 RPM).

On the outside, you will be able to tell the newcomer from the regular A110 by its new wheels and carbon body parts. The company also offers a carbon roof as an option. Interior changes are practically non-existent, unless you count bright orange stitching instead of blue.

Speaking of acceleration performance, the coupe now sprints 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.4 seconds (previously: 4.5 s) and maxes out at 260 km/h, or 162 mph (previously: 250 km/h, or 155 mph).

Sales begin this fall, with prices starting from €66,500. The standard (non-S) A110 costs €55,800.

Photos: Alpine