The 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Touring Berlinetta plowing through the snow.
The Italian firm gradually turned away from circuits to focus on road events and in particular the most prestigious of the moment: the "Mille Miglia". The 8C 2900 was specially developed for this famous race.
On the strength of their successes in these races, Alfa Romeo, based on the winning car, began building a commercial model called the 8C 2900B.
Two versions are presented simultaneously: the 2800 mm short wheelbase (Corto) and a 3000 mm long wheelbase (Lungo). Their very high price would limit the distribution of these models. Only 30 units will be manufactured: 10 “lungo” and 20 “corto” chassis.
The 8C 2900B Lungo Touring Berlinetta as photographed here was manufactured from 1938. The engine is a 2,905 cc 8-cylinder in-line longitudinally installed at the front and developing 180 hp at 5,200 rpm equipped with a "supercharger". The tubular steel frame and the aluminum alloy bodywork are made using the “superleggera” technique developed by coachbuilder Touring. The car weighs 1.250 kg, with a maximum speed of 175 km/h.