Alfa relaunches Ti moniker with 147

Alfa Romeo has relaunched one of its most venerable monikers with a special version of its 147 hatch. The 147 Ti reprises a badge that, over the years, has 'translated' much the same to afficiandos of the Italian marque as 'M' has to Beemer-philes or 'Alpine' to Renault ravers.

Says David Stone, General Manager for Alfa Romeo in Australia: "The Ti badge indicates an Alfa Romeo model with a more finely honed sporting edge, a version that offers an even stronger performance image and response."

Thus, claims the company, changes to the 147 Ti make it stand apart from the rest of the 147 range. In reality, changes are limited -- the Ti is based on the new three-door 147 and offers a choice of five-speed manual or Selespeed (sequential manual) gearboxs mated to Alfa's long-standing 110kW 2.0-litre Twin Spark DOHC four-cylinder engine.

Special Ti-logoed 17-inch wheels and 45-section tyres are fitted as well as a rear wing (sourced from the 147 GTA) and special Ti badging. Inside leather sports seats take pride of place plus. There are also upgrades to steering wheel, sill plates et al. No specific performance (engine or chassis) upgrades are listed, however.

In manual form, the Alfa Romeo 147 Ti has a recommended retail price of $39,990 -- $4000 more than the standard 147 three-door. The Selespeed version is priced at $42,990 -- the same premium up from $38,990.

What's Ti?
Says Alfa Oz's David Stone: "TI stands for Turismo Internazionale and for generations of Alfa Romeo owners it has meant a car aimed at young, enthusiastic drivers who want the assurance of maximum satisfaction and peak driving control at all times..."

Other Alfa Romeo models to carry the Ti badge include:
1950    1900 Ti
1953    1900 Ti Super
1957    Giulietta Ti
1963    Giulia Ti Super
1970    Giulia 1300 Ti
1977    Alfasud Ti
1980    Alfasud Ti 1.5 Quadrifoglio Verde
1982    Giulietta 2.0 Ti
1995    Alfa 146 Ti