Alfa Romeo has a long tradition of making stylish, racy cars.
Founded in 1910 as A.L.F.A (Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili), the marque began at the Portello factory in Milan and, in the following year, entered a car in the Targa Florio, an open road endurance race.
In 1915 industrialist Nicola Romeo took over the company and three years later cars sold as Alfa Romeo.
The marque made its name on the track in the 1920s, '30s and '50s, and more recently the 156 saloon was named Europe's 1998 Car of the Year, with the 147 compact hatchback similarly honoured three years later.
The 2003 launch of the 8C Competizione put Alfa Romeo back in the supercar league, and recent designs such as the MiTo saloon have sold well.
Now represented in Hong Kong by Swire Motors, the marque has a strong following here, with two 'Alfisti' clubs, Alfistizone Hong Kong and the Alfa Romeo Owners' Club Hong Kong.