Alpine A110 Review: A Great Sports Car

Instagram: / swisscarguymario
Alpine is a french brand that has produced sports cars from the mid 50s to the mid 90s. The cars were based on Renault mechanicals and had fiberglass bodies.
They were taken over by Renault in the early 70s and produced models until 1996.
The original A110 came out in the early 60s and was a successful rally car, winning the very first constructors' world championship in 1973.
Fast forward 45 years and we're driving the new Alpine A110. What is it? It's a small, light sports car with a 1.8l Turbo engine.
The car is about 4.2m in length and 1.8m in width, which for a sportscar in 2019 is tiny. However, this also means it's light. The car weighs under 1100kg empty. Coupled with the 252hp from the 1.8 Turbo makes for some impressive figures of 0-100kph in 4.5s and a top speed of 250kph.
The engine pulls well at low revs and has a very linear power delivery. Like most modern turbo engines it is almost too linear for my taste. But the predictability of a linear power delivery is probably preferable in a focused sports car such as this.
The power delivery is accompanied by a nice and raunchy note from the exhaust, which manages to add a great soundtrack without being obnoxious.
The steering is direct and gives good feedback - it's exactly what you would expect from such a sports car.
The brakes are good (the car is light) but opposed to most modern cars where the brakes are super sensitive you have to mash the pedal on the A110 if you want to brake hard. In spirited driving and on a track this will give you great amount of feel and control over the breaking force, but in normal driving it takes some getting used to.
The gearbox is a 7-speed dual clutch that is controlled by metal paddles behind the steering wheel (which stay in place) and it works perfectly. It's fast and smooth.
However, I feel that the second and especially 3rd gear are a bit long as it takes quite a long time to rev them out.
Handling. As you would expect, this little rocket handles absolutely great. Even though it's on relatively narrow tires for a sportscar the car has plenty of traction. In fact, in my opinion it has too much traction to have a bit of fun on normal roads. It is almost impossible to get the back out without provoking it really badly. This is too serious of a sportscar for that. The car was built to be as fast as possible and sliding about is not fast.
The car has 3 driving modes: Normal, Sport and Track. Personally, I find that even in Sport mode the traction control is too invasive, cutting power way too early and too harshly.
The best way to drive the A110 spiritedly is Track Mode. The traction control is still enabled but dialed way back. This way, you can have some fun and survive.
In Track mode, you have to use the paddles to shift as the car will not shift automatically. It also does not shift into a higher gear if you hit the limiter, which is good. Instead you get a helpful little beep telling you it's time to shift up.
So all in all the Alpine A110 is a great car to drive. It delivers on its lightweight sports car promises. So, what are the drawbacks?
Being french, you'd expect the build quality to not be that great. But it actually is. The car feels very well put together and very tight. Yes there are lots of hard plastic in the interior. At least some of them are in the exterior color. And plastic is light, which is this car's main USP. However,
There are no door pockets and there is no glove box. There is also no space between the seats.
In general this little car does not offer a lot of cargo space. It has a combined total of 200l of trunk space. That is divided into a trunk at the back and a frunk at the front. The one at the front is so shallow that on a hot day whatever you put in there will be well and truly baked. The rear trunk is less shallow than the frunk but it sits right behind the engine and above the exhaust, so stuff is going to get cooked in there year-round.
I know, these are small niggles for such a small car that is not primarily meant to be practical. But it's a bit of a shame because the car could easily be daily-driven as the suspension is firm but not uncomfortable and both the engine and gearbox are smooth and civilized.
The original A110 was designed by Giovanni Michelotti. The new version obviously was too. In my opinion they went a bit too far with the retro design. The car looks almost exactly what you would expect if the old car were to be put into production today. And it looks good, I love the flared wheel arches and that narrow back end. I just wish the front was a little more aggressive.
The A110 is a great car. I can only applaud Renault for bringing this to the market well knowing that such a niche sport car is probably not going to ever be profitable. Like it or not, we live in the age of the SUV, so having a pure sports car like the Alpine 110 being released is a welcome change.

[@jeffdoell5064]

It’s important to support Alpine and buy it if you’re in the market for this type of car. There are not enough cars like these on the market (RWD, efficient and affordable) and Renault should be rewarded for doing such a great job with their first attempt at a new Alpine.

[@govertvanamerongen5902]

I drove the alpine in a test. It is absolutely fantastic. Very very fast and handles like a go kart... love it!!

[@seb-didier5860]

Great video with a good and large analyse! Thanks! You're right, this car is amazing, as nimble as light and with a fabulous image of a pure sport car. Buy one except if you prefer german brands by pure snobbism.

[@simonjohnantony]

I rented one for 2 days, and fully agree with your comments and observations. Thank you. My Legende is being delivered next week 😀

[@jamesshives5679]

One of the best reviews of this car! A bit long, but I watched all of it and enjoyed every minute, well done, and well spoken. I have to say I actually enjoyed this more than the shorter reviews I have seen

[@captainianr]

Ordering mine in that colour next week after 2 test drives :)

[@swisscarguy]

Lucky man!

[@captainianr]

@CargoRay Thanks Ray - it's now due in 4 weeks!!!!!

[@goldencheese7247]

How are you liking it so far. Looking to pick up a used Legende next Feb.

[@captainianr]

Yeah. Really really good. Every journey still feels like a treat after 5 months:). Still feels very quick but starting to think about 300hp! We managed a 2 week holiday with all our stuff. You can get more in than you think. Especially if you’re not tall as there’s loads of room behind the seats.

[@goldencheese7247]

@@captainianr gonna upgrade mine to 300 right away. Good choice

[@JPB57]

What count in a real sport car is not the sbsolute power, this is the ratio weight power all in a light weight. For example 1000kg for 252hp will be much more performant in a road race than the same ratio: 1500 kg for 378 hp. And for that, no other car can meet the Alpine achievement in this market. Also, you say that Alpine is not cheap, but , when you go to Porsche and ask a 718 model with equivalent equipment, you have to put minimum 78 000 euros plus a big Ecolo MALUS. Finally at a period when everyone is worried about C02 emissions , the consumption of an Alpine can be as low as 6l per 100 km in a normal long ride (I have experienced 6,1 l/100km on a ride of 800 km). Just give me another sport car with the same qualities and so low fuel consumption, for sure not the porsches for consumption, not the 4C and elise for confort in an every day use. And concerning the design, I think that they are all beautiful: 718, 4C,elise, Alpine... it is a question of personal tast.

[@jamesburton2249]

I love the Alpine. Tried both. S had much better front end feel, at the cost of a harsher ride. If there were a soft top, or at least a sunroof, I would not even consider a Porsche. But this falls between a more practical Porsche (especially luggage space), and a more weekend fun Lotus Elise. Hence will be picking one or the other of those as I adjust my garage contents.

[@herbertthiebet211]

TOP-Video and presentation! And a dreamcar! My friend and i made together a testdrive - absolutely fun, hot sound and power. (Type S with 292 HP)

[@gregblack4581]

Never even heard of this car . From the U.S. great job .

[@haveaseatplease]

Beautiful colour! Also great review!

[@Pyrolino115]

Nice and informative review, thank you! I bought an Alpine six month ago and I can confirm all your analysis and remarks.

[@swisscarguy]

Great choice and super cool car!

[@LincolnRobinson]

Awesome video. So informative on what it's really like to live with. Well done! Really enjoyable

[@willpine7343]

One of the Smartest Cars there is

[@0bzen22]

GR86, MX5, A110, Cayman GT4. Fun for every budget. Mine is more GR86.

[@ceesklumper]

Thanks for this great review

[@Beckkerable]

Front ok, rest absolutely gorgeous? It's just vice versa. The front is the most unique and most attractive part of the Alpine 110!

[@samyb2834]

Too bad they don't sell this car in the USA. I would have buy this car instead of the 4C.

[@swisscarguy]

Interesting, is the 4c ownership experience that bad or do you just like the Alpine better?

[@TimsEnthusiastGarage]

Subscribed. Lovely channel my friend! I wish we got this car in the states. 2 years ago when I was at Goodwood I had a chance to experience one. I bought a 4C coupe but likely would have purchased one of these if it was an option.

[@Weasel4Fun]

I would choose this over competetion in a heartbeat.

[@productionplan6021]

Great review. I am sorely tempted to sell my belowed Ferrari 612 for one of these. You have also chosen what is for me the best colour Blue Abysse. The Ferrari by comparison is huge and clumsy and dare I say, feels a bit agricultural!

[@swisscarguy]

Why not get both? The 612 is a Gran Turismo, the Alpine a tiny sports car. I also feel that coming from a 612 you will be underwhelmed by the power in the Alpine. If you can find a dealer near you, go test drive one.

[@Didi78180x]

Great review. Your comments on radio controls are a bit weird : nothing is more ergonomical than these controls behind steering wheel !

[@mikemuller6871]

I agree. I have driven my Alpine for 4 months and I find the radio volume controls super convenient as you can mostly keep your hands on the steering wheel.

[@pilou827]

Effectivement, la bonne ergonomie de ces commandes RENAULT est reconnue. Je crois que la critique porte surtout sur le design, un peu "vieillot" et dénotant sur une A110 qui se veut un tant soit peu "raffinée" . Indeed, the good ergonomics of these RENAULT controls are recognized. I think the criticism is mainly about the design, a little "old-fashioned" and unsuitable on an A110 which wants to be a little bit "refined".

[@simonhurlimann908]

The brakes are indeed different to other cars. I would say they feel a bit like racecar brakes. Very hard first contact on the pedal and then you can adjust brake power very good but you need a bit of force (reminds me on Go-Kart brakes somehow). I personally it the way it is. I would even say it is a Highlight to me in this car.

[@goldencheese7247]

Merci für das detaillierte Video!

[@simonhurlimann908]

Mit den Fuchs-Felgen, nice!

[@JohnInSale]

Pity you didn’t get your Allen Keys out and lower the seat for you time with the car and then put it back into the middle setting for your hand back etc A two minute job that would’ve transformed your experience on a car you already seemed to love This car with the Lichfield Stage 1 tuning is practically perfect for another €1k 👍🏻

[@swisscarguy]

I actually tried. But the bolts were so firm that I started stripping them. And since it was a loaner car, I left it there. 🤷‍♂️

[@carl-johannilsson4882]

Great review...! One question, how tall are you? I’m 196 cm tall and wonder wether I could fit into this car or not..?

[@govertvanamerongen5902]

I am 197. I have driven the alpine. You will fit no problem...

[@swisscarguy]

Thanks, I'm only 185 cm and had the seat in the middle position. In the lowest position you should fit no problems since the car is surprisingly roomy for the passengers.

[@SpencerPlanton]

Just bought an Alpine A110S over a Porsche 718 GTS 4.0. The Porsche gearbox is too long (even the PDK) to enjoy the car’s engine. The only downside to an Alpine is storage… comparing performance, economy and cost the is no contest, the A110S wins. I will take the limited storage as a small price to pay. Would I have a Cayman 718 GT4? Yes, if I could buy one, but that would be another £27k and the Porsche stable is not very full of cars right now! The A110 is seriously cheaper that a GTS 4.0. Everyone forgets that basic driving aids and a PDK box cost £8k on a Porsche. Start adding some ‘nice’ touches and you can blow another £5k! No such issues with an Alpine.

[@simonhurlimann908]

Second gear problem with all the Porsche cars… if you want to drive among the speed limit (or not far above) the cars feel somehow lazy (because the gears are too long and the engines ask for RPM)… Fantastic sportscars still but thats a bit of a shame.

[@SpencerPlanton]

@@simonhurlimann908 They are great but you are right about that gearing...

[@gavinhowe5796]

I have an A110S on order. I would like your opinion on the revised chassis settings and engine mods..

[@swisscarguy]

Haven't driven it. It will certainly be a beast. My only worry would be whether the really good comfort has been compromised. Anyway, if the car is mostly a track toy for you, then the improved chassis will certainly outweigh the possible losses in comfort.

[@Weasel4Fun]

Does the S mean firmer suspension as well? Has this been tested by anyone? I too, would rather go for a normal if it means S will loose comfort. I checked Carfection video, it does say 15% firmer suspension.

[@Mexxx65]

400th Like! (late to the Alpeeeen party!)

[@pilou827]

Bon essai, bien réalisé. L'analyse est fine et je partage l'essentiel de ce qui est dit. Pas convaincu, en revanche, par l'avis donné sur le contrôle de trajectoire, donc le réglage "track" serait celui qui conviendrait le mieux à un usage ludique, sur route: Au-delà du fun qu'elle peut distiller, cette voiture se doit d'être rassurante, et elle ne s'adresse pas qu'à des pilotes avertis... Content, en tous cas, qu"elle vous ait plus. L'A 110 est aujourd'hui le modèle qui incarne le mieux la voiture de sport à la française.

[@MattiaPelle101]

Ottima recensione! Sarà possibile avere confronti con alcune auto della stessa categoria? Tipo per avere un confronto ! Complimenti per il canale, continua così :-)

[@ehemalssimehtt3739]

❤️ Alpine ❤️

[@jochem1986]

I wish Alfa had the option to do the same level of development for the 4C...

[@user-li1mj1jx2j]

I have an LC500, I think I bought the wrong car.

[@swisscarguy]

Nope, completely different cars. The LC500 is amazing in its own way. It's just bigger, more refined, way more powerful and that V8-sound... The Alpine is more agile and track-focused. Both great but very different.

[@spursman3998]

WOW!

[@DumbledoreMcCracken]

I would like this compared to an RCZ. Don't rush.

[@swisscarguy]

Really? A RCZ is front wheel drive and front engined. It handles well for what it is but the Alpine is on a different level. Except for the fact that both are french coupés they are completely different. I've once had the masochistic 'pleasure' to sit in the back of an RCZ for a short trip - let's say the rear seats have not been engineered to fit adults... at all.

[@michelmeyran1077]

@@swisscarguy Maybe one day Alpine will resurrect the "family" version, the A310 - I just LOVE the looks of the A310 GT.

[@faizjalal5600]

Never liked blue on any car. But this is something else

[@HiddenWen]

I wish they sold this car in China.

[@lensoprezole5322]

Hi, you move your hands too much to take bends. Put your left hand at nine and your right hand at three on the steering wheel and never move them at all unless the next bend is a hairpin. That's the way pro racing drivers do and it's very enjoyable on the road too. And Renault didn't want to make a halo car, the idea was given by someone close to Renault's CEO to make a new Alpine. Here is an interview in french where the full story is : kzbin.info/www/bejne/gajJeHaZeN-Jj8U Cheers.

[@Thealiengamer1]

Buchenegg?

[@Juergen_Mueller]

Unfortunately, again one of the countless car videos that show the author in the picture over 95% of the time. What should be interesting or even captivating about it? AutoTopNL shows how it works better, where I got to see the author for the first time after several weeks, and only in connection with the Corona exceptional situation. Disappointing, and just as boring as 1,000 others.

[@dicdicd1767]

Can you please stop saying "kph"?! It is not correct, it doesn't mean anything and it is horrible to hear! Come on you know it, did you learn kph at school, did you use it, did you write this wrong abbreviation?? The answer is clearly NO. So why are you saying it this way?! I am from the US and I'm telling you, you won't sound more English saying it this way.

[@swisscarguy]

No.

[@standandeliver8376]

Guess what...other countries exist! Not just the USA.