The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C is a mid-engine, lightweight sports car that pays homage to Alfa Romeo's racing heritage. Available as a coupe or Spider (convertible), its model years were limited, making it somewhat exclusive. Key trims were essentially the standard 4C and the Spider. The original MSRP ranged from around $56,000 to $66,000. Its standout feature is its exotic styling and focus on driving purity, offering a raw, unfiltered driving experience unlike many modern sports cars.
The Good
The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C boasts exceptional performance thanks to its light weight and turbocharged engine. Its striking design is emotionally appealing. While comfort isn't a strong suit, it offers decent fuel efficiency for a sports car. For practical buyers, its relative exclusivity and potential for appreciation might be attractive. It delivers a thrilling, raw driving experience unmatched by many competitors.
The Bad
The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C has several weaknesses. Ride quality is harsh, and the interior is spartan. Reliability can be questionable, with reports of electrical and mechanical issues. The steering is unassisted, making it heavy at low speeds. The automatic transmission (dual-clutch) can be jerky. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the car's history and consider a pre-purchase inspection.
2016 Alfa Romeo 4C: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Only one engine was available: a 1.75-liter turbocharged inline-4.
- Horsepower: 237 hp
- Fuel Economy:
- EPA Estimated: 24 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
- 0–60 Times: Around 4.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable (Not designed for towing)
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base (Coupe & Spider):
- Lightweight composite body
- Manual cloth seats
- Flat-bottom steering wheel
- Aluminum pedals
- Basic audio system
- 17-inch front wheels, 18-inch rear wheels
- Performance tires
- Optional Features/Packages:
- Leather upholstery
- Upgraded audio system
- Parking sensors
- Cruise control
- Carbon fiber trim
- Different wheel designs
- Race suspension
- Spider (Convertible): Adds a removable cloth top (manual operation).
- Base (Coupe & Spider):
2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 4C |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Italy |
| Manufacturing City | MODENA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 960A1047 |
| Engine Size | 1.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $55,900 |
| Invoice Price | $53,857 |
| Delivery Charges | $1,595 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Have?
The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C is known for several frequently reported problems. Reliability is a major concern, with owners reporting issues with the electrical system, particularly sensors and wiring. The dual-clutch transmission can exhibit jerky behavior, especially at low speeds. Some owners have experienced engine issues, including turbocharger problems and oil leaks.
Recalls have been issued for issues such as fuel line problems and airbag malfunctions. Long-term reliability is a significant concern due to the complex systems and the car's Italian heritage, where maintenance requirements can be more frequent and specialized.
Specific issues reported for the 2016 model year include:
Recalls have been issued for issues such as fuel line problems and airbag malfunctions. Long-term reliability is a significant concern due to the complex systems and the car's Italian heritage, where maintenance requirements can be more frequent and specialized.
Specific issues reported for the 2016 model year include:
- Sensor Malfunctions: Affecting various systems, including engine management and safety features.
- Transmission Jerkiness: Noticeable during low-speed driving and gear changes.
- Electrical Gremlins: Intermittent problems with lights, infotainment, and other electrical components.
- Turbocharger Issues: Premature failure or reduced performance.
- Fuel Line Problems: Leading to potential leaks.
How long will the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C last?
Given the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C's focus on performance and its often-limited production run, average mileage tends to be lower compared to daily drivers. Many owners use them as weekend or track cars. Expect well-maintained examples to reach 75,000 to 100,000 miles with proper care.
Long-term durability is a concern due to its complex systems. Key weaknesses include potential for electrical issues, turbocharger problems, and wear on suspension components. Consistent maintenance, including fluid changes and addressing minor issues promptly, is crucial for maximizing its lifespan. The composite body should hold up well, but mechanical and electrical systems require careful attention.
Long-term durability is a concern due to its complex systems. Key weaknesses include potential for electrical issues, turbocharger problems, and wear on suspension components. Consistent maintenance, including fluid changes and addressing minor issues promptly, is crucial for maximizing its lifespan. The composite body should hold up well, but mechanical and electrical systems require careful attention.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C prioritizes driving experience over advanced technology. Built-in tech is minimal. Entertainment features include a basic audio system with available upgrades like a premium Alpine sound system. The infotainment system is rudimentary compared to modern standards, with limited functionality.
Driver-assistance features are scarce. It lacks common features like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Safety features include standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Parking sensors were available as an option.
Crash-test ratings for the Alfa Romeo 4C are limited. Due to its low production numbers and specialized design, it was not fully evaluated by major safety organizations like the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) or IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). Its lightweight composite body and basic safety systems provide a degree of protection, but it lacks the advanced safety technologies found in many contemporary vehicles.
Key Tech & Safety Features:
Driver-assistance features are scarce. It lacks common features like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Safety features include standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Parking sensors were available as an option.
Crash-test ratings for the Alfa Romeo 4C are limited. Due to its low production numbers and specialized design, it was not fully evaluated by major safety organizations like the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) or IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). Its lightweight composite body and basic safety systems provide a degree of protection, but it lacks the advanced safety technologies found in many contemporary vehicles.
Key Tech & Safety Features:
- Basic audio system (optional upgraded Alpine system)
- Airbags
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Electronic stability control (ESC)
- Available rear parking sensors
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Alfa Red
Black
Basalt Gray Metallic
Madreperla White Tri-Coat
Giallo Prototipo
Interior Colors
Black Leather
Red Leather
Tobacco Leather
2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C had an MSRP ranging from approximately $56,000 to $66,000, depending on the trim and options. Used market prices currently range from around $45,000 to $65,000, depending on condition, mileage, and history. Depreciation has been relatively slow due to its limited production and unique appeal.
Factors affecting resale value include:
Factors affecting resale value include:
- Condition (well-maintained examples command higher prices)
- Mileage (lower mileage is preferred)
- Options (desirable options like leather and upgraded audio can increase value)
- Service history (complete and documented maintenance is crucial)
- Accident history (clean history is essential)
2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Cost of Ownership
The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C is generally considered costly to own. Insurance premiums can be higher due to its sports car classification and potential repair costs. Fuel costs are reasonable, given its size and performance. However, maintenance and repair expenses can be significant due to specialized parts and labor. Long-term ownership requires diligent maintenance and preparedness for potential electrical or mechanical issues. It's not an economical choice, but rather a passion purchase.
2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline (Required)
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
24 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
34 miles/gallon
2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Safety Rating
NHTSA
2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Warranty
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Drivetrain
Original warranty
48 months / 50000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Roadside
Original warranty
48 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Insurance
Insurance for a 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C competes with sports cars like the Porsche Cayman, Lotus Elise (and later, the Evora), and Audi TT. In terms of performance, the 4C offers a raw, unfiltered driving experience that rivals the Lotus Elise but lags behind the Porsche Cayman's more refined handling. Feature-wise, the 4C is spartan compared to the Cayman and TT, lacking many modern amenities.
Reliability is a major drawback for the 4C, as both the Porsche and Audi are significantly more reliable. Price-wise, the 4C sits in a similar range as a used Cayman but offers less for the money in terms of features and reliability.
Alternatives:
Reliability is a major drawback for the 4C, as both the Porsche and Audi are significantly more reliable. Price-wise, the 4C sits in a similar range as a used Cayman but offers less for the money in terms of features and reliability.
Alternatives:
- Porsche Cayman: A better all-around sports car with superior handling, features, and reliability.
- Lotus Elise/Evora: Similar focus on lightweight performance, but with better reliability (Evora) or rawness (Elise).
- Audi TT: More refined and comfortable, with available all-wheel drive, but less focused on pure driving experience.
Ranks #317 Coupe
| 1 | 2023 Toyota GR Supra | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Lexus RC F | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2011 Honda CR-Z | (5.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Subaru BRZ | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW 4 Series | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class | (4.0★) |
| 8 | 2014 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A5 Cabriolet | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Nissan GT-R | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2015 Hyundai Veloster | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2008 Chevrolet Corvette | (5.0★) |
| 317 | 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C a Good Sedan?
The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C is ideal for enthusiasts who prioritize raw driving experience, unique styling, and exclusivity above all else. It's worth buying if you're willing to accept its compromises in comfort, reliability, and features.
Buying used is the more practical option, as depreciation has already occurred. Thoroughly inspect any potential purchase and seek a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic experienced with Alfa Romeos. Consider models with documented maintenance history and fewer modifications. Be prepared for higher maintenance costs and potential repairs. This is a passion purchase, not a practical one.
Buying used is the more practical option, as depreciation has already occurred. Thoroughly inspect any potential purchase and seek a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic experienced with Alfa Romeos. Consider models with documented maintenance history and fewer modifications. Be prepared for higher maintenance costs and potential repairs. This is a passion purchase, not a practical one.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.