After we got our first taste of Officine Fioravanti’s gated manual Alfa Romeo 8CM earlier this year, there was only one question on our minds: when will this dream machine be available to the public? Well, following a near 2,000km road trip from Coldrerio, Switzerland, to Marbella, Spain, Officine Fioravanti are happily concluding testing on their modifications to Alfa Romeo’s most beautiful early-2000s creation.
Far more than just a manual conversion, Officine Fioravanti have made extensive changes to transform the 8C, including new electronically-adjustable Öhlins suspension and a carbon ceramic brake setup, helping the 8CM to conquer the challenging roads of the French Riviera and Andalusia. The interior has been spruced up with Officine Fioravanti’s FIA-approved carbon fibre monocoque seats, developed in collaboration with Laboratori Meccanica Torino, known as LMT, while there are plenty of subtle design hints to show this isn't a standard 8C, including bespoke wheels.
However, the centrepiece is undoubtedly the new manual gearbox, featuring exposed linkages and a gorgeous wooden gearknob inlayed with Officine Fioravanti’s logo. Then there’s that extra pedal, designed to mimic the standard 8C’s brake pedal for a cohesive look. All these upgrades were also not lost on the residents of Monte Carlo, who couldn’t help but stare as the 8CM made its way through the principality’s iconic streets before taking on the wilder roads of Southern Spain. The Officine Fioravanti team worked tirelessly on the electronic integration of the manual conversion, ensuring skilled drivers are rewarded at the wheel of the 8CM. The team were finally able to fully appreciate their hard work on the Ascari circuit, which revealed just how transformative the more aggressive suspension setup, improved brakes, and sharper gearbox and steering were on the 8CM's handling.
After arriving at the final destination of Marbella, Officine Fioravanti’s founder, Tusco Cavalli, was more than happy to put his seal of approval on the car, which was now 70kg lighter following the conversion and provided even better fuel efficiency during the journey. We have to commend Mr. Cavalli on giving the 8C the driving experience promised by its noise and looks, finally cementing it in the history books as not just a beautiful design, but a true joy to drive too. So, if you’re looking to give your 8C the Officine Fioravanti treatment — and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t — then don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team!
Photos by Federico Bajetti
