Alfa Romeo 75: The Italian Sedan That Broke the Rules and Still Amazes 40 Years Later

An icon of the 1980s that combined transaxle technology, the legendary Busso V6 engine, and unmistakable character. To this day, it’s a benchmark for true driving enthusiasts.

The last true Alfa Romeo: heritage, design, and soul

The Alfa Romeo 75, launched in 1985, was far more than just another sedan. It marked the 75th anniversary of the Italian brand and was, at the same time, the last rear-wheel-drive model developed entirely by Alfa before Fiat took over. Its design, penned by Ermanno Cressoni, embraced the sharp lines of the ’80s with a unique and cohesive identity. The interior was equally distinctive, from the blocky dashboard to the loop-shaped handbrake, everything about it spoke of bold individuality.

Transaxle technology and the Busso engine: a winning mechanical formula

What truly set the Alfa 75 apart was its mechanical layout. Alfa Romeo chose a transaxle configuration, placing the engine at the front and the gearbox and clutch at the rear axle, achieving an ideal 50:50 weight distribution, unheard of in its class. Combined with the De-Dion rear axle, torsion bar front suspension, and low center of gravity, it made this car a sports machine disguised as a sedan. The legendary 3.0-liter Busso V6 with 189 hp added character and performance, delivering one of the most beloved engine notes in automotive history.

Twin Spark: the perfect balance on the road

In 1987, Alfa introduced the 2.0 Twin Spark version, featuring two spark plugs per cylinder, delivering 145 hp and reaching a top speed of 205 km/h. It was widely regarded as the most balanced model in the range. Even today, driving one with over 245,000 km on the clock remains a surprisingly refined experience: the engine starts effortlessly, runs smoothly, and the chassis still offers a level of precision and comfort rare in modern cars of this age. The driving position is unmistakably Italian: flat steering wheel, low pedals, and a laid-back, sporty seating posture.

From tarmac to legend: motorsport and collectability

Throughout its production, over 388,000 units were built, many of which found their way onto race tracks. The Alfa 75 competed in the European Touring Car Championship and various rally events, leaving its mark across circuits. In 1987, Alfa developed the 75 Turbo Evoluzione for Group A homologation, with just 500 units produced, making it one of the most collectible Alfa Romeos ever. Even the radical Zagato SZ and RZ were built on the same technical platform, proving the versatility and potential of the chassis.

A legacy reborn in today’s Alfa Giulia

The spirit of the Alfa 75 didn’t end with the last unit in 1992. In 2016, Alfa Romeo launched the Giulia, a rear-wheel-drive sedan that revived the original philosophy of the 75: driving passion, refined engineering, and Italian elegance. While Alfa Romeo is now part of the Stellantis Group, a giant in the industry, it still preserves the soul of its golden years. The 75, with its bold mechanical choices and unapologetic personality, remains a symbol of what Alfa Romeo once stood for—and can still represent—for those who truly love driving.